**Urgent Update: Donegal’s Live Register Drops to 7,498 in December**

BREAKING: The latest data reveals that 7,498 people were registered for unemployment benefits in Donegal as of December 31, 2025, marking a significant 3% decrease from last year. This decline highlights ongoing improvements in local employment rates.

The figures, released today, show that the majority of Donegal’s eight Social Welfare offices reported reductions in their registration numbers over the past year. Notably, Dunfanaghy was the exception, with an increase of over 4%, bringing the total there to 522 individuals seeking assistance.

The most substantial drop occurred in Killybegs, where registrations fell by nearly 13%, leaving 369 people on the Live Register. Similarly, Donegal Town experienced a significant decline with 479 individuals, a decrease of 11%.

Other areas also saw noteworthy changes: Ballybofey reported 977 people signed on, down 5%, and Ballyshannon recorded 861 individuals, also a 5% decrease. The Dungloe office showed a 4% drop with 786 people on the register, while Buncrana had 1,371, down by 2%. Interestingly, Letterkenny remained largely unchanged, with 2,133 individuals, a mere 0.3% decline.

This decline in the Live Register is a positive sign for the local economy, suggesting that more individuals are finding work in the region. The ongoing efforts by various agencies to enhance job opportunities appear to be yielding results.

As we move into 2026, stakeholders will be watching closely for further trends in employment and economic recovery across Donegal. The next official report is expected in February, where more insights into the regional job market will be revealed.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. For further information, contact the local Social Welfare offices or visit official government resources.