The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has published its latest official Quarterly National Household Survey. 
 
It shows that the unemployment rate has hit 8.9%, the lowest rate since the end of 2008, and down from a high of 15.1% in February 2012.

Approximately, 56,000 extra jobs were created in the past 12 months. 

The number of people in part-time employment fell in the past 12 months, meaning that the numbers in full-time employment actually increased by 59,400. Employment grew in 12 out of 14 economic sectors, with largest increases in construction and industry. 
 
Furthermore, the total number of people unemployed has moved below 200,000 for the first time since the end of 2008.
 
Speaking today, Minister for Employment, Jobs and Innovation, Richard Bruton said, "Today’s figures are further confirmation that the trend that has been underway since we launched our Action Plan for Jobs in 2012 continues to deepen and broaden across the country. This hasn’t happened by accident, and depends on Government having the policy mix right. 

"Significant milestones are hit, with the unmeployment rate dipping below 9% and the numbers of people unemployed going under 200,000 for the first time since 2008. And in virtually every area the indicators are positive – regions, long-term unemployed, part-time employment, sectors." 
 
Source: www.businessworld.ie