The report provides a comprehensive insight and a number of key findings into various aspects of the construction and built environment sector including costs, planning, skills, productivity and sustainability.
The report highlights a variety of positive trends in the construction sector in 2022 and 2023, including:
There were over 41,000 planning permissions for housing units in 2023; an increase of 21% over 2022.
17,601 homes were upgraded to a BER rating of B2 or above in 2023; an increase of 108% relative to 2022.
Construction and construction-related apprentice registrations increased by 3% and 2% respectively in 2023, relative to 2022.
The report also outlines a number of initiatives that the public and private sectors have underway to increase the efficiency and productivity of the construction sector as it responds to the significant challenges of recent years, such as COVID-19 restrictions, inflationary pressures, and supply chain disruptions.
Furthermore, inflationary pressure is easing across many construction materials and the number of apprentices in the construction sector exceeded 20,000 in 2023, which is ensuring that the pipeline of skilled workers in the sector continues to grow.
Project Ireland 2040 necessitates a competitive, dynamic and sustainable construction sector capable of delivering new social, economic and climate resilient infrastructure. To achieve this outcome, the construction sector must foster an innovative and sustainable approach capable of meeting the needs of our growing population.
Publishing the report, Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe said:
“Build 2024 shows that collaboration between the public and private sectors continues to increase the efficiency and productivity of the construction sector. It is vital to maintain the existing momentum and focus on measures that can assist in removed bottlenecks to delivering on the priorities outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP).
“This report provides an evidence base that will enable approaches such as Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to increase the output of the construction industry. Evidence suggests that an MMC approach to building has the potential to increase the speed of delivery of new homes, reduce costs, and advance improvements in quality and energy efficiency.
“Government is investing €165 billion up to 2030 under the NDP, and this report provides a very useful insight into the trends and initiatives underway to increase productivity through innovation and digital adoption to meet our NDP delivery ambitions.”
P J Rudden, Chair of the CSG Sub-Group, stated:
“I welcome the Build 2024 Report, which builds on our increasing innovation and digital adoption ambition to accelerate delivery in design and construction of projects. We have included Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the scope of consulting services for major project values of €100 million and more since 1 January 2024. Over the next four years, BIM requirements will cascade down to projects below €1 million. BIM delivers projects to a higher quality and safety level, reduces waste and can deliver projects in a more timely manner.”
Construction has begun on the Narrow Water Bridge in County Louth.
The landmark Narrow Water Bridge is a longstanding commitment of the Government, reflected in the Programme for Government and New Decade, New Approach agreement. An allocation of €102m + VAT is being made from the Shared Island Fund for the contract to deliver this project.
This ambitious infrastructure project will provide new tourism and connectivity potential to the east border region and is anticipated to aid local economic development by increasing employment levels and visitor footfall. It will be a lynchpin connection for cross-border active travel and recreational activities in the Carlingford Lough region including greenways, mountain bike trails, walking routes and beaches.
When complete, the 195m cable-stayed bridge will connect Cornamucklagh near Omeath, Co Louth with Narrow Water near Warrenpoint, Co. Down, providing a direct link between the Mourne Mountains and the Cooley Peninsula, where Carlingford Lough meets the Newry River. It is designed for vehicular, cycle and pedestrian traffic and will connect the A2 Newry to Warrenpoint dual carriageway with the R173 Omeath. It will also have the ability to open to allow for the passage of ships through and on to the Newry Canal.
Taoiseach Simon Harris TD said:
“The Shared Island Unit was set up by the coalition for this very reason - to bring about visionary projects for the whole island that had long been sought after but not yet realised. I want to pay tribute to the communities and politicians from all parties and none in both Ireland and Northern Ireland who campaigned for a Narrow Water Bridge for decades. The mountains meet the sea all along this stretch of stunning coastline and this bridge will be a game-changer for commerce, daily life and tourism in this part of our shared island.”
