THE deputy leader of Fianna Fail, Ms Mary O'Rourke, has rejected the Progressive Democrats election manifesto proposal to shed 25,000 jobs in the public service. She has also said her party and Labour have more in common on the unemployment issue than Fianna Fail has with its prospective partner in government.
Ms O'Rourke was speaking yesterday at a round table discussion on unemployment held by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, to mark "European Week of Action for Unemployment". She was responding to the general secretary of SIPTU, Mr Billy Attley, who said he found it extraordinary that Ms O'Rourke had "anything to do with a [Progressive Democrat] manifesto that comes down radically on the sides of those who have more than they need" and "attacks the socially deprived".
The election was coming down to an argument over whether those who have a lot should have more, through tax cuts at the expense of tackling unemployment and associated social problems, Mr Attley said. He asked Ms O'Rourke if she supported the proposal to "destroy 25,000 jobs in the public sector".
"I have no point of disagreement with you," Ms O'Rourke replied. "In fact I support the policies you evince. I am not in favour of cutting 25,000 jobs from any body."
Mary Harney's special advisor, Mr John Murray, was due to attend the seminar but sent his apologies citing pressure of other commitments.