News
Unemployment up but more seeking jobs - report
Robert Leslie 30/07/2010 12:35:00
ORKNEY'S average unemployment rate rose slightly in 2009, according to
the latest Economic Review published by Orkney Islands Council's
Economic Development team.
However, figures in the report also show that the percentage of the
Orkney population who are economically active - either in employment or
seeking employment - is higher than the Scottish and British averages -
88.1% compared to 79.8% and 78.7% respectively.
The review covers a range of topics and includes county-wide statistics
from 2009 and 2010 including population figures and weather records and
performance data for industries such as agriculture, fishing and energy
production.
The report also contains sections on the county's transport systems, tourism and the housing market.
The review plays an important part in helping the Council formulate its economic strategy and guiding policies.
Interesting figures from the review include:
• The Orkney population is now predicted to reach 21,501 in 2023
• the highest rate of unemployment in Orkney is lower than the Scottish average
• the percentage of the Orkney population who are either in employment
or actively seeking employment tends to be higher than both the
Scottish and Great Britain averages
• Employees in Orkney in construction and manufacturing contribute more to the economy than national averages
• the agriculture industry remains the most significant employer in Orkney outwith the public sector
• The number of visitors to the county has increased by 17% since 2005
• During the fourth quarter of 2009, house prices in Orkney fell slightly from the corresponding figure 12 months earlier
The complete review is available on the Council's website at www.orkney.gov.uk