Two in three fear effects of downturn

TWO out of three Irish business people have said the credit crunch would affect their company negatively this year.

Four out of five also expect job losses in the construction and manufacturing sectors over coming months.

A survey conducted by Berkley recruitment found that a quarter of people believe business is worse now than 12 months ago.

The survey, conducted among 1,000 respondents found a big difference between those expecting job losses in the low and highly skilled sectors.

Low-skilled jobs market is seen by 55% to have job losses and 25% to have significant job losses, while just 23% are expecting job losses in high-end R&D roles, and expect 3% significant job losses.

Director of Berkley, Fergal Brosnan said: “Given that the government and IDA have been targeting high value roles for a long period, it is notable that people in this sector appear quite confident on the stability of their jobs with 26% expecting job increases this year.

“We conclude that this survey is reflecting that the private sector is showing a degree of realism, and maturity among its employees, while acknowledging an expected loss of jobs to continue in the low-skilled areas.”

The survey also found that half of those surveyed are more worried about job security now than 12 months ago while over half said career progression was their primary reason for moving jobs, with a quarter saying job location.

Asked what the Government should give priority to in the national pay talks, 35% said there should be a focus on improved work practices and 31% said they should let pay increases match inflation.