19/08/2016

Sinn Féin 'Disappointed' At Latest Unemployment Figures

Sinn Féin have said that they are "disappointed" at the latest unemployment figures for July from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

The party's spokesperson on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Maurice Quinlivan, said: "According to the figures for July, 300,300 people are on the Live Register and of these, 141,981 have been unemployed for a year or more.

"Worryingly over 100,000 unemployed people listed their previous occupation as craft and related, and plant and machine operatives.

"The data shows the government could, if it so wished reduce this figure by introducing a number of key measures.   

"For example, it could address the prevalence of bogus self-employment in the construction industry and introduce legislation outlawing the practice.

"It could ensure robust social clauses are a key feature of all public procurement contracts.

"This would benefit workers, communities and the local economy and reduce reliance on the state for social transfers.   

"Unemployment remains a serious concern and the government must do more than provide income supports.

"Imaginative measures are required if we are to assist people's return to work, and also ensure that young people from working class communities participate in the labour market."

(MH/JP)

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