The Department of Social Protection’s Annual Report for 2014 was published yesterday and the Tanaiste, Joan Burton says it shows significant progress had been made in helping jobseekers back to work during the year. 
 
The report showed that by the end of 2014, the number of people at work rose significantly to over 1.938 million, a year-on-year increase of + 1.5%, resulting in the highest level of employment recorded in five years.  2014 also saw the level of unemployment fall to 10.4%, representing a one-third fall from the 15.1% crisis peak.  
 
The Tanaiste said, "Today, as we publish this report, unemployment has fallen even further, to 9.9%, and it is essential that we increase the pace of this progress with full employment the ultimate goal. The progress made to date in building a jobs-led recovery is clear evidence that the Department’s Pathways to Work strategy is working."

Source: www.businessworld.ie