The most recent labour market figures for Northern Ireland show sustained strength in the face of tough economic circumstances. The figures show that over the year both payrolled employee numbers and earnings have increased, while employee jobs have also increased to a new series high. From the Labour Force Survey, the unemployment rate saw a decrease. However, the employment rate has also decreased, and the economic inactivity rate has increased.
The latest HMRC payroll data shows that payrolled employees increased by 0.2% over the month and increased by 1.3% over the year. Payrolled earning decreased by 0.1% over the month and were 6.3% higher than February 2024. Earnings from HMRC PAYE indicated that Northern Ireland employees had a median monthly pay of £2,295 in February 2025, a decrease of £2 over the month and an increase of £137 over the year. Balancing demands for increased pay with rising costs is an ongoing juggle for employers.
The latest Northern Ireland seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the period November to January 2025 was estimated from the Labour Force Survey at 1.5%. This was unchanged over the quarter and a decrease of 0.7% over the year. The employment rate was unchanged over the quarter and decreased by 0.5% over the year to 72.2%.
Employers in Northern Ireland are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the “Good Jobs” Employment Rights Bill consultation, as the employment law divergence between Great Britain and Northern Ireland grows. Employers should take the opportunity now to take stock on current contracts, policies and procedures to ensure they are fit for purpose in readiness for the inevitable employment law regulation.
Northern Ireland Labour Market Report
