Harney denies announcing 2,600 'phantom' jobs to win seats

TÁNAISTE Mary Harney last night rejected fresh accusations of announcing 2,600 "phantom" jobs to win seats for the Government before the last general election.

The number of jobs promised in key marginal constituencies before the general election, but which since failed to materialise, rose to almost 2,500 yesterday, as only 130 of the flagged posts have actually been delivered.

Yesterday, Cardinal Healthcare officially informed the IDA that it will definitely not be proceeding with a €100 million information technology and healthcare facility in Longford town. Almost four years ago, the Tánaiste announced the arrival of the 1,300 jobs and hailed the massive investment as the largest ever jobs boost for the Midlands region.