Almost nine out of ten workers in the Republic fear their job is not safe, a new poll revealed today.
As employers like Dell, Waterford Crystal and Tara Mines struggle to cut costs to stay in business, a survey carried out by employment law firm Peninsula Ireland found that 85 per cent of employees were worried about their future.
Alan Price, head of Peninsula Ireland, said both workers and management should adapt in the downturn even though their have no guarantees for the future.
"Taking on more responsibility is also a good way for workers to 'recession proof' themselves; with more responsibility, an employee is less disposable than their counterparts," he said.
"It is no secret we are heading into a tough year however Irish employees should take a pro-active approach to increase their chances of job security."
Based on the poll, Peninsula also drew up a workers' wish list for this year with the top five including;
*To have their job made more secure — 58 per cent
*A pay rise — 23 per cent
* To be given more responsibility — 11 per cent
* Job satisfaction — 5 per cent
* Promotion — 3 per cent
Mr Price said: "Taking on more responsibility and proving indispensable to a firm will help them avoid potential redundancy.
"With employees working harder to show their worth, companies will benefit from a better performance and in turn will see their business become more productive."
Peninsula surveyed 1,066 employees in the two weeks before Christmas and during the festive break to find their wish list for the coming year.