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Sat 6th Jul 2013
Arlene Foster comments on the latest Labour Market Figures
Figures released today for the period April – June 2011 show that the Northern Ireland unemployment rate increased over the quarter to 7.3%.
More recent figures for July 2011 show that the number of unemployment benefit claimants increased by 600 from the previous month’s revised figure.
Commenting on the figures, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “The latest labour market indicators recorded a rise in unemployment levels throughout the UK. Given the level of uncertainty about the state of the global economy, the road to economic recovery was always going to be tough and the latest rise in unemployment highlights the challenge that we continue to face.
“However, it should be noted that the latest Northern Ireland unemployment rate remained below both the UK and European averages. In addition, the latest indicators also reported a fall in economic inactivity and a rise in employment levels in Northern Ireland.”
Arlene Foster added: “Our long-term goal has always been to develop a strong and vibrant private sector that can compete internationally and which can provide employment opportunities for the people of Northern Ireland. This aim remains unchanged throughout the global economic downturn.
“Our focus remains on providing whatever support and assistance we can to help stimulate private sector growth and create jobs in Northern Ireland. To that end, we will continue to encourage local businesses to pursue export opportunities where they exist and to develop the innovative products and services that will allow their business to flourish.”
Further information on the latest labour market figures is available in the Labour Market Statistical Press Release (see http://www.detini.gov.uk/deti-stats-index/stats-labour-market.htm).
