Trade unions are planning to hold a series of demonstrations and rallies around the country in February to call for a restructuring of Ireland's debt.

Unions have argued such a restructuring of debt would be a prerequisite for economic recovery and a necessary condition for the maintenance of social cohesion.

The executive of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions is to consider the proposal for the demonstrations next Wednesday. However it is expected to back the plan as it is supported by most of the large unions.

The general secretary of Congress David Begg said if the rallies were successful it would show there had been a shift in attitude among the public to say "we were promised some relief but this has not been forthcoming".

"If we do not manage the debt situation sacrifices we made would not be successful."