Continued Reduction in Youth Unemployment Rate must be A Priority for Budget 2017

Commenting on the release of the CSO Monthly Unemployment figures, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive Chambers Ireland said, “The significant drop in the youth unemployment rate, from 17% to 15.9%, is a welcome sign that opportunities for those starting out in the workforce are growing. In spite of terrific progress in increasing the overall employment rates over the past few years, the youth unemployment rate has remained stubbornly high. It is important that Budget 2017 capitalises on this positive development and that there is sufficient funding to implement the new Action Plan on Education. We believe there needs to be a particular focus on the expansion of apprenticeship programmes and further education and training.

By making the right interventions now, Government is investing in our future by preventing those young people currently on the live register from becoming long-term unemployed. Investing in increased opportunities for our young people is not only important for economic reasons, it is essential for future social cohesion of Ireland. We must ensure that all our citizens have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career. The Action Plan for Jobs has made a significant contribution towards reducing the national unemployment rate and the Action Plan for Jobs 2017 should have a specific focus on addressing youth employment.”   

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For further information contact Susan McDermott, Chambers Ireland on 01 400 4331, 086 6081605 or email susan.mcdermott@www.chambers.ie. 

Chambers Ireland Budget 2017 Submission can be viewed here

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