Unemployment last month rose by 1,124 people, or 19.95 per cent, when compared to the same month last year, according to the latest official statistics.

Figures issued by the National Statistics Office show that the number of men registering for work rose by 847 while women increased by 277.

The unemployed men were mostly seeking elementary jobs and trades while women were mostly seeking service oriented and clerical work.

The statistics follow similar bad news in February when unemployment rose by 12 per cent over the same month last year.

In fact, unemployment has been on a steady monthly rise since December when 6,373 persons were registered with the ETC.

Last month it stood at 7,210.

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