Job insecurities mar Spain's labour rebound

Madrid

ERIC Martin, a freelance property agent, also drives trucks and sometimes moonlights as a football referee. After more than 10 years of odd jobs, he has still not landed the one thing he really wants - a permanent contract, in any position.

The 31-year-old Spaniard, who has worked as a lifeguard, store assistant and postman, says that he cannot provide properly for his growing family as long as he does only temporary jobs. "It's not giving me the security my family needs," says Mr Martin, whose wife is expecting their second child.

As Spain emerges from a deep downturn, short-term job contracts like Mr …