There has been a slight improvement in payment periods to small and medium-sized enterprises in this country.

With the next General Election a matter of weeks away, political parties are being urged to avoid promises that will increase the cost of doing business.

The number of people signing on the Live Register climbed for the first time in more than two years last month, pointing towards slowing job creation.

The Government is being called on to introduce tougher legislation on late payments to businesses.