Ulster Unionist Economy Spokesperson, Sandra Overend, has called for a renewed focus on job creation by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment following the latest unemployment figures contained within the Labour Force Survey.
The Mid Ulster MLA commented;
‘’Once again these figures make uncomfortable reading for the Northern Ireland economy. There are a few positives in that output from the service sector increased and less people are considered ‘economically inactive’ but these do not mask the reality that the unemployment rate is now above the UK average and the claimant count has risen again. A further 500 people have joined the dole queues throughout Northern Ireland and nearly 1 in 5 of our 18 -24 years olds are currently out of work and the percentage of people signing on in Northern Ireland in December is the second highest amongst the 12 UK regions.”
‘’Given that the UK as a whole experienced a fall in those claiming job seekers allowance and the number of people out of work fell to its lowest level in nearly two years, it is clear that Arlene Foster needs to look closely at the approach her Department is taking to job creation. Issues such as the future of the Green New Deal, a more ambitious export strategy and maximising our tourism and creative industries must all come under the microscope if we are to make best use of Northern Ireland’s economic potential and deliver jobs and hope for our people.’’