Fine Gael    Dublin Press Office    Press Release

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Unemployment serious problem for males aged over 25 in Clondalkin - Fitzgerald

FG General Election Candidate calls for initiative to provide local training opportunities and links with local businesses and employers

Clondalkin has the second highest level of unemployment in Dublin, according to figures obtained by Fine Gael General Election candidate for Dublin Mid West, Frances Fitzgerald.

“3554 were reported to be signing on to receive unemployment benefit in the Clondalkin area during the month of May – that figure is 545 more than last year, when 3009 signed on during the same time period.  Of that figure:

·          2215 were male

·          1339 were female

·          532 were males aged under 25

·          1683 were males aged over 25

·          371 were females aged under 25

·          968 were females aged over 25

“These figures are most disturbing – especially given the arrival of Wyeth Technologies, and 1200 jobs, to Grange Castle Business Park last year.  The issue of unemployment among males aged over 25 in particular must be addressed,” Ms. Fitzgerald commented.

“There is a tendency to fail to recognise that not every community and area is benefiting from the spoils of our Celtic Tiger.  These figures prove that some areas are still dealing with the side effects of unemployment – financial, social and psychological strain.

“An action plan for Clondalkin must be put in place with renewed vigour.  I am calling on Government parties to address this problem as a matter of urgency – specific initiatives need to be introduced to put in place training opportunities at local level, which would build links with local employers and businesses,” Ms. Fitzgerald stated.

ENDS