Almost a quarter of households jobless, report finds
Nearly a quarter of Irish households are now jobless according to a new report out today.
The research from the National Economic and Social Council found that most people in Ireland have suffered a loss of wealth or income since the economic crash in 2008.
With 22% of all households are now jobless, the report also found that six out of 10 people who are unemployed are now unemployed for more than one year, with 40% of these men aged 25 to 44.
Young people have especially high unemployment rates – 33% for 15-19 year olds.
In 38% of Irish households, expenditure now exceeds disposable income, while a quarter are in arrears with bill payments.
The NESC report finds that the area worst affected by the economic crisis is the outer reaches of the Dublin commuter belt.
The report's author Helen Johnston says people are suffering mental distress as a result of unemployment.
"Those who have lost jobs, had business failures, seen large falls in income or wealth, or who carry a large debt burden have experienced significant social impacts," she said.
"Those who were least well-off prior to the economic crisis, especially people who are unemployed, lone parents and people who are ill or disabled, continue to be most at risk of poverty."
