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NI unemployment falls for 11th consecutive month | NI unemployment falls for 11th consecutive month |
(about 3 hours later) | |
The number of people claiming the dole in Northern Ireland has fallen for an 11th month in a row. | The number of people claiming the dole in Northern Ireland has fallen for an 11th month in a row. |
Figures for December show a drop of 600 in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits. The total now stands at 59,500. | Figures for December show a drop of 600 in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits. The total now stands at 59,500. |
The NI jobless rate remains unchanged at 7.3%. The UK average is now 7.1%. | The NI jobless rate remains unchanged at 7.3%. The UK average is now 7.1%. |
Other economic data published on Wednesday shows increased output in the services, production and construction sectors in NI. | |
'Positive signs' | 'Positive signs' |
Figures from the Index of Services showed an increase of 1.4% over the third quarter of last year, while the increase in the production sector output was 4.3%. | Figures from the Index of Services showed an increase of 1.4% over the third quarter of last year, while the increase in the production sector output was 4.3%. |
Northern Ireland's beleaguered construction sector grew by 2.4% but is still much smaller than it was as far back as 2005. | |
Economy minister Arlene Foster said: "We have consistently been seeing positive signs of growth in the local economy from a range of economic data, including from recent research by the Danske Bank which suggested that consumer confidence locally is now at a record high." | Economy minister Arlene Foster said: "We have consistently been seeing positive signs of growth in the local economy from a range of economic data, including from recent research by the Danske Bank which suggested that consumer confidence locally is now at a record high." |
"Undoubtedly this increase in consumer sentiment is linked to the wider improvement seen across the economy, with many people in employment now less apprehensive about their financial future." | "Undoubtedly this increase in consumer sentiment is linked to the wider improvement seen across the economy, with many people in employment now less apprehensive about their financial future." |
However, she added: "While economic optimism is on the rise this is not a time for complacency, and it remains as important as ever that we continue to build on the progress to date by expanding our existing markets and seeking opportunities overseas." | However, she added: "While economic optimism is on the rise this is not a time for complacency, and it remains as important as ever that we continue to build on the progress to date by expanding our existing markets and seeking opportunities overseas." |
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