New research shows further evidence that people are better off having a job than living on the dole. The ESRI has found that most people who claim benefits are single and childless – and would be paid more on the minimum wage. Even when work does pay less than welfare – 7 out of 10 people would prefer to have a job. The findings have important implications for policymakers as it suggests initiatives to improve the reward from work are worthwhile, but will have only a limited impact on overall unemployment. More substantial reductions in unemployment will require a revival of international and national demand, and activation measures providing skills and training in areas where new jobs will arise,” it said. Research professor with the ESRI Tim Callan says there are some groups who could potentially be better off on welfare:
