asked the Taoiseach if he will give the total number of persons at present unemployed expressed as a percentage of the working population.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Figures.
8.
The total number of persons on the Live Register on 29th January, 1965, was 61,123. The percentage unemployed is calculated by relating the number of currently insured persons on the Live Register, excluding those in agriculture, fishing and private domestic service, to the estimated corresponding currently insured population. This percentage at 15th January, 1965, the latest date available, was 6.7.
The Deputy is no doubt aware that the percentage unemployed fluctuates seasonally, and at this time of the year is usually considerably higher than at other times.
Could the Taoiseach state the percentage at a similar time last year?
On the 15th January, 1964, it was 6.8 per cent.
Then there is no improvement.
There is. It is now 6.7 per cent and it was 6.8 per cent.