In Dublin this past Saturday, up to 120,000 Irish workers attended a peaceful demonstration to protest the Irish government’s handling of the economy.  The demonstration marched from Parnell Square to Merrion Square and was set up by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, also known as ICTU.  The march was lead by employees from SR Technic and Waterford Crystal, two companies that are facing serious problems in the Irish economic climate.

Over the last decade, Ireland has experienced growth on an unprecedented scale.  Several years ago, it became one of the richest nations in the European Union.  But a decline in the construction and housing markets has brought serious economic woes to Ireland.  Unemployment reached a 5.7 percent, a nine-year high, in 2008.  It is expected to rise to 6.6 percent next year.

The ICTU has posted 10 initiatives for the national recovery of Ireland on its website.  The Irish government responded to the plan, calling it “entirely consistent” with offical plans.

As part of its response, the government noted that “the measures which it is taking are difficult and, in some cases, painful” but “is also convinced, however, tat they are both necessary and fair.”

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