Long-term Unemployment

HC Deb 30 June 1999 vol 334 c180W

21. Mr. Healey

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she will make a statement on the current level of long-term unemployment in Northern Ireland. [87736]

Mr. Ingram

Latest estimates from the Labour Force Survey for the period February to April 1999 show that approximately 29,000 persons in Northern Ireland have been unemployed for one year or more. This represents 53 per cent. of the total unemployed and 3.9 per cent. of the workforce.

22. Jane Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures are being taken to tackle long-term unemployment in Northern Ireland. [87737]

Mr. McFall

New Deal 25+ will provide up to 30,000 developmental placements over 18 months for eligible long-term unemployed. From 1 August 1999, Worktrack will provide 2,100 places annually for those not eligible to join the various New Deals.

New Deal for young people seeks to prevent young people becoming long-term unemployed.