Cross‑border work hampered by tax and transport, report finds

Nearly half of workers on the island would consider a cross‑border role, but tax complexity and transport costs remain major obstacles, a new All‑Island Workforce Report shows.

The report “Tomorrow’s Talent”, compiled by Ibec, the CBI and Hays, surveyed 1,211 individuals in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland between May and June 2024. Forty‑six per cent said they would take a cross‑border job to advance their career, with higher pay (75 per cent) and better career prospects (67 per cent) the top motivations, followed by improved benefits (40 per cent) and flexible working (30 per cent).

Practical barriers

Only 30 per cent of respondents understood dual‑tax requirements, and 55 per cent identified commuting costs as the biggest deterrent, ahead of poor transport links (27 per cent) and tax complexity (26 per cent). Fifty‑three per cent of hiring managers said greater tax alignment is an urgent priority, while 51 per cent called for better transport links to close skills gaps.

Employers also see untapped talent across the border: almost 70 per cent believe the needed skills exist in the neighbouring jurisdiction, even as half report recruitment is becoming harder. AI has altered recruitment for over 40 per cent of employers, with 60 per cent feeling prepared for its impact.

Angela McGowan, director of CBI Northern Ireland, said the findings underscore the need for seamless all‑island employment, noting that roles such as a delivery driver between Sligo and Strabane or an IT specialist working in Dublin and Belfast should not face unnecessary barriers.

Source: Silicon Republic. Photo: 李 先生 / Pexels.