THE £1 billion deal struck between the DUP and Conservatives has boosted job prospects in Northern Ireland according to the latest employment survey.
The benefits of the 'supply and demand agreement' to support the Tory government are already being seen in the north, with hiring optimism jump above the UK average (+6 per cent) to +7 per cent this quarter.
The ManpowerGroup employment outlook survey also highlights boosts to both the manufacturing and transport sectors as a direct result of the £1 billion deal.
Operations director at Manpower, Jason Greaves said the Northern Ireland economy is starting to experience the long-term benefits of the DUP deal.
"Both the manufacturing and automotive and transport sectors have seen particularly high demand for skilled candidates and this is translating to higher rates of pay for candidates."
"In manufacturing, clients are crying out for experienced welders, and clever candidates are making the most of this strong position by pushing for higher salaries (around £15 an hour for a welder) and the job security of being employed on a permanent basis. "
In spite of the positive results concerns were raised by respondents in relation to the outcome of Brexit and skills shortages.
"We still remain concerned about the impact of Brexit on the region’s jobs market. The future of the border with Ireland is at the forefront of Brexit discussions and many employers need certainty around this issue before they make any big hiring decisions. We have also seen the region lose its appeal for some EU workers who are already here, but are finding that the weakened pound makes their work much less lucrative. We are aware of companies that are keen to retain skilled EU workers and have even offered free accommodation but have found that it is not enough of a financial incentive to retain these colleagues.”
In the UK employers have recorded a one point increase in hiring optimism to +6 per cent, with a surge in positivity among public sector employers a key factor in the improved national picture.
Regionally, confidence in London, where housing and the broader cost of living is the highest, has halved to +4 per cent since last quarter. The east of England forecast tops the charts at +11 per cent.
