FIGURES show unemployment is at its lowest since the end of 2008.

There were 792 people out of work last month, statistics by the economic affairs division of the Treasury reveal.

This represents 1.9 per cent of the economically active population and it marks the fourth consecutive month unemployment has fallen in the Island.

Treasury Minister Anne Craine said: "Although the decrease can be partly attributed to seasonal factors, there continues to be healthy recruitment in most areas of the economy and in many cases this may lead to a quick movement off the register for those unfortunate enough to have been made unemployed.

"To maintain an unemployment rate of less than two per cent in the face of ongoing global uncertainty is remarkable.

"It reflects a strong economic performance and is further testimony to the attractions of doing business in and with the Isle of Man."

Mrs Craine said the breadth and resilience of the Isle of Man economy was helping to create new job openings, particularly in emerging sectors such as e-gaming and aerospace.

She added: "Further diversification remains a key factor towards the continued growth of our Island and government will continue to work in a proactive manner in order to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

Of the 792 out of work, 570 are men and 222 women. The jobless total for May was 75 fewer than the previous month and is down 237 since January.