Labour calls for Dail debate on state of economy

The Labour Party has called on Finance Minister Charlie McCreevy to hold a debate on the state of the Irish economy on the first day of the new Dail session.

Party spokesman Tommy Broughan said the latest Live Register figures, coupled with the slowdown in Exchequer returns, is a sign of an impending recession.

The Live Register increased by 2,400 during July, while the Exchequer figures showed that the Government will have around £1bn less to spend in the upcoming budget than was initially planned.

Despite the recent spate of job losses, particularly in the IT sector, Tanaiste Mary Harney has said the outlook for future employment remains positive.