Labor market participation and growth will be affected by agency work, contributing to European Union (EU) jobs targets, it has been claimed.

According to Eurociett, the European Confederation of Private Employment Agencies, the sector will contribute towards the region's 2020 goals, assisting in particular in the employment of the young and jobless.

"As the most secure form of flexible work, agency work provides a stepping stone to the labor market," the organization's managing director Denis Pennel remarked, adding it is "positioned to make a major contribution in helping Europe exit the current economic crisis" and meet growth targets.

Research published by the body indicated around 80 per cent of the jobs generated by agency work would not have otherwise existed and the industry provides a range of opportunities for disadvantaged and marginalized groups to enter labor markets, as well as vocational training.

The European Council debated the 2020 employment plans outlined by EU commissioner Laszlo Andor in March.