FORMER employment minister Danny Kennedy has described the challenges of finding a job - six months after losing his assembly seat.
The ex-deputy leader of the Ulster Unionists, who was one of the most high-profile figures to lose their post as MLA, has revealed he has been forced to sign on the dole.
And at 58, Mr Kennedy had admitted "it is going to be a challenge given my age".
The Bessbrook man had been an MLA since 1998 and previously held ministerial portfolios including minister for the Department of Employment and Learning and the Department for Regional Development.
But since losing his seat in March, Mr Kennedy has been on the look-out for new employment - but to no avail - forcing him to sign on the dole.
"When I first registered, the staff had been tremendously courteous, but one or two of them reminded me that my previous visit to the job centre in Newry was as Minister for Employment and Learning," he told Q Radio’s Kevin McAllister.
"So when you come back you’re in a different guise.
"That is life - that’s also politics and I’m not going to complain about that.
"When political defeat comes there’s a jolt with it and there's no doubt about... politics can be a blood sport.
"You can never take anything for granted - nor should you."
Mr Kennedy however said he remains optimistic he will find employment.
"There are issues where I still feel I have a contribution to make either through public service or generally to the community," he said.
