Clerical and administrative staff are among the groups hardest hit by the cost of housing, which has risen much faster than incomes, according to a new report from the Nevin Economic Research Institute.

Fórsa is studying the detail of last week’s Labour Court recommendation regarding the nurses' dispute, and will also want to see the outcome of further talks on a proposed new nurses’ contract before fully assessing any implications for other civil and public service grades.

Legislation to extend unpaid parental leave from 18 to 26 weeks and increase the child’s qualifying age from eight to 12 years has again been backed by the Government after it appeared to have withdrawn support.

Two-thirds of Irish adults believe free childcare should be available to all, according to an annual study conducted by Early Childhood Ireland.

An evening surrounding the theme of women in media and politics will be hosted by Women On Air in Dublin on 6th March – two days before international women’s day.