The Irish Construction Industry: A Growing Sector with a Need for Talent

The construction industry in Ireland has been on a steady growth trajectory over the past 5 years. In 2019, the sector generated €27 billion in output, accounting for 10% of Ireland's Gross National Income (GNI). This growth is expected to continue in the coming years, with the industry forecast to grow by 7.8% in 2022.

This growth is being driven by a number of factors, including:

A strong economy: The Irish economy has been growing steadily in recent years, and this is creating demand for new construction projects.

Increased investment in infrastructure: The Irish government is investing heavily in infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and water treatment plants. This is creating a significant amount of work for the construction industry.

Rising demand for housing: The population of Ireland is growing, and this is driving demand for new housing.

The growth of the construction industry is creating a need for skilled workers. In 2020, there were an estimated 148,300 people employed in the construction sector in Ireland. However, this number is expected to grow in the coming years, as the industry continues to expand.

The construction industry is a diverse sector, and there are a wide range of roles available. Some of the most in-demand roles include:

Bricklayers

Carpenters

Electricians

Plumbers

Glaziers

Quantity surveyors

Engineers

Architects

If you are interested in a career in the construction industry, there are a number of things you can do to prepare. First, you should get the necessary training and qualifications. There are a number of courses available, both at technical colleges and universities. Second, you should build up your experience. You can do this by volunteering or working as a casual laborer. Finally, you should network with people in the industry. This will help you to get your foot in the door.

The construction industry is a dynamic and rewarding sector. If you are looking for a career with good job prospects, the construction industry is a great option.

Here are some additional thoughts on the recruitment challenges facing the Irish construction industry:

The skills shortage: The construction industry is facing a skills shortage, as there are not enough qualified workers to meet the demand for new projects. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce and the lack of training programs.

The need for diversity: The construction industry is also facing a diversity challenge. The workforce is predominantly male, and there is a lack of representation from minority groups. This is a problem, as it limits the pool of talent available to the industry.

The need for innovation: The construction industry is also facing an innovation challenge. The industry is slow to adopt new technologies, and this is holding back productivity.

These are just some of the challenges facing the Irish construction industry. However, the industry is also facing a number of opportunities. The growth of the economy and the increasing demand for infrastructure are creating a need for new construction projects. The industry is also becoming more internationalized, as Irish companies are winning contracts overseas.

The future of the Irish construction industry looks bright. The industry is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities that are available. However, the industry will need to address the challenges it faces in order to continue to grow and thrive.