Number on live register falls again

THE number of people on the life register in Dundalk has fallen to its lowest level since the economic recovery began, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Statistics for the month of November show there are 4,815 now claiming unemployment benefits in Dundalk, just slightly higher than Drogheda which stands at 4,803.

Elsewhere in Louth there are 1,300 on the live register in Ardee, and the figure for the county as a whole now stands at 10,918.

The number of people in receipt of unemployment benefits in Dundalk has continually fallen over the last few years, as the economy has shown signs of improvement.

Dundalk TD Peter Fitzpatrick highlighted the improvement in the jobs scene in Louth. ‘I am delighted that the numbers in employment continues to rise. This has been as a result of the Action Plan for Jobs which has been hugely successful in reducing the numbers on the live register since its launch. Whilst the latest figures are very encouraging we must ensure that everybody benefits from the improving economy.’

He warned of the challenges that Dundalk in particular is facing.

‘We in Dundalk and the border counties face the added challenge of Brexit. There is no doubt that Brexit will be a concern for the border counties I firmly believe that it also offers many opportunities. The big challenge as far as I am concerned is that we are ready to take advantage of the opportunities that Brexit will offer.’