Unemployment has fallen from 171,600 in 1997 to about 77,000 this year. However, 27,400 people have been unemployed on a long-term basis. The Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed has consistently argued for policies to correct the imbalance in employment growth.
"There is compelling evidence that economic growth is not equally benefiting all areas of the country," its spokeswoman said. "The proportionate share of jobs created in the Border, Midland and West region needs to be increased."
To have given any less than the £8 increase in unemployment benefits in last week's Budget would have caused a "crisis in social partnership", the INOU said. The rise should have been at least £10 a week, it said, adding that unless inflation fell, "this payment will yet again be wiped out".