ESRI September 2024 Newsletter

Dear Reader,

This month, we released three major reports. The first was our fourth annual report Poverty, income inequality and living standards in Ireland, funded by the Community Foundation Ireland. I was particularly struck by its finding that 230,000 children are currently estimated to experience material deprivation. This is an increase of almost 30,000 since 2022. These findings suggest that additional policy measures – such as a second tier of child benefit targeted at low-income families – may need to be considered to achieve commitments to reduce child poverty rates and material deprivation.

Our second major report Skill requirements for emerging technologies in Ireland found that the university sector is meeting employers’ demands for new graduates in AI, automation and blockchain-related jobs. It also developed a highly replicable methodological framework that policymakers can use to monitor labour market changes caused by new technologies.

We also published our Quarterly Economic Commentary, Autumn 2024, which forecasts reduced but consistent growth in the domestic economy. Considering Budget 2025, it notes that the robust nature of the Irish public finances allows for key infrastructural issues to be addressed. However, it cautions that increases in government spending should be implemented prudently and precisely.

Also on the Budget front, our annual and always highly anticipated, Post-Budget Briefing will take place at the ESRI on 4 October. You can find registration details here.

Lastly, as the ESRI relies on our funders, patrons, and corporate members to support our work, I am delighted to report that in recent months the following companies have joined as corporate members: Mason Hayes & Curran, Tirlán, Workday, LGMA, HubSpot, IIP, EY, Bank of Ireland, Mercury and Jacobs. 

Regards,

Professor Alan Barrett
Director