24/08/2016

Employment At Highest Since 2008

The number of people employed in Ireland has risen to more than two million for the first time since the end of 2008, the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) have revealed.

According to the latest report all regions of the State saw a fall in unemployment, while 12 out of 14 economic sectors saw a growth in employment, with the largest increases recorded in construction, manufacturing and accommodation and food service activities. 

Welcoming the figures, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O'Connor, said: "These figures today from the Central Statistics Office are very encouraging and continue to show that the numbers of people employed in full time jobs is increasing steadily and I am particularly pleased to see that all regions of the country are seeing employment growth.

"Having two million people now at work will also give a boost to the State as only a strong economy supporting people at work can pay for the services needed to create a fair society.

"My role as Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation is to ensure that this positive job growth continues and I am determined that we continue to put in place the right conditions for employment to grow across all counties in Ireland.''  

(MH/CD)

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