16/05/2012

NI Unemployment Rate Down 0.5%

Figures released today for the period January - March 2012 show that the Northern Ireland unemployment rate was down 0.5 percentage points over the quarter at 6.7%.

Commenting on the figures, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: "It is positive to note the Northern Ireland labour market figures for the first quarter of 2012, which showed an increase in employment levels and a reduction in the unemployment rate from the last quarter.

"Our unemployment rate of 6.7% compares favourably to the equivalent rates for the UK (8.2%), European Union (10.2%) and Republic of Ireland (14.7%).

"However, more recent figures for April 2012 show an increase of 700 in the number of people claiming unemployment benefits. This demonstrates the continuing pressures within the UK, the Euro Zone and the wider global economy, pressures we cannot expect to remain immune from."

The Minister continued: "Throughout Northern Ireland there are many positive signs of businesses adapting to the challenging environment and increasingly looking beyond our traditional markets for export opportunities. Our long-term goal is to develop a strong, vibrant private sector that can compete internationally and which can provide prosperity and employment opportunities for all."

(CD/GK)

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