Workers get a lesson in how money talks

Taoiseach Enda Kenny did not rule out the possibility of a second referendum on the fiscal treaty if it was rejected the first time.

European trade unions said EU policies to create jobs had worsened working conditions and weakened the economy.

Eurozone finance ministers put off taking the final step to agree the second Greek bailout, but the next week will be vital as 90% of private investors need to agree to the bond-swap that will cut Greek debt by €109bn.

The Government has asked the European Commission to ensure confidential documents that go to member states remain confidential, following the leaking of a report on Ireland’s austerity programme.

EU leaders will call for rapid progress on a range of tax issues at their two-day summit that begins in Brussels today, and will also discuss how to increase youth employment.

Bigger budget cuts may be needed this year if growth continues to slow and the tax take drops further, the European Commission will warn today.

The EU raised €3bn for Ireland with very strong investor demand, while the IMF has approved its latest disbursement of €3.2bn under the bailout programme.

Ireland’s decision to hold a referendum was greeted with disbelief and dread in the EU among politicians and public servants, with the greatest fear being that it will open a Pandora’s box of other countries seeking a vote also.

A damning report on the fiscal treaty and its new rules intended to have eurozone countries run close to balanced budgets has been released by Davy Stockbrokers.