ESRI’s gloomy outlook may have a bright side

THE ESRI says we are about to experience a major slump in house prices.

Would this be the same ESRI that predicted a 16% fall in house prices in 2002, with a moderate rise during 2003. That report was released on September 28, 2001.

Their report issued on the same date this year also predicts job losses on a relatively large scale in the house-building sector.

This being the case, I should have no trouble securing the services of a plasterer and a bricklayer at reasonable cost. Because, at present, I can neither afford nor find a tradesman who is willing to get out of bed for anything less than a small fortune.

Roll on the hard times!

Niall Ginty

The Demesne

Killester

Dublin 5