Over 170 jobs are to go at two companies in Northern Ireland.
Manufacturers FG Wilson and Arntz Belting said they were releasing agency workers because of the economic downturn.
FG Wilson, which builds power-generating sets and has plants in Larne and Belfast, released around 160 agency workers.
A spokesman said: 'This is a result of a re-evaluation of market conditions and production levels.
'We regret this action is necessary, however, it is ultimately in the long-term interests of our business.
'FG Wilson's focus is on making decisions and taking actions that will best position the company for long-term success and profitable growth.'
Around 175 jobs hang in the balance in the New Year at fan belt company Arntz in Derry. The company is to let 13 agency staff go.
The Belfast Telegraph, which is part of the Independent News and Media group, has reopened its voluntary severance scheme and frozen pay rates as part of a restructuring programme.
A spokesman said: 'The unprecedented trading conditions in which we are currently operating also means that the annual salary review for 2009 will not go ahead.
'Whilst making every effort to minimise the impact of these decisions, they are unavoidable.
'Taking these steps now will put us in a much stronger position to meet the economic challenges of the months to come.'
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin MLA Francie Molloy warned up to 300 jobs were at risk because the Housing Executive was facing a cash crisis.
The social housing body blamed the decline of the property market and the funding shortfall signalled by Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.
The group said its budget has been hit after the potential value of property earmarked for sale had plummeted.
