87,000 Jobs in 2005 - Recond level of growth
Government Chief Whip and Minister of State, Mr. Tom Kitt, T.D., today welcomed as highly impressive the latest CSO figures showing an employment increase of 87,000 or 4.7% in 2005. This is the highest annual rate of growth recorded since 1999 and 2000.
The Minister said: 'The employment growth figures alone provide a robust endorsement of the Government's pro-jobs policies. Overall, Ireland's unemployment rate now stands at only 4.4%, one of lowest in the EU."
The Minister welcomed the additional information on labour force participation by nationality, which shows that out of the estimated 253,500 foreign nationals aged over 15, more than 171,000 were in employment.
Minister Kitt concluded: 'The Irish economy continues to perform remarkably well and conditions remain favourable for a healthy labour market performance over the period ahead, notwithstanding some considerable uncertainty on the international scene. This labour market growth shows that there are good opportunities for both Irish and non-Irish workers. It is important, however, that a firm focus must continue to be fixed on maintaining and promoting competitiveness in order that the positive trends in labour market performance will continue."
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