Northern Ireland’s Hidden Talent Pool

This year’s Business Barometer report, published by The Open University and British Chambers of Commerce, highlights that despite 68% of local organisations facing skills shortages, over a third (36%) of those businesses surveyed don’t have any specific initiatives, skills programmes or workplace adjustments in place for specific talent pools, including underrepresented groups such as people with disabilities, workers over 50, or workers with childcare responsibilities.

An increase in digitalisation, automation and the Net Zero imperative are creating demands for new and additional skills in the workplace that are in short supply.

“This report provides further evidence of a structural skills shortage in Northern Ireland,” said John D’Arcy, director of The Open University in Ireland. “We recently hosted a roundtable event with Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce where leaders from business and industry discussed how the mismatch between the skills of the workforce and the demands of the labour market is hindering economic growth and development.

Exactly which skills are in short supply varies across organisation size and sector, but in Northern Ireland, the number one skill shortage was accountants (including trainee-chartered accountants). Medical (inc. pharmacists, nurses, doctors, optometrists, optical and ear professionals) came second and skilled (inc. technicians, skilled labourers, joiners, builders, panel fitters, electricians, welders and fitters) came in at number three.

Commenting on the report’s findings, Stuart Anderson, Head of Public Affairs at NI Chamber said,

“It is clear from this year’s Business Barometer report that the skills shortage has not improved, despite existing efforts from businesses. “And while the report highlights the struggles organisations are facing, it also identifies potential solutions for employers. In the context of a challenging fiscal environment, NI Chamber is actively encouraging members to consider employer-led solutions to the skills deficit.

“There are big opportunities for organisations who support their hidden talent. Investing in employees and empowering them on long-term career paths is a win-win for all.”