111.   To work off inventories and bring them more in line with demand, companies are laying off workers, reducing shifts to curb production and deeply discounting merchandise.

112.   Unions oppose the proposal because it would allow companies to lay off workers and increase work hours more easily.

113.   Unions are angry that the proposal would allow companies to lay off workers and increase work hours more easily.

114.   Unions oppose the new labor bill because it would allow companies to lay off workers and increase work hours more easily.

115.   While larger companies are also laying off workers as the economy slows, those hiring say they are surprised by the amount of talented workers without jobs.

116.   With extensive losses, frozen assets, and investments delayed, many companies are now laying off both local and foreign staff.

117.   The new law makes it easier for companies to lay off workers and extend working hours.

118.   Unions have organised mounting strikes against a law passed in virtual secrecy which they say makes it easier for companies to lay off workers and extend working hours.

119.   Many companies laid on free breakfasts to prevent mass absenteeism, although others decided to give their staff time off.

120.   Many companies laid on bacon sandwiches and croissants and hired big-screen televisions to tempt staff in, and some schools did likewise, but absenteeism still rose.