News roundup: the top stories on Wednesday

November unemployment rate falls to 14.6%, Ireland slips in global corruption index and euro zone retail sales fall sharply in October.

The top stories at lunchtime on Wednesday
The top stories at lunchtime on Wednesday

**The main local and international news at lunchtime on Wednesday:**

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**Irish** November unemployment rate falls to 14.6 per cent.

**Services sector** activity growth at five-year high.

**Ireland** slips in global corruption index ranking.

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**Spain** bond sale falls short of top-end target.

**Euro zone** retail sales fall sharply in October.

**Euro zone** manufacturing, services contract for 10th month.

**Irish shares** firm ahead of Budget.

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**Cork firm** ...