The West of Ireland is attracting highly-skilled professionals with its promise of a better quality of life, career opportunities, lower property prices and more disposable income, according to a new survey released yesterday.
The Galway-Mayo Relocation Survey was carried out by National Recruitment & HR Services Group Collins McNicholas in conjunction with IDA Ireland. The report was officially launched yesterday at two separate events at GMIT in Castlebar, Mayo and Boston Scientific in Galway.
Collins McNicholas surveyed almost 200 people who have recently relocated to Galway or Mayo. The report includes responses from those who relocated from 21 different countries including Australia, Canada, United States, Germany, Italy, Poland and Spain. Some 49% surveyed came to the West from outside of Ireland.
The survey found that 91% of respondents were happy with their move to the West of Ireland and 78% would recommend others relocate to Galway or Mayo.
Nearly three quarters of the respondents found it easy to find work, with jobs websites and recruitment agencies playing a big part in their search methods. Some 85% have either moved into a similar or more senior role than the one they held before moving.
Since relocating, 76% say the balance between their working and home lives is much better now. When asked about the factors that influenced their move to the West, 91% cited a better quality of life, while 60% wanted to be closer to family and friends. The other main reasons given were: career opportunities, lower property prices, a safer environment, a reduced cost of living and less traffic.
Speaking yesterday, Director of Collins McNicholas, Michelle Murphy said, "The West of Ireland is buoyant when it comes to employment opportunities with highly-qualified people taking up quality careers in a range of sectors and shows no sign of changing in the near future. The 2018 Galway-Mayo Relocation Survey examines the experiences of professionals who have relocated to the region, and the findings show they are overwhelmingly happy with the move and with their improved quality of life."
Regional Manager West Region at IDA Ireland, Catherina Blewitt added, "The West is well positioned to continue to attract new FDI and grow employment in existing companies and we will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders and parties in the region to achieve this."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
