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Monthly unemployment rate now at 6.4%

Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor today welcomed the Monthly Unemployment figures for March published by the Central Statistics Office, showing that the official unemployment rate has fallen from 6.6% in February to 6.4% in March and from 8.3 % in March 2016.

The statistics also show:

  • · On a seasonally adjusted basis 3,300 fewer people were unemployed in March compared to February 
  • · 39,800 fewer people were unemployed in March compared with twelve months earlier 
  • · Unemployment among people aged between 15-24 has fallen by 0.6% in a month 

Commenting on today’s figures Minister Mitchell O’Connor said:

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