The number of jobless people in Jersey is now 756

In January, 82 new people contacted the job centre, bringing the total of registered unemployed to 756.

Unemployment has gone up almost four-fold since November 2002, when only 204 people were registered unemployed.

President of Employment and Social Security, Senator Paul Routier, said the number of unemployed people had increased, despite there being more vacancies available.

He said there were a number of schemes being run by his department to help people find a job.

But he said politicians and businesses charged with encouraging business growth should take note.

"We may have to encourage businesses to develop and therefore help people to provide more jobs in the island."