MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Magallanes unemployment 6,5%

Magallanes Region unemployment experienced a slight 0,2% increase in the last quarter of 2003 reaching 6,5%. However compared to a year ago it remained unchanged and Magallanes is below the national Chilean average of 7,4%.

According to the Chilean Statistics Institute Magallanes workforce in Q4 of 2003 increased 5% over the same period a year ago totalling 70,270 people.

However the number of employed is 65,710, a 5% increase over the same quarter a year ago and equivalent to 3,120 people, while those out of a job totalled 4,560, a 5,1% increase.

Regarding occupation by activity, in agriculture, hunting and fisheries there are 190 more people employed than a year ago and 40 above the previous quarter.

Mining and quarries 540 less than in 2002 and 50 less than in the third Q of 2003.

Public utilities, an increase of 250 and 140. Retailing 1,230 over 2002 and 70 more than in 3Q 2003.

Transport and Communication experienced a loss of 400 and 230; financial services also saw a decline of 380 and 180. Finally the Social, Community and Personal Services employment expanded in 3,070 and 140.