The Federated Union of Government Employees has condemned the Government's public sector recruitment embargo. The union represents non clerical grades such as messengers and cleaners in the Civil Service.
The general secretary, Mr Michael Coffey, said that the embargo will lead to increased use of contractors, such as cleaners, haulage firms, couriers and security companies, which will provide jobs at lower wages and with poorer working conditions. It would also encourage people to accept part time casual employment as a permanent way of life.