Is the Minister aware of a new factor emerging which could have serious consequences for unemployment trends, namely, the survey carried out in some areas on last year's leaving certificate students? Those going on to third level education, those returning to second level education and the people going into training account for 75 per cent of the leaving certificate students. Does this trend disturb the Minister? Obviously it must have a catastrophic impact on unemployment trends.

I am not sure if I got the sense of what the Deputy was asking.

I am saying that taking into account those going back to repeat second level education because of the scarcity of jobs, those going on to third level education and those going into training places, the placement rate in employment is now as low as 25 per cent. Will the Minister not agree this is a disturbing trend and one that will have a serious impact on unemployment now and in the future?

It is disturbing to the extent that it confirms what the statistics have indicated already, namely, that there are limited jobs available for many people at present. It is a positive trend in that young people are taking the decision to acquire further education and skills. The evidence of the various studies available indicate that a workforce that is not well educated and well trained will not have the real potential to earn their keep in an open economy. To the extent that we have the capacity to provide the training and the second and third level education, it is a positive trend.

What about the numbers who will go on the unemployment register this year?

I do not have details in relation to that.