In 2026, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs released the first Skills Insight Note of the year, analyzing the labor markets of both Ireland and Northern Ireland. The research, titled 'Cross Border Skills and Commonalities between Ireland and Northern Ireland,' focuses on cross-border workers and identifies similarities in sectoral employment trends, education profiles, and shared skills priorities. The report highlights the importance of critical sectors such as manufacturing, health, and education, along with a reliance on future-oriented skills in digitalization and the green economy. This collaboration aims to address the challenges posed by technological and demographic changes. Moreover, the commuting figures from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland have significantly increased over the past decade, which, although still representing a small portion of the workforce, reflects the shared economic strengths and opportunities present in both regions. The findings underscore the need for effective cooperation between both jurisdictions, as noted by Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment. He emphasized the importance of insight into labor market links and shared challenges, aiding efforts to plan for sustainable enterprise growth and long-term competitiveness. Niamh Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, also commented on the findings, which further demonstrate that shared skills priorities, sectoral strengths, and a growing level of cross-border commuting exist. The intricate connection of labor markets can pave the way for addressing mutual skills challenges through coordinated policies. In response to health challenges, a significant project called OneHealth, valued at €9.85 million, was recently initiated in Belfast to leverage AI and digital approaches in addressing pressing health and agrifood concerns. This cross-border project, running for four years, involves partnerships between various institutions, including Catalyst, Atlantic Technology University, Queen’s University Belfast, Health Innovation Research Alliance Northern Ireland, Tyndall National Institute Cork, and the University of Galway. These collaborations highlight the importance of addressing public health through cooperation and shared resources, enhancing the overall economic landscape of both Ireland and Northern Ireland.