Tánaiste Micheál Martin said:
“When I first established the Shared Island Unit in the Department of the Taoiseach, there was one project that was always front and centre of my mind - the Narrow Water Bridge. This project is a clear physical manifestation of the philosophy underpinning Shared Island. It embodies our ambition for reconciliation, a closer relationship between North and South, and progress. Today is the realisation of a vision long shared across this stretch of water, delivering on the desire of both communities to reach out, to connect and to grow together.”
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD said:
“In linking the Mourne Mountains in Co. Down with the Cooley Peninsula in Co. Louth, this bridge will serve not just as a physical infrastructure project but a symbol of community, togetherness and hope. It is funded by the Shared Island Fund, and it embodies the vision, values, and purpose of that fund perfectly.”
Minister of State Malcom Noonan TD said:
“The project is already creating new opportunities and deepening connections between communities on both sides of the border. It is a testament to Louth County Council and officials in my own department and one that will endure as an outstretched hand of friendship between communities.”
Chief Executive of Louth County Council Joan Martin said:
“I am delighted to welcome the commencement of works at the Narrow Water Bridge site, a project which will provide an unprecedented boost to the cross-border region as a whole. It has been a long-standing strategic priority for Louth County Council, which will deliver a key piece of infrastructure, improving access to the wealth of tourist attractions we have in this area. This historic bridge will stand as a symbol of the connections that bind communities north and south.”
Jacobs has announced the creation of 100 jobs over the next two years in Ireland, at the official opening of its new state-of-the-art office in Sandyford, Dublin. The office opening, officiated by Minister for Finance Michael McGrath TD, also coincides with Jacobs celebrating 50 years in Ireland.
Jacobs is the largest provider of engineering, procurement, construction management and commissioning, qualification and validation services in Ireland, employing more than 1,200 people in Dublin, Cork and Belfast. The new roles, in engineering, project management, construction management, commissioning and qualification, will be created over two years and support projects in high-growth sectors including critical infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and semiconductors.
During the past 50 years, Jacobs has supported the delivery of more than €50 billion worth of award-winning critical infrastructure projects for clients in Ireland – cementing Ireland’s position as a center of excellence for complex advanced manufacturing and R&D and supporting transformational economic growth.
Minister for Finance Michael McGrath TD says: : “Jacobs has delivered countless major manufacturing and infrastructure projects that have been central to Ireland’s economic success and societal progress over the last 50 years. The company has a stellar track record and has rightly been acknowledged with numerous awards for the quality and innovation that is a hallmark of its work. As Jacobs embarks on its latest chapter, I am delighted to open their new office in Dublin and announce 100 new jobs in Ireland to support its continued growth in Ireland and internationally.”
“Jacobs decided to grow beyond the US for the first time in 1974, and we selected Dublin with the IDA’s support,” says Jacobs CEO Bob Pragada. "The business has grown from four or five key people to a team of 1,200 people in that time. Although we're a global business, our operation here is an Irish success story. We have huge confidence in Ireland, and we are ambitious for our continued business growth here andare committed to building skills for the future and investing in a new office in Dublin.”
IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan says:“Today’s announcement provides an opportunity to reflect on the close and enduring partnership between Jacobs and IDA Ireland. Since opening its office in Dublin 50 years ago, Jacobs has been a leader in advanced manufacturing in Ireland. IDA Ireland looks forward to continuing to work closely with Jacobs and supporting them to deliver sustainable growth and investment aimed at furthering the modernization of critical infrastructure and unlocking opportunities in the life sciences and semiconductor sectors.”
Jacobs also has an extensive history with the life sciences sector in Ireland, supporting many of the country’s main manufacturing bases including recent projects such as the Edwards Lifesciences Greenfield Manufacturing Facility in Limerick.
Jacobs has received multiple awards for its contribution to the life sciences industry in Ireland and abroad. Most recently, the 2024 Irish Building & Design Awards recognized Jacobs as Construction/Project Management Firm of the Year. The Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) Awards also recognized Jacobs’ work on Edwards Lifesciences as Industrial Project of the Year in 2022.
