Live Register Figures Increase

11 Jan 2005

The latest Live Register figures released today show that the unadjusted figures increased by 6,850 between November and December 2004, while the adjusted figures show a monthly increase of 500. Both sets of figures record an annual decrease of 11,000 people. There are now 159,100 people claiming an unemployment payment.

The monthly increases were noted in all geographic regions, particularly in the South East which experienced a 7.3% increase. The monthly increase of 500 people were all women.

‘These figures are a disappointing start to 2005. These together with the announcement of 200 jobs lost in APW Enclosures in Tallaght and another 200 jobs lost as Bord na Mona closes its plant in Ballacorrick, Co. Mayo paint a grim picture,’ said June Tinsley, Policy Officer. ‘Despite Ireland having a low unemployment rate by European standards, the Government should not become complacent as it is little comfort for those trying to get a job. The ongoing competition from low-cost economies and the strength of the euro/weakness of dollar will continue to place pressure on Ireland to remain competitive throughout 2005.’