Dole queues lengthen slightly

The amount of claimants rose from 7.5 per cent of workers the previous month.

The amount of claimants dipped from 6.9 per cent to 6.8 per cent in Strabane whilst Limavady remained static at 6.8.

The figures are detailed in the latest labour market report published by Trade Minister Arlene Foster.

The report states: “The highest rates at June 2011 were in Derry (7.6 per cent), Belfast (7 per cent), Limavady (6.8 per cent) and Strabane (6.8 per cent).

“Those that showed the highest percentage increase in levels over the year to June 2011 were Ards (12.7 per cent), Lisburn (10.2 per cent) and Newry & Mourne (9.1 per cent).”

Meanwhile figures released for the period March - May 2011 show that the Northern Ireland unemployment rate decreased over the quarter to 7.1 per cent.

More recent figures for June 2011 show that the number of unemployment benefit claimants increased by 400 from the previous month’s revised figure.

Output from the Northern Ireland Production sector rose by 1 per cent during the same period, while the UK decreased by 0.1 per cent.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “The latest labour market indicators reported a slight fall in the Northern Ireland unemployment rate, with the rate remaining well below the average for the European Union.

“It was also encouraging to note the fall in economic inactivity levels during the latest quarter. High levels of economic inactivity have historically been an unenviable feature of the Northern Ireland labour market, so any improvement in our labour market participation rates is obviously a welcome step.

“The increased output in the Production sector over the quarter and the year is promising. Manufacturing is a key sector in Northern Ireland and there is evidence that it has been returning to growth with increased output in five out of the last six quarters.”

Arlene Foster added: “The latest figures confirm the continuing need to pursue a policy of accelerated growth in high value added sectors with all the benefits that brings in terms of the wider economy.

“The period of consultation on proposals to rebalance the Northern Ireland economy has now ended. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have made written submissions on this key issue.

“This will give us a sound basis on which to develop this policy initiative and work will continue over the summer to finalise proposals.”