Negotiators get reality check from finance experts

NEGOTIATORS trying to hammer out a Fine Gael/ Labour programme for government have been given a sharp reality check by the state’s top financial experts.

National Treasury Management Agency chiefs briefed the negotiating teams with a stark assessment of the country’s true financial position.

Labour deputy leader Joan Burton described the meeting as “sobering” and Fine Gael finance spokesman Michael Noonan expressed concern about the state of the situation which was laid out.