An extra 126 people were made redundant in Fermanagh during the month of February. This brings the jobless total in the County to 1,444 an increase of 624 since this time last year.
The Northern Ireland increase over the year to February 2009 was 18,100 (+75.7%). This was marginally higher in percentage terms than that recorded for the UK (+74.9%).
Nearly 80% of the annual increase in Northern Ireland claimants occurred in the last six months. The February increase in the number of unemployed claimants was one of the highest of the last 12 months, second only to the monthly increase in November 2008.
The Department of the Enterprise was notified of 893 proposed redundancies over the period, mid-February 2009 to mid-March 2009. This compares with 715 proposed redundancies notified to the Department in the previous monthly period. Over the 12 monthly period, there was a total of 3,256 confirmed redundancies in Northern Ireland, an increase of 72% (1,363) from the previous year.
Commenting on the figures, Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster said: "The latest figures show a continuing rise in the levels of unemployment and economic inactivity. This was again disappointing, but not unexpected in the context of the global downturn.
"Most of the increases have occurred in the last six months, and it is clear that employers are increasingly feeling the impact of the economic downturn. It is equally clear that there are no quick fixes available to turn around the global economy," she continued.
"However," she went on, "now is the time for our businesses to be proactive as they face the current economic challenges.
"Successful companies will be those that sustain their marketing strategies and adapt them to maintain and develop market share. A knowledge of cost structures can help a business save money, while minimising the impact on customers.
"Companies must also proactively manage their relationships with suppliers. A focus on quality and maintaining research and development also provides a basis upon which to build a long-term strategy and can help businesses reap benefits in the future."
Mrs Foster promised that the Northern Ireland Executive would continue to do what it could to assist businesses through a difficult period.
