NEW Deal has breathed new life into Blackpool's job market according to a local MP.

Gordon Marsden, MP for Blackpool South was speaking after a roadshow publicising the scheme, which offers businesses cash incentives to take on people who have been unemployed for a long period of time, stopped off in the Hounds Hill Shopping Centre last weekend (April 1/2)

"The New Deal on jobs is already starting to have a real impact in Blackpool," said the MP.

"We already have the highest enquiry rates and take-up of the deal for lone parents in the North West."

Figures show that more than 650 people have got jobs through the New Deal and more than 200 of those have gone on to full time employment.

In return the government pays for what is called a "gateway" scheme which looks at individuals and the reasons why they are not able to get a job.

"Sometimes there are complicated reasons why people are not able to get a job," added Mr Marsden.

"At gateway sessions people are taught basic skills, like filling in application forms and what to do at interview.

"Other people have more difficult problems, like alcohol or substance abuse and that is something else they tackle too.

"And the extension of the New Deal to the over 50s is another opportunity for more people to take advantage of what the Government has to offer.

"It is vital for the regeneration of Blackpool our employers take advantage of that opportunity."

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