Irish Construction Forecast 2024–2026: What it Means for Your Next Move

Irish Construction Forecast 2024–2026: What it Means for Your Next Move

The latest CIS Forecast is out, and the message is clear. Despite global uncertainty, Ireland’s construction sector is holding firm, backed by solid investment, policy support and continued demand across housing, infrastructure and industrial builds.

If you're a senior professional working with an Irish contractor, developer or consultancy, this is what matters.

Housing: Volume is Coming, but Pressure Remains

Housing dominated the sector in 2024, thanks to government levy waivers which drove a spike in project starts. That surge has now slowed, but overall spend for 2025 remains strong at over €14 billion. With 50,000 homes needed annually between now and 2040, the work is there. The question is who will be in place to deliver it.

Public housing is a key focus, with a 33% increase in starts expected this year. Student accommodation and strategic housing developments are also moving again. Anyone with experience in residential delivery, local authority projects or large-scale urban schemes will be in demand.

Infrastructure: Record Budgets, Real Opportunity

A €14 billion tax windfall has led to record infrastructure allocations across water, transport and energy. Civil and utilities work is forecast to grow 27% this year, then a further 23% in both 2026 and 2027. While big money is in play, delivery is the challenge.

Ireland’s track record on large infrastructure projects is patchy. Skilled planners, PMs, site leaders and commercial professionals will be key to unlocking progress and keeping things on track.

Industrial and Pharma: Quiet Confidence

The industrial sector has taken a small dip in 2025, but this is expected to rebound in 2026. Manufacturing investment remains steady, and logistics is seeing a resurgence, particularly around Dublin.

Pharma is still a strong performer despite concerns around US tariffs. The sector continues to rely on Irish capability for regulated builds and high-spec facilities. Experience in cleanrooms, compliance-led delivery or lean construction methods will stand out.

Offices and Retail: Returning to Form

Office starts dropped heavily post-pandemic, but demand for Grade A space is pushing development again. Dublin is leading the charge as companies bring people back to the office and seek quality stock.

Retail continues to grow modestly. Local grocery-led schemes are performing better than larger brand-driven investments. The pace is steady rather than spectacular, but activity is picking up in planning approvals.

Education and Health: Big Budgets, Solid Pipeline

With a €11.8 billion education budget and €25.8 billion for health, these two sectors are firmly in growth territory. Education starts are expected to rise 26% this year, with childcare, school builds, tertiary campus expansions and student accommodation all prioritised.

In health, new hospital and nursing home beds are being delivered across the country. Primary care investment continues, and activity is spread across both urban and regional areas.

If you have a track record in public sector delivery, this is your chance to step up.

Why Breagh Recruitment?

The market is moving. Whether you're managing large civils packages, leading site delivery on housing developments, or ready to step into a senior role on a complex public sector scheme, Breagh Recruitment is already talking to the contractors shaping these projects.

We work with Irish Tier 1s, growing subcontractors, developers, and design consultancies across Ireland and mainland Europe. If you are thinking about your next move, we can help you make the right one.