The Irish construction sector plays a crucial role in laying the groundwork for a smart economy that attracts and retains inward investment. Its exceptional expertise in creating modern, sustainable infrastructure is a key driver of this success. The contribution of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the Irish economy is far reaching and it is estimated that 20% of all private sector employment in the State is directly or indirectly attributable to FDI. A recent success story of the Irish construction industry has been the growth if its strong global reputation for the development of data centres. The specific expertise held by Irish construction companies in building complex, secure facilities for big tech has positioned Ireland as a key player in the global construction market for high tech facilities and been an important factor in the success of Ireland’s digital economy. It has also been an important factor in the success of Ireland’s digital economy, underpinning Ireland’s ability to attract inward investment, foster economic growth, and advance technology.

This panel will discuss:

• emergence of Irish construction as a key player in the global tech industry
• emerging trends on construction for tech and future developments
• how Ireland can harness this home-grown expertise to its full advantage to boost growth, jobs and productivity
• experience of big tech companies in developing facilities in Ireland

• importance of pro-enterprise policy and an attractive business environment to support our reputation as a great place to do business 
• expediting critical infrastructure investments to futureproof FDI
• developing and nurturing talent so that we remain an attractive destination for internationally mobile, highly skilled people

with Ivan Yates

The construction industry has a major role to play in facilitating the provision of energy efficient, low carbon infrastructure and utilities and support infrastructure. It has to support the industry to innovate to decarbonise the energy sector in order to contribute to a national target of zero net emissions of greenhouse gases in Ireland by 2050.  This panel will explore how the built environment needs to make the transition to energy efficiency now if we’re going to secure a better future for all:

• how can we address the critical pillars of ESG, corporate sustainability obligations and develop business strategies, plans and actions?
• how can we tackle the energy and environmental challenges of population growth?
• how can we expedite the delivery of sustainable infrastructure whilst also decarbonising construction?
• what are the most sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to improve transportation infrastructure?
• what tech innovations and key trends are shaping a greener future for construction?

Delivering a better quality of life, supporting economic growth and respecting the environment.

Ireland reached a significant milestone in 2023, as its population exceeded five million people. This demographic shift carries profound implications for the country’s economic landscape, including labour force dynamics and infrastructure. Our economy is also thriving and last year, despite global challenges, it was the fastest growing in Europe, with GDP growth of 12.2%. These dynamics underscore the need for strategic planning and policy initiatives to ensure we can accommodate the growing nation, while fostering sustainable economic prosperity. 

• how can we increase investment in the people, processes and technology that support the planning system. 
• what are the challenges and opportunities for housing delivery in Ireland?
• how can the Government prioritise its streamlining processes within planning and delivery bodies, so that we can expedite infrastructure and housing delivery?
• what is the impact of the revised National Planning Framework (NPF)? 
• reviewing the National Development Plan – is it reflective of the recent population growth and the inflationary pressures of recent years?

Sarah Ingle talks to Ivan Yates about ensuring increased quality of building construction and a safeguarding of standards across the sector

In the dynamic landscape of the construction industry, upskilling the current workforce holds paramount importance. As technologies evolve and advance, empowering our construction professionals with new skills and knowledge is a strategic necessity. This panel will discuss the CIF Careers in Construction Action Plan, how it is educating the workforce of the future on offsite manufacturing and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and how it is driving progress in this space to enable efficiency in time and cost, and high quality outcomes.

·       Topics include:

·       educating the workforce of the future

·       the impact of new techniques and methods on construction education

·       the role of youth in sustainable development

·       increasing pathways into construction

·       ensuring a diverse and inclusive work culture

·       futuristic technologies, the impact of AI, the effect of technology on the jobs market