Accountants bearish on the economy

SEVEN out of 10 chartered accountants are worried about the Irish economy and half the profession believes things will get worse before they get better.

And yesterday Finance Minister, Charlie McCreevy warned the profession not to abuse tax incentive schemes as he will act quickly to close loopholes.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland surveyed 1,270 members about their concerns for the economy in general and their own sectors in particular.