If Glasgow's bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2014 is successful, it could have a big effect on the local recruitment industry, especially for firms dealing with the construction sector.

The bid was welcomed by attendees at Recruiter's regional forum on 30 November, sponsored by JPA and Key Managed Services..

Ian Howarth, branch manager of construction recruiter ABC Contract Services, part of Corporate Services Group, told Recruiter: "The effect on the Glasgow market would be phenomenal, not just in construction, but right across the board. The skills shortages we have now would increase ten-fold."

A decision on which city will host the games is due in November 2007. "You'd see the effect from day one," said Howarth.

Recruiters agreed the effect would not be on the same scale as the Olympics in London, which is already putting a strain on the construction market. Meanwhile, Howarth believes Scotland can hold its own in attracting much-needed workers, especially from Eastern Europe. "Many of them are attracted here because of better living conditions," he said.

Howarth also pointed to the efforts of Scottish Enterprise in attracting workers to Scotland.

The Glasgow Bid Team also predicts economic benefits beyond 2014 if the bid succeed. These include a 4% increase in the number of tourists for three years afterwards.

 • For more on the regional forum, see Recruiter on 10 January, 2007.