Skills required

I noted with interest the survey undertaken by the CBI which indicated that half of employers fear they will be unable to fill jobs with suitably qualified candidates as demand for skilled staff increases during the economic recovery (your report, 17 May).

Skills development is vital to the productivity and economic development of Scotland and it is organisations such as ours – articulating the voice of 90 per cent of the UK's workforce on skills issues – working closely with the Scottish Government, employers, universities and colleges that are vital in ensuring the delivery of a skilled workforce, securing economic recovery and meeting identified demand.

Key future growth sectors include energy, construction and the services sector, and a skilled workforce is vital to meet the demands of both current and future economic growth, especially as we embrace new sectors such as renewables.

Individuals require the knowledge and skills to perform in a constantly changing world, and we are working closely with key bodies and organisations to ensure employers have access to individuals with the right skills at the right time.

JACQUI HEPBURN

Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, Scotland

Castle Street

Edinburgh