A fund to help unemployed workers in the Limerick town of Rathkeale get back to work has crossed its first hurdle, with members of the European Parliament giving it their support. 

Hopes were fading last night for 169 jobs in Rathkeale as it emerged the company which took over costume jewellery maker, Andersen Ireland, has racked up losses in the region of €7m since December.

Limerick company Andersen Ireland is to go into voluntary liquidation - putting almost 170 jobs at risk.