More job losses expected in 2014

Despite improvements in the economy, the job market in the Netherlands will continue to shrink in 2014, according to benefits agency UWV.

In its 2014 forecast published on Monday, the agency predicts that 66,000 more jobs will disappear this year, compared to 143,000 jobs disappeared in 2013, Z24 reports on Monday. Additionally, 678,000 people are expected apply this year for unemployment benefits. More people will be able to work again, but that will not be sufficient to reduce the total number of unemployment benefits, according to the benefits agency. The UWV expects that the number of people claiming unemployment benefit will reach 485,000 by the end of the year. The employment opportunities will improve in the temporary employment sector and in wholesaling, the UWV said. The loss of jobs will continue especially in government and government-related entities, with the exception of education.