Long Term Youth Unemployment Worsens
--- Fears of Lost Generation rise
---Griffin: Government ‘seem incapable’ of tackling problem
Fears have been expressed that an entire swathe of young people in North Lanarkshire and across Scotland are being lost to long-term joblessness, as official figures reveal that 15,865 16-24 year olds have been claiming jobseekers allowance for over 6 months – doubling the same figure recorded last year.
In North Lanarkshire alone, 3,555 16-24 year olds are on jobseekers allowance, with 1,505 having claimed for over 6 months (up by 785 from April 2011) and 565 having claimed for over 12 months (up by 460 from April 2011)
Mark Griffin MSP is pressing the SNP Government to do more.
Mark said:
"Long term unemployment has a devastating impact on our young people. It leaves scars on their lives, and has a lasting legacy throughout our communities.
"The SNP Government seem incapable of addressing the problems – these figures show this as clear as day.
"I am pleased the Labour Council has established an action plan for jobs and has made job creation its number one priority in the coming years by providing the support that local employers need to take on new staff.
"However figures in North Lanarkshire are rising and it is the Government that must step up to the plate. The SNP created a ministerial position solely to address the scourge of youth unemployment. These figures show a catastrophic failure on Angela Constance’s part and she must develop a cohesive, strategic plan to tackle this crisis, not just in North Lanarkshire, but across the country."
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