THE NUMBER of people unemployed in the region is two-thirds higher than this time last year.
Statistics published by Nomis reveal that 4525 people, equivalent to 5.2 per cent of Dumfries and Galloway’s working population, claimed out of work benefits in October. Data for October 2019 shows the figure at 2720 – representing a 66 per cent increase over the year.
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said the figures are of “huge concern,” adding: “The easing of lockdown in the summer where some people returned to work, but most remained on furlough seems to have put a temporary hold on further rises in unemployment during the early autumn months.
“But sadly, it’s widely recognised that this is the calm before the storm and the full impact of coronavirus on employment as further restrictions are enforced, has yet to be felt.”
