Cork jobless at `crisis' level

Unemployment on the north side of Cork had now reached crisis levels, a Cork deputy said. Ms Mairin Quill (PD), in an adjournment debate, quoted a survey by a UCC source showing unemployment ranging from 27 to 53 per cent in the area. Tens of thousands of people should not be condemned to a life of social exclusion, cut off from employment opportunities. "These shocking statistics call into question the official view that the economy is booming and that we are creating jobs in record numbers."

The Minister of State, Mr Pat Rabbitte, outlined a series of measures undertaken by the Government, including the start up of the Cork local employment service, which was expected to be fully operational by the end of May.