MSP WELCOMES FALL IN YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT
Written by author on May 7, 2014
South of Scotland MSP Joan McAlpine has welcomed figures from Scotland’s chief Statistician published today (Wednesday) showing youth Unemployment has fallen by almost 1 per cent in the region.
The statistics on Local Area Labour Markets in Scotland were from the Annual Population Survey (APS) for January to December 2013.
The publication presents annual estimates for a wide range of labour market indicators across local authority areas in Scotland.
Dumfries and Galloway is among 20 local authorities which have seen increases in their employment rate over the last year.
These latest figures show that unemployment among young people has fallen from 8.2 per cent in 2012 to 7.3 per cent in 2013 – A decrease representing 600 jobs in the area.
Commenting Ms McAlpine said:
“It is very welcome news that 600 fewer young people in Dumfries and Galloway are out of work this year.
“The fact that this trend is reflected across the majority of local authority areas in Scotland is testament to the progress the Scottish Government is making by using the economic levers at their disposal to grow the economy and create jobs and opportunities for our young people.
“The appointment of Angela Constance – who made great progress as Scotland’s first ever dedicated Youth Employment minister – to the position of Cabinet Secretary for Training, Youth and Female Employment is great news and further evidence of the Scottish Government’s commitment to continue to drive down unemployment.” 