The Construction Jobs Expo held on Saturday, 18th May 2024, at the RDS in Dublin drew a large crowd of job seekers, industry professionals, and construction enthusiasts.
The event, which offered free admission, is dedicated to showcasing the wide range of opportunities within the construction sector, featuring hundreds of job openings both locally and internationally.
The Expo attracted a diverse group of attendees, ranging from recent graduates and career changers to seasoned professionals looking to advance their careers.
Exhibitors represented a broad spectrum of the construction industry, providing attendees with opportunities to explore various career paths and engage directly with potential employers.
Cairn Homes, a leading Irish homebuilder known for constructing high-quality residential properties, focus on innovation, sustainability, and creating vibrant communities.
Centum Engineering offer a range of engineering services, specializing in electrical and instrumentation projects, delivering complex solutions across various industries.
Designer Group, an international engineering solutions provider, offer mechanical and electrical services across the commercial, industrial, and technology sectors.
JMG Solutions provide recruitment and staffing services, specializing in placing skilled professionals in engineering, construction, and technical roles across various industries.
King & Moffatt, a multi-award-winning mechanical and electrical contractor, deliver comprehensive building services and solutions across multiple sectors in Ireland and Europe.
The Land Development Agencyfocus on the strategic development of public lands in Ireland, aiming to increase the supply of affordable housing and sustainable urban development.
Leo Lynch, a renowned engineering and contracting firm, provide mechanical, electrical, and process engineering services, known for its expertise in complex industrial projects.
Moving2Australia.com.au offer comprehensive relocation services and advice for individuals and families planning to move to Australia, specializing in job placement and settlement support.
Nightcourses.com, Ireland's leading online directory for part-time courses, evening classes, and adult education, help individuals enhance their skills and career prospects.
Pentacon Pty Ltd., an Irish-led, Australian-based construction company, deliver high-quality commercial and residential projects with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
Recruit.ie, a premier recruitment agency in Ireland, connect job seekers with top employers across various industries, offering a wide range of staffing solutions.
Sensori FMprovide comprehensive facilities management services, ensuring efficient and sustainable management of building operations and maintenance.
Skanstec Engineering Ltd. specialize in providing engineering and construction services, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Suir Engineering, a leading provider of mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation services, deliver high-quality engineering solutions for complex projects across various sectors.
TLI Group, a leading utility infrastructure consultancy and construction company, specialize in the design, build, and maintenance of essential utility networks.
Tyrone Groupoffer comprehensive construction services, including project management, design, and build solutions, renowned for delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget.
Walls Construction is known for its expertise in delivering large-scale commercial, residential, and public infrastructure projects.
Ward Personnel, a leading recruitment agency, provide skilled labour and professional staff to the construction and engineering industries, ensuring clients received top-tier workforce solutions.
The Agenda Stage
The Agenda Stage was a focal point of the expo, featuring a series of engaging and informative talks by industry experts.
What Tech Jobs are Available within the Construction Sector?
Luke Treacy from Dublin CODING School highlighted the integration of technology in construction, emphasizing roles such as digital modeling, project management software, and innovative tech-driven solutions. Attendees learned about the growing demand for tech-savvy professionals in the industry.
Building the Lucky Country with Moving2Australia
Gearóid Considine from Moving2Australia.com.au provided insights into the construction boom in Australia, detailing the opportunities available for skilled workers and the benefits of working in the Australian construction industry.
Suir Academy Apprentice Training Programme
Christopher Lawless of Suir Engineering discussed the Suir Academy Apprentice Training Programme, highlighting its hands-on approach and the mentorship provided to apprentices. This session was particularly popular among young attendees looking to enter the industry.
Organizational Culture: Why it Matters in Your Job Search
Joel Dupont from Guidewire emphasized the importance of organizational culture in job satisfaction and career success. He provided practical advice on how to identify and align with a company’s culture during the job search process.
