Women account for large increase in LR figures

10 Aug 2004

The latest Live Register figures announced today show an increase of 8,549 in the unadjusted figures bringing the total to 177,501 while the seasonally adjusted figure rose by 2,900. In both instances, the increases are predominately made up of women claiming an unemployment payment. The monthly increase of 8,549 comprised increases of 7,061 females and 1,488 males.

‘It is a very worrying development that these LR figures are at the highest level since August 2003,’ said Mr Eric Conroy, General Secretary INOU. ‘Of particular concern is the stark gender balance that has been recorded. Many of these women would have been employed in the manufacturing companies that recently folded. The traditional and assembly line manufacturing industries are extremely vulnerable to increased competition which upon closure can leave communities devastated as seen recently in Donegal with the closure of Unifi in Letterkenny.

Again the INOU urge the Government to address the regional imbalances in economic development through the implementation of the National Spatial Strategy. Otherwise, these imbalances will continue to see towns and villages further isolated if large employers close and other employment opportunities and industries are available only in urban areas.