asked the Taoiseach whether, further to a reply of 7th May, his attention has been drawn to the fact that the number of unemployed persons on the live register at 11th, 18th and 25th May continued to be some thousands in excess of the figure for the corresponding dates in 1962; and whether he has any comment to make on this unemployment situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Situation.
1.
The number of persons on the live register on 1st June was 3,423 in excess of the total for the corresponding date a year ago. This was not due to any deterioration in the employment position, which is indeed improving steadily. Notwithstanding the numbers of non-manual workers who recently surmounted the salary limit for compulsory social insurance, the number of social insurance stamps sold in the March quarter was the highest recorded in the last decade. The number of persons engaged in transportable goods industries in March was the highest recorded in a first Quarter at the Quarterly Industrial Production Inquiry. The population increased in 1962 and the net outward passenger balances by sea and air indicate that it is increasing again in 1963.
It is clear, therefore, that, having regard to the falling-off in emigration and the increase in population, the higher numbers at present on the live register do not reflect any disimprovement in the situation. In the Government's Second Programme for Economic Expansion, the general outline of which will be published within the next few weeks, increased employment will again be a major aim.
The Taoiseach is no doubt aware that there are in some places in the country unusual situations of unemployment. Would he say, apart from what might be done by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance, if there are any special plans he may have in mind to alleviate a serious situation of unemployment in a particular area?
I think the Deputy is supplied with the analysis of the live register which is published periodically, and reveals the situation, certainly so far as individual trades are concerned, if not as regards individual areas. If there were special problems in particular areas arising out of local circumstances, the Government would certainly do what they could about it, but I am not aware of any such case at the moment.
If I bring one such case to the notice of the Taoiseach, will he consider it?
Certainly.
The weather is not blamed this time.
Or the bus strike.
Prosperity is the word.