Increase in UA claims among young unemployed people

3 Jun 2005

The latest Live Register statistics released today shows that the seasonally adjusted figure rose by 2,600 between April and May 2005 yet an annual decrease of 11,100 was recorded in the year to May 2005. This is in contrast to the monthly reduction of 4,800 that was noted last month. The total figure now stands at 156,800.

‘It is worrying to see such a notable increase in the month and this trend could continue as we now enter the summer period and students leaving education or training are looking for employment’, said June Tinsley, Policy Officer, INOU. ‘Of particular concern to us is that all of the annual increase in UA claimants are amongst those aged 25 years and younger with the majority being young men. This means that the trend of young unemployed people remaining unemployed for longer is continuing.’

At present the national unemployed rate stands at 4.4% but amongst those who are under 25 the rate is over 10%. Clearly the current supports and social infrastructure to assist these young workers back into the labour market is insufficient and failing them. If Ireland’s economic growth is to continue, these young people should not be excluded from this prosperity again and should be given supports to enhance their employability through training, education and work placement along with increased investment in social infrastructure.