A Day in the Life at the LDA
Robert Farrell from the Land Development Agency gave an engaging overview of daily operations at the Land Development Agency, shedding light on the various projects and career opportunities available within the organization.
A Career in Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Infrastructure: An Inclusive & Diverse Journey
Ann Spellacy from Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail - Infrastructure Management shared her experiences and the inclusive, diverse career paths available at Iarnród Éireann. Her talk inspired many to consider a career in rail infrastructure.
Leadership Development & Management Skills
Raquel Pinto, a career and leadership coach, provided valuable tips on developing leadership and management skills, essential for career advancement in the construction industry.
Careers in Construction: Tips on Starting & Progressing
Stephen Byrne from Change Guidance offered practical advice on entering and progressing in the construction industry, addressing common challenges and providing strategies for career growth.
Navigating Change. Where do I begin?
Pat Finnerty from Vocation Wellness discussed strategies for navigating career changes and adapting to new industry trends, providing attendees with tools to manage transitions effectively.
Mental Health in the Engineering / Construction Industry
Lorraine Cormack from Skanstec Engineering Ltd addressed the importance of mental health in the construction and engineering sectors, highlighting support systems and practices to promote well-being in the workplace.
Attendees praised the Expo for its comprehensive coverage of career opportunities and the quality of the seminars. Many found the event to be highly informative and inspiring, providing them with the knowledge and connections needed to advance their careers. Exhibitors reported a high level of engagement and expressed optimism about the potential hires they interacted with.
The Construction Jobs Expo continues to provide a valuable platform for job seekers and employers to connect and highlights the vibrant and growing opportunities within the construction industry, reinforcing its importance as a career destination.
The Construction Jobs Expo is organised by Jobs Expo, Ireland’s leading jobs and recruitment fairs. Its mission is to put skilled professionals directly in contact with leading employers from Ireland and abroad.
The next Jobs Expo careers fair will take place at UCC's Devere Hall in Cork on Saturday, 25th May, 2024.
We are proud to have Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail - Infrastructure Management as sponsors of our Construction Jobs Expo 2024 careers fair. Their team will be front of house in the RDS' Industries Hall this Saturday from 10am until 4pm. Furthermore, their HR Manager, Ann Spellacy, will be giving her seminar, A Career in Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Infrastructure Management: An Inclusive & Diverse Journey, at 1pm on the Agenda Stage. Don't forget to register to get FREE ACCESS to the Exhibitor Hall, Career Clinic and Agenda Stage seminars. Get tickets here.
Established in 1987 Iarnród Éireann is a subsidiary of Córas Iompair Éireann, providing passenger (45.5 million passenger journeys in 2023) and freight rail services as well as operating Rosslare Europort.
With over 4,700 employees divided into 3 principal operating units.
Infrastructure Management – (Maintenance & renewal of track, structures, Buildings. Traffic control operations)
The infrastructure Management has over 1,870 employees which comprises of Multi discipline Engineers, Programme & Project Managers, Technical Support, Planners, Quantity Surveyors, Platelayers (Track Labour), Electricians, Apprentices, Graduates, Signal & Level Crossing Operators, Traffic Controllers, Safety, Finance, Human Resources.
The Infrastructure department is responsible for the maintenance and renewal of:
2,400km of operational track
100km of electrified track
145 stations
4,440 bridges
13 tunnels
970 level crossings
In addition to the programme of maintenance and renewals, infrastructure is involved in supporting all major projects such as:
DART+ Expansion
TPS (Track Protection System)
NTCC (National Train Control Centre)
CACR (Cork Area Commuter Rail)
Limerick Regeneration
Athenry/Galway Projects
Iarnród Éireann has been chosen by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications as a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champion, implementing a focused sustainability strategy (Sustainability in Motion 2024 – 2030) aiming to reduce environmental impacts while improving climate resilience.
