CORI slams Govt over 'unacceptable' social problems

The Conference of Religious of Ireland (CORI) has accused the Government of allowing "unacceptable" social problems to develop in this country.

In its annual socio-economic review, the group says new policies are urgently needed to tackle poverty, racism and discrimination.

CORI claims one fifth of people are living on the poverty line, despite Ireland's economic success in recent years.

It is calling on the Government to address the problem by increasing social welfare payments, providing more social housing and establishing better public services.