Germany's unemployment could be halved by 2010 January 1, 2005
German Economics and Labour Minister Wolfgang Clement said Friday he was optimistic the country's jobless numbers could be halved by 2010.
Speaking on the eve of labour market reforms the government hopes will help boost the economy, Clement said halving the country's unemployment figure of almost 4.5 million was possible.
"Of course, it requires the necessary economic conditions," including steady economic growth, Clement told German radio.
The Hartz IV labour reforms are part of the overall Agenda 2010 package aimed at more flexible labour market regulations in an effort to tackle mass unemployment and encourage economic growth.
It will cut benefits to long-term unemployed while at the same time providing them with extra support to find jobs.
Observers say the success of Hartz IV will prove crucial to Schroeder's prospects of securing a third term in 2006. Schroeder has made Hartz IV the key priority for 2005.
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