Redundancy figures up a shocking 71%

5 Aug 2008

Today (Tuesday) the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment released the redundancy figures for July 2008. For the month itself the increase was 3,914, which is 71% up on July 2007. The figure for the period January to July 2008 is 20,392 which represents an increase of 36%. If this rise continues then redundancy figures are heading for an all time high and will be well into 30,000 by the end of the year. Given most economic commentators are predicting little or no employment growth in 2008 the forecasts for unemployment are looking bleak. These figures, shocking as they are, come as no surprise given the recent increases in the Live Register and what we know about the reality of the situation that people are now dealing with noted John Stewart, INOU Co-ordinator. The figures for August could equally be as bad depending on the level of return of building workers to their jobs after the traditional builders holiday.

The challenge facing the Government is how to ensure that people who are made redundant are supported in finding alternative employment and if required facilitated to develop their skills to make this transition.

 

For further information contact:

John Stewart, INOU Co-ordinator (01) 856 0088 / 086 160 2222