25 schemes announced in bid to tackle jobs crisis

The Government placed jobs at the centre of its budget speeches, announcing 25 schemes ranging from tax reliefs to targeting the black economy.

Finance Minister Micheal Noonan has earmarked €500m for the ‘build your own business’ package designed to help small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Mr Noonan is hoping the scheme will tempt some of the long-term unemployed into setting up their own businesses.