SDLP Ballyarnett candidate Rory Farrell
Statistics published today show that the Foyle constituency continues to have the highest rate of Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants throughout the North.
Over 3,400 people across the city are claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance.
This is 5.2% of Derry’s working age population, compared to the Northern Ireland average of 2.5%. The jobless total has increased by 70 since February 2018.
Mr Farrell said: “Unemployment is a major problem in our city. Over 3,400 people are claiming Jobseekers Allowance or Universal Credit because they don’t have a job.
“5.2% of our population are jobless, which is more than double the average across the North of 2.5%.
“To put it in context, if Derry had average unemployment there would be over 1,800 more people with jobs.
“Derry needs a City Deal to reverse this unemployment trend. Investment from Stormont and Westminster for university expansion and infrastructure projects is desperately required.
“And last week’s non-announcement by the British Chancellor of the Exchequer has done nothing to improve employment prospects in the North West.
“The SDLP will continue to press the British Government for funding to be released for a City Deal for Derry,” added Mr Farrell.
