The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has hailed Minister Paudie Coffey as “the long awaited Minister for Construction.” 

Speaking at the CIF Annual Conference which is taking place in the Aviva Stadium, CIF President Philip Crampton pointed out that the industry had been pressing for a designated Minister for some time.

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“For several years the CIF has been calling for a dedicated Minister focused on the construction sector,” Mr. Crampton said.  “We have made the case that there is so much involved in construction policy and the absence of a coordinating figure responsible for the sector means these issues can often fall between two stools.

“It would seem that the Government heard our case.  For in Minister Coffey we finally have the point of contact we were looking for.  The industry has at last been provided with a Minister specifically focused on this industry.  The Minister’s full title may be Minister of State with responsibility for Housing, Planning and the Coordination of the Construction 2020 Strategy.  However within the industry we have a much simpler title for him – Minister for Construction.  An appointment that has been long awaited within the industry. 

“We do not believe that the Minister’s title has received the focus it deserves.  As far as the wider construction industry is concerned in this country however it was a clear statement by the Government of the importance of the industry.  The construction sector employs as many people as the farming sector or the public administration sectors, so this has been a much needed appointment for some time.

“Our industry is looking forward to working hand in hand with Minister Coffey over the coming years to develop and grow.  We know that with the help of the Government and their ongoing support, the construction industry can create thousands of additional jobs, spur on economic activity in towns and villages throughout the country and play its part in the economy’s recovery,” Mr. Crampton concluded.

Minister Coffey was one of the speakers at the CIF Annual Conference.  Other contributors included An Tanaiste, Joan Burton TD, NAMA’s Brendan McDonagh and the State’s Chief Procurement Officer, Mr. Paul Quinn. www.cif.ie