LFS unemployment rises to 5.9% in Q1

The unemployment rate reached 5.9% of the labour force in the first quarter of 2006, compared with 5.4% in the same quarter of 2005, according to the results of Labour Force Survey, which is carried out in accordance with European Union methodology.

The Statistical Service has stopped producing monthly registered unemployment rates.

The total number of employed persons in the first quarter amounted to 350,656 (males 196,426 and females 154,229) and the number of unemployed persons to 21,993 (males 11,061 and females 10,932).

The employment rate for persons aged 15-64 was 68.2% (males 77.7% and females 59.2%).

The total unemployment rate amounted to 5.9% of the labour force (males 5.3% and females 6.6%).

The Statistical Service noted that in the first quarter, unemployment is influenced by seasonal factors owing to the temporary closure of hotels, restaurants and other activities.

The unemployment rate was higher for young persons aged 15-24 which accounted for 12.0% of the labour force of the same age group but in comparison to 2005, a decrease in the unemployment rate for young persons was observed.