Survey: 1,000 solicitors on dole

THE economic downturn and the collapse of the construction sector has resulted in 1,000 solicitors being out of work.

A survey by the Dublin Solicitors Bar Association, with almost 3,500 members, found that almost 40% of law firms have made staff redundant and there are 1,000 unemployed solicitors as a result of the downturn.

The survey, conducted by an “independent agency” last month, also found that two thirds of solicitors have taken a pay cut of up to 50% as a result of the downturn in business.