Working Abroad Appeals As Downturn Bites

Irish citizens are again looking aboard for work as the recession deepens.

A survey has revealed that the majority of respondents are prepared to travel abroad to find work, whilst those unwilling to do so are staying in Ireland mainly due to family and financial commitments.

Hartley People Recruitment and Training recently conducted a survey amongst its candidates across the South East region to uncover their views on future jobs prospects.

The results of the survey revealed that almost 60% of respondents are prepared to relocate outside of Ireland for the right role, whilst the remainder do not feel that relocation is a viable option for them.

Of the respondents that indicated they would relocate, improved job and career prospects, salary incentives and better tax conditions were cited as the primary reasons for relocation.

The country of choice for these respondents is Australia / New Zealand (30%), 20% are prepared to travel anywhere to find work, 19% cited the UK as their country of choice, followed closely by the USA with 14%.

According to Roisin Hartley, Director of Hartley People, the survey was carried out to get a true 'on the ground' picture of jobseekers views.

"Initially when we analysed the results it did paint a pretty bleak picture about the 'brain drain effect' as so many are prepared to travel abroad to gain employment or to enhance their careers.

"The trend indicates that those who are unable to relocate due to commitments, both family and financial, are slightly older than "However, on the flip side, it is reassuring that 60% intend to return home within three years.

"The fact that these jobseekers plan to return home re-skilled, up-skilled and prepared to contribute to the Irish economy may be a key factor in driving future growth in Ireland," she said.

"We must remain focused on job creation in this country. Ireland has a smart, well-educated population, primed and ready to work. Over half of the respondents in our survey are graduates and although many plan to leave, crucially, they intend to return.

"There are jobs abroad for those who are prepared to travel, so the government needs to remain focused on job creation ensuring this talented and skilled workforce return and assist in rebuilding the Irish economy," said Ms. Hartley.

(BMcC)