Burke welcomes record year for Irish labour market

• Employment up 61,500 in the first three quarter of 2025, with over 1,000 jobs created per week for 2025

• Record 2.82 million people now at work in the Irish Economy

• Ireland has one of lowest unemployment rates in the EU

The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, TD, says the Irish labour market saw sustained employment growth, rising labour force participation and record job numbers in 2025.

In a statement today, he said that in total, 2,825,500 people are now employed in Ireland. Over the course of the first three quarters of the year, employment was up 61,500.

The record level of employment reflects the resilience of the economy, the collective effort of the Irish workforce and the success of government policies aimed at supporting job creation, fostering innovation and providing opportunities for all sectors.

Labour market participation rates remain at high levels, marking a continuation of the trends observed in recent years; employment numbers have hit new highs and the labour force continues to expand, helped by high levels of inward migration.

In respect of unemployment, numbers remain low and broadly consistent with full employment. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 4.9% in November 2025 was down from 5.0% in October.

Both in an absolute sense and relative to peers, the Irish labour market has performed well. Relative to the EU, Ireland has one of the lowest unemployment rates. For 2025 Q3, the unemployment rate in Ireland was 4.9%, relative to 6.4% in the euro area, and 6.0% in the EU. The employment rate in Ireland was 79.9% in 2025 Q3, compared to 75.8% across the euro area, and 76.2% in the EU.

Minister Burke stated: “The Irish labour market continues to demonstrate remarkable strength, evidenced by strong employment levels and adaptability across sectors. We have been creating employment at close to 1,000 extra jobs per week, which is a solid achievement given the external environment both across the globe and in Europe, as we continue to have one the lowest unemployment levels in the EU.

“As we look ahead to 2026, it is essential that we build on this year’s progress to ensure Ireland remains an attractive, inclusive and forward-looking destination where people can work, live and thrive.”

Skills development and workforce inclusion

It is essential that Ireland’s education and training system aligns with evolving labour market needs, with lifelong learning employer collaboration, and active inclusion essential components to ensure all citizens can participate in and benefit from economic growth.

This government has invested heavily in skills programmes, allowing workers to access reskilling and upskilling opportunities, particularly in sectors undergoing technological or structural shifts. These efforts help individuals adapt to industry changes, such as the rise of AI and green technologies, while providing SMEs with the adaptable talent they require to remain competitive.

An integrated strategy, encompassing skills development, reskilling for digital and green transitions, and targeted workforce inclusion, has fostered a more resilient and equitable labour market. Such coordinated efforts help prepare individuals for future challenges and ensure broader participation across diverse societal groups.

Minister Burke added: “This government remain committed to supporting workers throughout their careers and continues to champion diversity and inclusion across the labour market. Progress in closing gender and age employment gaps is evident, and more women and older workers are participating in a workforce that is increasingly diverse and dynamic.

“Initiatives promoting flexible working arrangements, hybrid models and enhanced work-life balance have been key drivers of progress, alongside targeted upskilling and reskilling programmes that empower individuals to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. We need to make our high employment levels benefit society at large, ensuring all of our people can enjoy a high-quality of life and rewarding career pathways across every sectors of the labour market.”

Please also find here a link to the latest CSO and Eurostat releases:

Labour Force Survey (LFS) - CSO - Central Statistics Office

Monthly Unemployment - CSO - Central Statistics Office

EU labour market - quarterly statistics - Statistics Explained