From the climate crisis and Artificial Intelligence-driven digital transformation to a deepening cost-of-living crisis, this research highlighted growing concerns among the Irish public, particularly public sector workers. A 2024 survey of Fórsa members found one in five expect their job satisfaction and quality of life to decline, with younger workers feeling this most acutely. Rising living costs, long commutes, and limited flexibility in frontline roles have also exacerbated recruitment and retention issues across key services.
Fórsa commissioned a landmark report by TASC in 2024, exploring the urgent social, economic, and technological challenges shaping Ireland’s future — and outlining a roadmap for State-led solutions that support workers, communities, and democracy.
Despite Ireland’s strong macroeconomic performance, the report warns that decades of underinvestment in public infrastructure threaten future resilience. It urges the Government to take advantage of current economic strength to adopt a more interventionist approach – boosting affordable living, investing in public transport, expanding flexible work, and building compact, connected communities.
The report also makes a compelling case for a just climate transition, calling for large-scale investment in green jobs and training programmes to support communities through change. Similarly, it outlines how the rapid development of AI presents both risks and opportunities, stressing the need for protections, upskilling, and collaboration with unions to ensure technology augments rather than replaces decent work.
Ultimately, this report offers a proactive vision: one where the State steps up to protect living standards and tackle inequality, — not only safeguarding the future of work, but ensuring it is fair, inclusive, and sustainable.
Read the full report: The Future of the Irish State: 2025 and Beyond