Ireland has the fifth highest unemployment rate at 14.2% in the EU, according to the results of the Quarterly Employment and Social Situation Review
In the first quarter of 2012, unemployment was slightly down from November 2011 peak of 14.7%.
However, young people not in education, employment or training (NEETs) has become one of the highest in the EU and long-term unemployment at 9.1% is well over the EU average of 4.3%.
Relative poverty rates have risen with children and young adults the worst affected. Only those over 65 are not affected. Relative poverty rates and material deprivation rates in Ireland are still below EU averages, the report finds.
On an overall EU level, the quarterly review shows the EU labour market and social situation continues to deteriorate.
Differences between member states remain significant, with around half the member states experiencing some economic growth and the other half either in stagnation or seeing a decline.
The review confirms that overall employment is stagnant and is slightly decreasing in the euro area.
Unemployment has been rising in most of the member states bringing it to above 10% since early 2012.
The report also takes a closer look at labour market segmentation, participation of women and young people, migration flows within the European Union, the impact of the crisis on different sectors, developments in social protection expenditure, levels of financial distress and living conditions.
Many young people are intending or have moved countries to find work. In February 2012, the number of Southern European citizens working in Germany had risen by 22,000 compared to a year before.
