asked the Taoiseach whether the unemployment figure to date in 1971 shows an increase over the same period in 1970; whether there is likely to be an improvement in employment over 1971; and if he will give the latest total of unemployed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Statistics.
6.
The average weekly numbers on the live register in the period 1st January to 19th February, 1971 were 3,952 above those for the same period in 1970. The number on the live register on 19th February, 1971, the latest date for which the figures are available, was 70,337. Employment in the non-agricultural sector is expected to continue to increase during 1971.
Is there an increase in the unemployment figures?
There is a slight increase in the overall picture.
What, in the Parliamentary Secretary's mind, is a slight increase?
I have no idea. May I ask the Deputy a question?
I would not mind answering questions from the Parliamentary Secretary's seat. Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of this increased figure?
I just mentioned on television that the Deputy cannot wait to get over here.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary give me the figure?