Construction's Problem Isn’t the Work – It’s the People

The construction sector in Ireland is gearing up for major national projects. We’re talking about 300,000 new homes by 2030, 500,000 energy upgrades, and billions in public infrastructure spend. But there’s one big issue holding it back.

We don’t have enough people to do the work.

According to industry research, 63% of construction companies are struggling to recruit. Not just for specialists or niche digital roles - but for core positions like bricklayers, engineers, site managers, and health and safety officers. For jobseekers, that’s not a problem. That’s an opportunity.

The Reality on Site

Let’s be clear. The industry has bounced back well since Covid. Projects are moving. Contracts are being signed. Many firms are planning to grow. But there’s still a gap between what needs to happen, and the people available to do it.

The government’s Housing for All plan needs around 33,000 new homes each year. And the National Retrofit Plan aims to bring over 500,000 homes up to energy standards. These are big targets. And to get there, we need thousands of additional workers, from general operatives to supervisors and tradespeople.

Why This Matters to You

Whether you’re starting out or have years of experience, here’s what this means for your career:

• You’re in demand: Employers are competing for the same talent, and that’s putting good workers in a strong position.

• Upskilling pays off: Retrofitting, green building, digital tools – these are the areas growing fastest. If you’re trained in them, your value goes up.

• Long-term work is on the table: These aren’t short-term projects. Housing and infrastructure builds will span the rest of the decade.

• Firms want to hire – they just can’t find people: Now is the time to make yourself visible, certified and ready to start.

What’s Missing?

Part of the challenge is perception. The research shows that many people still see construction as a ‘last-choice’ career. That’s outdated thinking. Today’s construction industry includes data roles, environmental specialists, BIM technicians, project planners and more. It’s not just about boots on concrete - it’s about building the future.

Employers are also facing rising costs and short-term pressures. Some are holding back on tech or innovation investments, and smaller firms are finding it harder to compete. But that doesn’t change the fact that Ireland needs people who can build, now and in the years ahead.

What You Can Do Next

1. Get site-ready – If you don’t have your Safe Pass or certs, now’s the time.

2. Upskill where it counts – Retrofitting, green construction and digital tools like BIM are where the work is heading.

3. Think long-term – These national programmes mean there’s secure work on the horizon.

4. Talk to a recruiter who knows your industry – At Breagh Recruitment, we work with companies who are hiring now, and planning for what’s next.
   
   

Let’s build your next move
If you want consistent, long-term work in construction, or you’re ready to step into a more future-facing role, we’re here to help.

About Breagh Recruitment

Breagh Recruitment is a specialist agency for permanent construction and engineering roles across Ireland, the UK and Europe. With over 20 years of industry experience, we support contractors, consultancies and developers in building strong, project-ready teams. From site engineers and BIM managers to project leads and site managers, we place people who know how to deliver. We take the time to understand each brief properly and offer a straight-talking, relationship-led recruitment service that prioritises long-term fit over short-term fixes.