Construction workers urged to return to education after industry downturn

PEOPLE whose jobs in the construction industry might be at risk should consider applying for a college place or upgrading their skills, guidance counsellors have advised.

The Higher Education Authority warned this week that some of the 80,000-plus workers in the sector who do not have any qualification higher than the Junior Certificate might have difficulty getting employment elsewhere if they are affected by the downturn in the industry.

Although the Construction Industry Federation has rejected suggestions that mass unemployment is a prospect, the concerns about skills were echoed yesterday by the Institute of Guidance Counsellors.

Its president, Frank Mulvihill, said there are not enough qualified workers for the IT sector at the moment, but certain sectors such as construction might suffer a little and those who find themselves out of work without a qualification should look at improving their education.

“I don’t think there will be an avalanche of unemployment, but there’s no doubt those who are under-qualified in educational terms could be at a disadvantage,” he said.

“For students who feel third level or the CAO courses are not for them, they should seriously look at upskilling. We would urge employers to encourage workers to upskill,” he said.

While many people might not feel that higher education courses offered through the CAO are suited to them, Mr Mulvihill said the further education sector can also provide a ladder to third level.

“There are huge opportunities for going back to education, without necessarily having a Leaving Certificate. If you are over 23, you can apply as a mature student and account can be taken of the experience and skills from working a number of years,” he said.