asked the Minister for Labour if his attention has been drawn to the fact that registered unemployment has fallen for 38 consecutive months in the United Kingdom; if he has any plans to meet the United Kingdom Secretary of State for Employment to learn at first hand the measures that they have taken and which are continuing to be successful notwithstanding their high inflation and high interest rates in recent months, in order that similar policies might be pursued here.
Written Answers. - Registered Unemployment.
21.
Registered unemployment in Ireland has fallen on a year-on-year basis for the last 22 months. Over the period, the general trend in unemployment has been downwards. As a result, the unemployment rate is now at its lowest level since November 1984.
There are basic differences between the United Kingdom and Irish economies and labour markets. The industrial structures of the two countries are very different. There are major differences in the balance of payment, exchange rate, inflation and interest rates positions in the two countries. In so far as the labour market is concerned our dependency rate is significantly higher and we experience high inflows into the workforce with this trend expected to continue. In the United Kingdom expectations are for a drop in the number of new entrants to the workforce.
The differences between the Irish and the United Kingdom economies and labour markets necessitate some differential between national policies.
The Irish Government's position is, of course, to create a sound economy which will result in worthwhile and lasting jobs and continued economic growth. Nevertheless, I keep in touch with developments in Britain through regular meetings with the UK Ministers (including those arising from our European Community commitments); the Labour Attache in London; and through the usual contacts between officials in my Department and the UK Department of Employment. I also, of course, keep abreast of developments in other EC member states through the various Community institutions. Finally, I should say that as unemployment is the top priority for the forthcoming Irish Presidency of the Council of Social Affairs Ministers, I shall have many opportunities to discuss this issue with the British Ministers and all other EC Ministers for Labour.