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More than 22,000 now signing on for benefits in Limerick
THIRTY two people lost their jobs every working day in Limerick during January.
According to the latest figures released by the central statistics office, 22,010 people are now signing on for benefits in Limerick - with more than 15,600 of these in the city.
The figures show a rise of almost 700 month-on-month, following the end of manufacturing in Dell computers giving rise to 200 job losses, as well as a number of small scale job cuts, as tough trading conditions prevail.
The rise in unemployment here has forced Tanaiste Mary Coughlan to announce that the IDA's new decade-long strategy will place a particular focus on Limerick and its surrounds.
But Deputy Jan O'Sullivan has accused the government of "pussyfooting around" the jobs issue - and accused Minister Willie O'Dea of failing to deliver and "fight for the region".
She said: "It is hugely difficult for the families involved, who in many cases were never unemployed before, but are now grappling with delays in the social welfare system.
"I think what this emphasises is the importance of listening to what (Denis] Brosnan said about the task force, as well as the importance of the government's response to the recommendations. Some of these are very specific, which would deliver jobs. But we cannot wait any longer for them (the government] to pussy foot around and give vague general answers."
Deputy O'Sullivan said she was not confident of action, following Tanaiste Mary Coughlan's speech in the Dail where she highlighted her initial response to task force chairman Denis Brosnan's interim report.
"Having heard the Tanaiste, I am not confident at all of action. But there is a strong determination across the region to ensure we get action. " she said.
She also criticised Defence Minister O'Dea for allowing the Mid West to "fall behind other regions. Once we were one of the strongest regions, now we are one of the weakest. We need to look to the senior Minister to fight for this region.
He says there is work going on behind the scenes. But it is no good behind the scenes unless it is actually delivered upon," Deputy O'Sullivan said.
Meanwhile, Newcastle West's social welfare office has seen a small increase of 65 unemployed people, while the number of people signing on in Kilmallock has risen by 45 people.
Nationally, the jobless count stands at 436,936 - up by 13,341 month-on-month.
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Wednesday 08 February 2012
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