Long-awaited plan met with a mixed reaction

There was mixed reaction to the Government’s long-awaited action plan on jobs, with groups welcoming proposals but claiming they were not backed up by funds.

Siptu, the country’s largest trade union, welcomed the partial credit guarantee and a micro finance fund for businesses that are aimed at sustaining existing companies and assisting start-up firms.

It also welcomed plans for improved co-ordination between departments and state agencies, including Enterprise Ireland and the IDA.