The CIF has called for committed investment in infrastructure in Budget ’25 ahead of its national conference. The federation’s annual conference will take place tomorrow in Croke Park, Dublin.

Speakers will include Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Finance, alongside discussions on foreign direct investment, utilities, transport, housing and planning.

Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation said: “Ireland needs a plan-led approach to infrastructure to ensure critical utilities, such as water, electricity and transport are built to support population growth. In Budget 2025, there must be a greater allocation of ring-fenced capital and maintenance investment in Ireland’s water and wastewater infrastructure with a meaningful commitment to multi-annual budgets.

“At least 60,000 houses a year are needed. The industry cannot build houses at scale without water and electricity infrastructure connections in place.

“Infrastructure that enables foreign direct investment, economic growth and employment is also vital. Lack of such capacity will result in our FDI companies looking elsewhere, which would be a major loss in terms of the further development of our country.

“In building infrastructure that fosters economic growth and supports technological advancements, we cannot afford a limited perspective. Failing to invest in robust data infrastructure risks us falling behind in global competitiveness. To stay ahead, we must create an environment where technology can thrive.”

The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) Annual Conference will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 24th September 2024, at Croke Park, Dublin.

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