As landlords and tenants heap criticism upon the Government for its latest cap on rent supplements, opposition party politicians have warned the payment could be cut again in this year’s budget if social welfare payments are to be preserved.

Social groups are slamming the measures contained in Budget 2011.

The outlook for the jobs market in 2004 is uncertain, according to the National Organisation of the Unemployed.

President Mary McAleese has urged the public not to play down the strength of Ireland’s economy.

The number of people without work in Ireland last month touched a 20-year low - but figures released today by the Central Statistics Office also highlighted the first effects of the foot-and-mouth crisis on employment.