More working in NI than ever, says figs

More people were employed in Northern Ireland last year than ever before, new figures released by the British government revealed today.

Regional Labour Market Statistics reveal that in December 2003, there were 672,150 employees in the North amounting to a net increase of 5,760 jobs over the year.

The seasonally adjusted unemployment figure for last month was 32,900 a fall of 600 over the month and 1800 down on the same period last year.

The North also recorded a seasonally adjusted figure of 43,000 jobless people between November 2003 to January.

The unemployment rate registered at 5.6%.

Northern Ireland Office Enterprise Minister Ian Pearson said the figures showed Northern Ireland’s economy was faring well despite recent job losses.

“Over the year unemployment has remained relatively constant and is now close to all time low levels,” the minister said.

“Given current market conditions in Europe and globally, the Northern Ireland economy is doing well.".

Last month the North suffered a setback with the announcements that the Japanese car components factory TK-ECC in Dundonald was to close, making 550 people unemployed.

The textiles industry was also hit by the news that Herdman’s Mills in Sion Mills, Co Tyrone was to close, shedding 270 jobs.

Despite this, Mr Pearson insisted employment potential in Northern Ireland was still strong, with the service sector performing particularly well with a rise of 9,810 jobs over the year.

“Competition is fierce and intensifying, however, and there is no room for complacency,” he said.

“Our businesses must be innovative in their attempts to develop new products and services and continue to seek new opportunities to develop high value added activities.

“This is the key to the success of the Northern Ireland economy.”