20th November 2025
Employment growth accelerates as job numbers reach record high in Q3 2025
- Employment continues to grow, with 30,700 jobs created in the year to Q3 2025.
- Total employment now stands at over 2.82 million.
- Employment growth has been widespread throughout the regions – employment outside of Dublin increased by 23,700 in the year to Q3 2025 (+1.2%)
- Full time employment was up 34,800 (+1.6%) year on year in the third quarter, while part time employment was down 4,100 (-0.7%) year on year
- In October 2025, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 5.0%, down from the revised rate of 5.1 in September 2025
Labour Force Survey (LFS) results published today by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show continued growth in Ireland’s labour market, with 30,700 jobs created in the year to Q3 2025.
Employment now stands at over 2.82 million, an increase of approximately 1.1% over Q3 2024.
This is a positive step towards the Programme for Government’s target to create 300,000 extra jobs by 2030, supported by strategic investments, supportive enterprise policies and a focus on fostering a vibrant economy. This commitment to continued employment growth builds upon the Government’s White Paper on Enterprise, published in December 2022, which sets out the strategic direction for job creation in the years ahead.
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris TD said:
“Today’s Labour Force Survey results indicate the level of employment reached a new record high of over 2.82 million in the third quarter with over 30,000 jobs created on an annual basis. However, the easing in the pace of growth in recent quarters is a reminder that we cannot take continued strong jobs growth for granted.
“We know that this is a time of significant uncertainty in the global economy and that Ireland is particularly exposed to any potential downturn in the international trading environment.
“That is why Government is focused on protecting jobs, boosting our competitiveness, and reinforcing the resilience of our economy. Budget 2026 prioritised investments in skills, in innovation, and in infrastructure that underpin a strong, productive economy.
“Budget 2026 also underlines our commitment to keeping our public finances on a sustainable trajectory. This has been – and will remain – a key priority for Government. It is precisely because of sound fiscal management in recent years that we are approaching the challenges ahead from a position of strength.”
Commenting on the figures, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD said:
“The Irish labour market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, underpinned by strong employment levels and adaptability across sectors. This enduring strength reflects the economy’s capacity to navigate uncertainty while maintaining opportunities for workers and businesses alike. Continued investment in skills and innovation will ensure that Ireland not only withstands current challenges but emerges stronger and more competitive in the years ahead.
“Targeted measures such as tailored training programmes, accessible learning pathways, and employer incentives are helping to break down barriers and create greater inclusion in the labour market, by increasing participation among marginalised groups, including women, people with disabilities, migrants, and those more distant from the workforce. By embedding diversity and inclusion into skills development initiatives, Ireland is not only addressing social challenges but also unlocking untapped talent that strengthens economic resilience and innovation”.
Please also find here a link to the CSO release:
Labour Force Survey (LFS) - CSO
ENDS
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