The construction sector has approximately 54,400 fewer workers than at its 2007 peak. Photograph: Getty ImagesThe Irish construction sector will need to add between 95,000 and 110,000 additional workers to meet Government housing targets, according to an industry report. Property Industry Ireland (PII), the Ibec trade association representing the property sector, has published a new skills report examining the future workforce requirements for housing and critical infrastructure. The sector, which employs more than 177,600 workers, has approximately 54,400 fewer workers than at its 2007 peak, a deficit exacerbated by the exodus of talent following the 2008 financial crash. “The sector is currently exporting trained talent to international markets where project returns are higher,” it said.

Source: The Irish Times February 26, 2026 09:03 UTC