1,000 attend latest Frontline Alliance meeting

More than 1,000 people turned out in Cork last night to attend the latest regional meeting organised by the new group set up to oppose cutbacks in the public sector.

The 24/7 Frontline Alliance represents Gardai, prison officers, nurses, soldiers and other public servants who provide round-the-clock coverage.

The group says cuts proposed in the Bord Snip Nua report will lead to a reduction in the vital services its members provide to the public.

It also says that its members who are legally entitled to do so will take strike action if the Government presses ahead with the cuts.

The Defence Forces union PDFORRA reportedly had to pull out of last night's meeting after being ordered by the Government to break off contact with the new alliance.

Members of the Defence Forces and the Gardaí are not entitled to take industrial action.