They place sustainability not only at the heart of the service and infrastructure they deliver, but also at the heart of how they deliver them.
Iarnród Éireann also has dedicated departments for Health & Wellbeing, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) and Talent Management.
Listed in the Top 100 companies leading in Wellbeing 2023
Silver award for Investors in Diversity
As part of their people strategy they run regular training & development programmes such as Women in Leadership, High potential, Accelerated leadership, Graduate and Apprentice Programmes.
Which form part of the reason Iarnród Éireann was voted 3rd best employer in Ireland 2023 (Sunday Independent)
Looking to gain valuable insights and guidance for your career in the construction industry? Look no further than the The Agenda Stage at this weekend's Construction Jobs Expo taking place on Saturday, 18th May, 2024 at the RDS, Dublin from 10am-4pm.
This careers fair is dedicated to the construction sector and will feature hundreds of active job opportunities. Construction Jobs Expo is the only careers exhibition of its type to feature FREE ADMISSION.
Alongside the exhibitors at the Expo is The Agenda Stage featuring a diverse lineup of speakers covering a range of topics crucial for professional development within the construction sector.
From exploring tech jobs in construction to understanding the importance of organizational culture in your job search, these sessions promise to be informative and insightful.
Radio and TV presenter, Trishauna Archer will be the event compère for the day. Trishauna Archer is a radio and television presenter, voice-over artist, MC, and actress. For the past decade, Trish woke up listeners across the South East every morning as host of the multi-award-winning Beat Breakfast. More recently she presented night time talk show 'Room 104' on FM104. She is also the station voice on iRadio.
10:30 - 11:00
What Tech Jobs are Available within the Construction Sector?
Luke Treacy from Dublin CODING School will delve into the exciting world of technology within the construction industry. Discover the various tech roles available, from digital modeling to project management software, and how they are shaping the future of construction.
11:00 - 11:30
Building the Lucky Country with Moving2Australia
Gearóid Considine from Moving2Australia.com.au will discuss opportunities for construction professionals in Australia. Learn about the booming construction industry Down Under and explore the possibilities of building your career in this lucky country.
Christopher Lawless of Suir Engineering will provide insights into apprenticeship opportunities in the construction sector. Discover how the Suir Academy Apprentice Training Programme can kickstart your career in construction through hands-on learning and mentorship.
12:00 - 12:30
Organizational Culture: Why it Matters in Your Job Search
Joel Dupont from Guidewire will highlight the importance of organizational culture in your job search. Understand how company culture influences employee satisfaction and success, and learn how to find the right cultural fit for your career aspirations.
12:30 - 13:00
A Day in the Life at the LDA
Robert Farrell from the Land Development Agency will offer a glimpse into a typical day working at the LDA. Explore the diverse projects and responsibilities involved in land development, and gain valuable insights into this dynamic sector.
13:00 - 13:30
A Career in Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Infrastructure Management: An Inclusive & Diverse Journey.
Ann Spellacy from Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail - Infrastructure Management will share her journey and insights into building a career in rail infrastructure. Discover the inclusive and diverse opportunities available within Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail and learn how you can be part of this journey.
13:30 - 14:00
Leadership Development & Management Skills
Raquel Pinto, a career and leadership coach, will discuss essential leadership development and management skills for success in the construction industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional or aspiring leader, this session will provide valuable strategies for personal and professional growth.
14:00 - 14:30
Careers in Construction: Tips on Starting & Progressing
Stephen Byrne from Change Guidance will provide practical tips on starting and progressing your career in construction. From entry-level positions to advancement opportunities, discover how to navigate the construction job market and achieve your career goals.
14:30 - 15:00
Navigating Change. Where do I begin?
Pat Finnerty from Vocation Wellness will guide attendees on navigating change in their careers. Whether you're considering a career transition or seeking to adapt to industry changes, this session will provide valuable insights and strategies for embracing change and finding your path forward.
