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People waiting to sign on queue outside a social welfare office on Hanover Street in Cork yesterday

Taoiseach is accused of massaging dole figures

THE numbers signing on the live register climbed to another grim record last month as the unemployment rate hit a 13-year high.

Pressure on Cowen to reveal Bord Snip report

By Senan Molony and Aine Kerr

THE Government came under mounting pressure last night to publish the Bord Snip report on its delivery next week -- and to fast-track at least some of its recommendations.

O'Donoghue throws toys out of cot after tantrums and tirades

By Lise Hand

It came right out of the blue. "The House is suspended," barked the ceann comhairle as he shot out of his seat and exited the chamber at such a blinding speed that one expected to hear a sonic boom in his wake.

Job losses at two major firms deal big blow to manufacturing

By Conor Kane and Ralph Riegel

THE unemployment crisis deepened yesterday as two major employers announced a further 260 job losses.

Renewable energy company announces plan for 70 posts

By ANNE MARIE WALSH

THERE was a small ray of hope for the depressed jobs market yesterday when a renewable energy company announced over 70 new jobs.

College fees 'won't affect less well-off'

By Aine Kerr

THE Government's third-level fees proposals have been "family proofed" to ensure less well-off parents who cannot afford to pay will not be affected, Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe announced yesterday.

Construction body fears for 100,000

By Paul Melia

UP to 100,000 jobs could be lost in the construction industry over the next year unless the Government commits to building major public infrastructure projects, it was claimed yesterday.