Feel-bad factor puts Irish top of pessimistic league

THE bottom falling out of the economy has made the Irish the most pessimistic in Europe, causing them to lose confidence in the EU and its ability to help.

Rising prices and the cost of living have replaced crime as the number one problem facing householders, but health services are their second major concern.

The latest Eurobarometer survey looking at the attitudes and expectations of the EU’s half a billion population, does not auger well for the Government’s hopes of reversing the No vote on the Lisbon treaty next year.