15:00 - 15:15
Mental Health in the Engineering / Construction Industry
Lorraine Cormack from Skanstec Engineering will shed light on mental health in the engineering and construction industry. Learn about the unique challenges faced by professionals in these fields and explore strategies for promoting mental well-being in the workplace.
Whether you're just starting out in the industry or looking to advance your career, don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from industry experts.
The excitement is growing as we approach this weekend's Construction Jobs Expo - the only place to be for job seekers, industry professionals and construction enthusiasts.
Whether you're keen to explore the array of job opportunities within the construction field, or looking to seek career advice from experts, or curious about the latest industry trends, secure your FREE admission here for the Construction Jobs Expo.
This Saturday 18th May, Dublin's RDS will transform into a hub for all things construction. Running from 10 am to 4 pm, attendees will have the chance to connect with employers recruiting for national and international positions within the industry. No matter what role you're seeking, you'll find opportunities to begin or advance your career in this vibrant sector.
Alongside the exhibitors, The Agenda Stage will host talks and seminars featuring a diverse lineup of speakers on topics such as tech roles in construction, leadership development, opportunities abroad, apprenticeship programs and mental health awareness in the industry and lots more! Get insights, practical tips and network with players shaping the future of construction.
Make sure you don't overlook this chance to advance your career. Book your spot now at Ireland's top construction job fair.
The clock is ticking – 4 days remaining until the RDS turns into a centre of opportunities, creativity and motivation at the Construction Jobs Expo.
Looking forward to meeting you!
What can you expect at Construction Jobs Expo ?
Employers actively recruiting for hundreds of jobs at home and abroad
Specialised areas dedicated to jobs in the construction and engineering sectors.
Opportunities to gain valuable career guidance.
A packed seminar timetable on important and topical issues by a range of industry experts
Construction Jobs Expo is returning to Dublin in Spring 2024! This careers fair will take place on Saturday, 18th May (10am-4pm) at the RDS. This careers fair will be dedicated to the construction sector and will feature hundreds of active job opportunities . Construction Jobs Expo is the only careers exhibition of its type to feature FREE ADMISSION.
What can you expect at Construction Jobs Expo ?
Employers actively recruiting for hundreds of jobs at home and abroad
Specialised areas dedicated to jobs in the construction and engineering sectors.
Opportunities to gain valuable career guidance.
A packed seminar timetable on important and topical issues by a range of industry experts
Agenda Stage
Construction Jobs Expo's Agenda Stage will host talks on a variety of topics including jobseeking skills such as using social media to land your dream job and interview techniques as well as a CV writing workshop. Other seminars include talks by industry insiders on a variety of career topics.
We look forward to seeing you at Construction Jobs Expo !
The BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland Construction Index is a tool used to measure and assess the level of activity within the construction sector in Ireland. It provides valuable insights into the current state of the construction industry, offering key indicators and trends that can help stakeholders make informed decisions.
The index works by collecting data from various sources within the construction sector, including surveys of construction companies, industry experts, and official statistics. This data is then analyzed and compiled to produce a numerical index value, which reflects the level of activity within the sector.
The index typically takes into account factors such as construction output, new orders, employment levels, and business sentiment. By tracking changes in these variables over time, the index provides a comprehensive overview of the health and performance of the construction industry.
Stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, and industry professionals, rely on the BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland Construction Index to gauge the strength of the construction sector, identify emerging trends, and assess the overall economic outlook. Additionally, the index serves as a valuable tool for forecasting future developments and planning strategic initiatives within the construction industry.
Stay up to date with the latest from Construction Jobs Expo
Radio and TV presenter, Trishauna Archer will be the event compère for the day. Trishauna Archer is a radio and television presenter, voice-over artist, MC, and actress. For the past decade, Trish woke up listeners across the South East every morning as host of the multi-award-winning Beat Breakfast. More recently she presented night time talk show 'Room 104' on FM104. She is also the station voice on iRadio.
