Less than 2,000 people in Falkirk district are Job Seekers

Figures published by the Office for National Statistics showed 1,916 people claimed jobseekers allowance in the district at the end of 2007.

The numbers represent an 18% reduction compared with the same period in 2006.

In total, less than 2% of the area's eligible workers were without employment. The figures contrast with a 11,000 jobless in the mid-1980s.

Local councillor, Craig Martin convener of the economic development committee said the local authority worked closely with local and national agencies to ensure access to training and employment opportunities.

'business growth'

He added: "The council also works with the business sector in sustaining growth and implementing various initiatives including the modern apprenticeship programme.

"At present the percentage of modern apprentices and skillseekers employed by Falkirk Council represents 3.7% of the total workforce, that's 205 young people in paid training and employment."

SNP councillor, Angus MacDonald, said that overall, unemployment in the Falkirk Council area was now lower than both the Scottish and UK average.

He claimed his party's policies had helped stimulate the employment market.