Tánaiste welcomes latest Unemployment Figure of 4.3% Government Initiatives make Substantial inroads in long-term unemployment - Harney

Tánaiste Mary Harney today (Tuesday 12th September 2000) welcomed the latest unemployment figures released by the CSO which show that the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.3% as compared to 5.7% at the same period last year.

The figures revealed in the latest Quarterly National Household Survey for the 2nd Quarter of 2000 also show that the long-term unemployment figure is now 1.6% down from 2.5% last year.

Speaking from China, where she is leading Ireland’s largest ever trade mission to Asia, the Tánaiste said "these latest figures are very good news particularly for the long-term unemployed. They are a clear indication that the Government’s Employment Action Plan, lifting the taxation burden on the lower paid and other initiatives are making substantial inroads into long-term unemployment. It is an imperative that all our people share in our economic success and I am determined that we continue to work to implement policies that will provide opportunities, particularly for the long term unemployed."

"The latest figures also show continued strong growth in the labour force with 80,000 additional people at work. They also confirm net immigration of 20,000 which is very positive news for our future economic competitiveness," the Tánaiste added.