University graduation ceremony

Labour Markets and Skills

Research focuses on a wide range of policy areas examining how workers are faring in the labour market and what skills workers need to meet the needs of an evolving economy. Research topics include pay, unemployment, training and skills.

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New ESRI research examines the international evidence on universal basic income

This research, funded by the Low Pay Commission, reviews the international evidence on universal basic income and highlights the main issues for consideration in the design of any future UBI pilot in Ireland.

belfast
New ESRI research compares productivity levels in Ireland and Northern Ireland

This report, produced in partnership with the Shared Island unit in the Department of the Taoiseach, is the first comprehensive study comparing productivity in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Among its key findings, it notes that by 2020, productivity per worker was approximately 40 per cent higher in Ireland compared to Northern Ireland.

University lecture hall
Overeducation and skills mismatch

Download research examining the incidence of overeducation in Ireland and how it compares to other EU countries. 

Minimum Wage
Minimum wage in Ireland

A number of reports examine who earns the minimum wage in Ireland and how long people remain on the minimum wage for. 

Skilled worker wearing a blue apron is operating a machine in a warehouse
Labour market programmes

Research examines programmes including the Post-Leaving Certificate programme and the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme.