Unemployment Figures Fall Between February And March

New figures have revealed official unemployment numbers have dropped 0.2% between February and March.

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) publication states the official unemployment rate has fallen from 6.6% to 6.4%, and from 8.3% compared with March last year.

With 3,300 fewer people unemployed in March compared to February, there were 39,800 fewer people unemployed last month compared with 12 months earlier.

In addition, unemployment among the 15-24 bracket has also fallen by 0.6% in the space of a month.

Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O'Connor welcomed the figures, stating it was "very gratifying" to see the unemployment rate for March drop.

"This further decrease in the monthly unemployment figures is great news." she said.

"Seeing the unemployment rate for March drop down to 6.4% from 6.6% last month, meaning there are 3,300 less people unemployed, is very gratifying.

"Being able to earn a livelihood is all important, allowing people to take charge of their future, to make plans and to have hope and optimism. I would like everyone to have that opportunity for self-determination and fulfilment through employment."

(LM/CD)