17 December 2004
Welcome Christmas news on jobs in Ryedale says national survey
A national survey released this week shows that the amount of jobless in Ryedale has fallen massively in recent years and has been greeted as “welcome Christmas news” by Paul Blanchard, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Ryedale.
Published on 15th December, job market figures show that the amount of unemployed claimants in Ryedale fell from 1,229 in April 1997 to just 510 today – a reduction of some 719 (59%) from the unemployment queues of the Tory 1990s.
Figures report even better news for the area's young people and long-term unemployed. Long-term youth unemployment fell from 80 to 20 – a decrease of over three-quarters.
Over 25s long-term unemployment (jobseekers claiming benefits for 18 months or over) has almost been eradicated in Ryedale – falling from 265 to only 40 adults, a staggering 85% fall.
Paul said:
“This is truly welcome Christmas news for those who have got themselves back in to work. Government help through initiatives such as lifelong learning training, public services investment, and toughening up claims by making sure recipients are compelled to accept jobs, have played a massively important part in this.
“Solid financial management of the country means that we have more money to invest in public services, job creation-initiatives and training in Ryedale. But we cannot rest on our laurels. I won't be happy until everybody in Ryedale who needs a job can get one.
“Ryedale is more prosperous than I can remember at any time - and that is simply because so many people have a job these days.”
