Both sides in the Tesco dispute have been asked to return to the Workplace Relations Commission next Monday.

14 hours of talks have concluded at the WRC, with the Commission saying it is not in a position to advance to negotiations at this stage.

The retailer and unions have been asked to consider their respective positions over the coming days and to return to the Commission on Monday 23rd May.

A statement released by the WRC has said: “The Commission has engaged with both parties over the last 14 hours over complex matters relating to the Tesco dispute.

“The Commission is exploring various options for the resolution of the dispute with both parties, but is not in a position to advance the negotiations at this stage.

“The Commission has requested both sides to consider their respective positions over the coming two days and to return to the Commission on Monday next, 23rd May 2016.

“In the interim period, and in order to create an atmosphere conducive to constructive negotiations on Monday next, the Commission requests that neither party engages in any activity by way of statement, comment or action that would exacerbate an already difficult situation.”