Jobless increases to over 1,022

Figures released by the Labour Market show that the number of jobless in the Ballymoney Borough Council area in August has risen by 6.7% since this time last year - 64 more people unemployed.

The latest statistics show that there are currently 1,022 people out of work in the area - that’s 741 men and 281 women.

The unemployment figures for August also rose considerably compared to the month before (July), increasing by 36 person (3.7%).

Meanwhile in Moyle jobless figures also increased in August by 4.8% (28 people).

The statistics show that there are currently 614 people out of work in the area - that’s 446 men and 168 women.

The unemployment figures for August were again similar to those in June, decreasing by four (0.6%).

* There were 61 redundancies in Ballymoney during the year to August 31 2011, with non in Moyle.

Ballymoney has suffered from the economic downturn as much, if not more, than some other areas and many are encouraging the public representatives and others tasked with influence to try and bring manufacturing industry to the town - a tall order in the present climate.