THE number of people unemployed in Northern Ireland remained unchanged last month, but employment is still at an all time high, according to figures yesterday from the British government.
The seasonally adjusted jobless figure is still 85,800 - 11.4 per cent of the workforce - the lowest since May 1981 and down 4,800 on this time last year.
The unadjusted figure has fallen by 532 to 85,744 from January to February this year. The areas with the highest unemployment rates are Strabane 23.3 per cent, Derry 22.4 per cent and Newry 22 per cent.
The Economy Minister, Baroness Denton, said: "Overall, these figures show that all the hard work which has been put into the local economy is making a real difference.
"I hope and believe that they will act as an incentive for us all to redouble our efforts to make sure we do not lose what has been achieved and to bring even more jobs and prosperity.
Meanwhile, 32 new jobs will be created and 16 safeguarded by a £1.1 million investment at MKL Meats in Downpatrick, Co Down. The investment, which is supported by the Industrial Development Board, involves upgrading new premises.
The IDB chairman, Mr John B. McGuckian, said: "The red meat industry is vitally important to the Northern Ireland economy and it is essential that it is well equipped, not only to maintain consistent quality but also to meet fast changing, consumer lifestyle demands.