Simpson welcomes lower unemployment figures

The number of claimants is 114 lower than in September 2012.

The number of unemployed claimants in Upper Bann constituency in October 2012 was 3,955. This represents a rate of 7.7% of the economically active population aged 16 to 64, the 127th highest of the 650 UK constituencies.

Mr Simpson said: “This is not a time for complacency this figure is still higher on this time last year and I want to assure everyone throughout my constituency that will continue to do all in my power to strengthen the economy locally and create sustainable jobs.”

“Youth unemployment is particularly worrying and I have met with industry and local education leaders to try and address this problem. It is vital that when our young people leave education that they are equipped with the right skills to progress on to meaningful employment.”

“I want to commend our local businesses for their resilience through these tough economic times. They are the backbone of our economy and I fully support their efforts as they continue to provide jobs for local people and drive economic growth throughout the province.”