Inflation, soaring fuel prices and a biting recession as the numbers unemployed in Ireland climb.
Spiralling oil prices, high inflation and an international economic recession have had a profound effect on industry resulting in growing dole queues. Over a period of 18 months between 1979 and 1981 unemployment in Ireland increased by 46%.
Some of those who have joined the dole queues talk about their prospects and the lack of opportunities. For some emigration is the answer, while others struggle on surviving on a basic dole payment. What does the future hold for young school leavers in the context of growing unemployment and economic recession?
As one young man says about what having a job would mean,
You're only a liability when you're on the dole.
'Today Tonight' broadcast on 26 May 1981. The reporter is Mary McAleese.
