The Central Statistics Office reports that the employment rate for individuals aged 15-64 has risen to 75.3%, the highest since 1998. The employment numbers increased by 3.7% year-over-year, with nearly 2.8 million people employed. Unemployment decreased to 4.5%, with notable reductions in long-term unemployment. The largest job gains occurred in professional sectors and the hospitality industry, despite challenges from recent closures in the restaurant sector.