The number of people getting degrees, diplomas and certificates from Irish third-level colleges in 1997 who found jobs in Ireland was the highest recorded, according to figures from the Higher Education Authority. The percentage still looking for jobs eight months after graduation was the lowest.
Of the 1997 graduates surveyed, 56.3 per cent were in some form of employment by April 1998, compared to 53.9 per cent the previous year.
Among degree holders, 57 per cent of those with primary degrees had found jobs, compared to 80.6 per cent of those with higher degrees. A further 37.5 per cent of primary degree holders and 11.7 per cent of higher degree holders were pursuing further study or other training.
There was a striking increase in the number of people with primary degrees going to work in continental EU countries: 36.6 per cent of the total who got jobs overseas, compared to 19.1 per cent in 1996. There was a parallel reduction in the numbers going to Britain - 31.8 per cent compared to 36.9 per cent in 1996 - and to North America, 7.5 per cent compared to 11.8 per cent in 1996.
A similar trend was apparent among holders of higher degrees. Some 34.8 per cent went to work in continental EU countries, compared to 25.1 per cent in 1996. The percentage going to North America fell from 19.9 per cent to 8.8 per cent.
However, there will be some concern that the proportion of primary degree holders going on to do research work or further academic study fell from 23.2 per cent in 1996 to 22.7 per cent in 1997.
Among diploma and certificate holders, the proportion entering the Irish labour market and getting jobs rose from 79.6 per cent in 1996 to 86.3 per cent in 1997. The proportion continuing their studies rose by 3.8 per cent over the same period.