Thursday, 8th October 2009 Latest News: Unemployment up in September ...more

Unemployment went up a further 5.6 per cent in September, following a similar rise in August.

According to data released yesterday by the Statistical Service, the number of registered unemployed rose to 17,618 at the end of September, giving a seasonally-adjusted official figure of 19,781.

The rises by sector or classification are: construction 2,022; retail 1,198; estate agency and business services 754; hotels and restaurants 696; processing 612; public administration 481; new arrivals in job market 844.

The latest figure is 7,299 higher compared to September 2008, a rise of 70.7 per cent.