According to the report, 70pc of employers have struggled to recruit talent over the last yearCEOs and HR leaders are reporting a mismatch between what they need and prospective employees' skills. Photo: GettyDemand for workers with AI and digital skills has ramped up as most businesses revealed they are grappling with severe talent gaps, according to a new report. A survey of CEOs and HR leaders published today by business group Ibec found skills deficits are acting as a “strategic handbrake” as pressure mounts to keep pace with emerging technologies. CEOs and HR leaders are reporting a mismatch between what they need and prospective employees' skills. Ibec wants the government to roll out a national scheme, funded through the National Training Fund, to incentivise employers to prepare for “megatrends”.

Source: Irish Independent January 23, 2026 00:22 UTC