Work needed to address ageing public sector workforce, Keys told

Criticism over lack of apprenticeships on offer with government

The average age of public sector employees is 45, prompting concerns about the need to attract younger workers to ensure the long-term sustainability of services.

In the House of Keys, Minister without Portfolio Tim Crookall revealed that while the average age of new starters is lower, at 37, more still needs to be done to rebalance the workforce.

He confirmed the age profile is viewed as a ‘major challenge’ and that a new People Strategy is being developed to address the issue.

The strategy is believed to include action plans and a dedicated recruitment workstream to target the ageing workforce.

Consultation has already taken place with the Chief Officer Group and the Public Services Commission, with the Office of Human Resources to play a key role in delivery.

Mr Crookall said government departments are also focused on improving productivity through process digitisation and the introduction of artificial intelligence tools such as Microsoft Copilot, which he believes could reduce future recruitment needs. However, he acknowledges the importance of maintaining balance across the workforce:

Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper raised concerns that average age statistics could mask specific challenges in certain areas. He pointed to the Public Services Commission report, which shows the average age of a craftsman is 65, and argues that AI is unlikely to replace the need for skilled front-line workers.

Mr Crookall confirmed there are currently 10 full-time-equivalent apprentices in post across the public service, with nine vacancies, and describes apprenticeships as "absolutely essential" and praised private businesses for taking on trainees.

However, Mr Hooper suggested the numbers were ‘stark’ given the size of the workforce, which totals more than 4,000 full-time equivalent posts. Mr Crookall agreed it was a "very low figure”.

Manx Radio has been speaking with Mr Hooper:

Onchan MHK Rob Callister says there needs to be more promoting of government apprenticeship schemes, especially for young people leaving care: