Vol. 456 No. 6
39 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he has prepared a position paper on unemployment; the submissions sought; the plans, if any, he has to address unemployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14393/95]
158 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he has satisfied himself with the progress in reducing the number of people unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14411/95]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 39 and 158 together.
The Government recognises that the latest Live Register figures underline the fact that unemployment remains a significant problem. However, the available indicators show that employment is growing substantially. Recently published figures show that industrial employment increased by 3.8 per cent in the 12 months to August 1995. Also, employment related Exchequer returns for the first three quarters of 1995, which were released last week, indicate that employment is growing. In addition, total notified redundancies between January and August 1995 are 19 per cent lower than the same period in 1994.
I am cognisant of the fact that many of the unemployed, and the long term unemployed in particular are not benefiting adequately from these positive trends. In that regard, I have already taken a number of measures aimed at assisting these particular groups. As I outlined in reply to Question No. 31 the local employment service is to commence in Tallaght and Limerick shortly and I will be approving plans for this service from other area partnerships in the coming weeks. I have also given approval to Kildare and Clare to be included in the new service as non-partnership areas.
