Local Fine Gael TD, Frances Fitzgerald, has welcomed this week’s CSO statistics confirming the continuing downward unemployment trend.
“March saw a further drop in unemployment with the national unemployment rate now standing at 6%. Locally, the figures signing on in the local area have also dropped. Between March 2017 and March 2018, there was a reduction of 16% in our local unemployment figures,” said Fitzgerald.
“Fine Gael launched the ‘Action Plan for Jobs’ in February 2012 – the height of the economic recession. Since then, the number of people signing on the live register locally has decreased by over 55% – that is more than 4000 people back in work in 6 years locally. This represents a major change in the lives of so many of our citizens and is a reflection of the efforts by Government to create a strong economy.
“Unemployment was arguably the worst consequence of our economic crisis as it caused terrible financial and personal stress in households across the country. Driving down unemployment is part of our overall goal to support families and strengthen communities right across the country.
“Over 300,000 jobs were lost and they couldn’t be replaced overnight. We are now thankfully moving towards full employment and we will ensure that all parts of Ireland can share in our prosperity and economic growth, including here in Clondalkin, Lucan, Newcastle, Palmerstown, Rathcoole, Brittas and Saggart.”
“Furthermore, the buoyant jobs market means that good jobs are being created, with over 23,000 people having moved from part time jobs into full time jobs in the last 12 months. The Government is committed to ensuring these positive trends continue, by safeguarding the gains in competitiveness made in recent years.
Fitzgerald concluded, “these are not just statistics – these are neighbours, friends, family members who are contributing to our local communities and economy as well as providing more money for investment in services.”
