Latest positive labour market figures mask underlying structural problems for unemployed

“These are very positive overall labour market figures, with strong growth in employment and rising wage levels in the private sector, especially in construction and hospitality.

However, the impact on unemployment levels has been almost non-existent, especially for the young, and this could be a warning sign that underlying structural problems are re-emerging.

An important priority for the new government must be to ensure that the unemployed are given more effective support to find work, otherwise employers will increasingly turn to other sources – including migrants – to fill the vacancies on offer.”