Joanne Treacy is the Construction Industry Federation’s Director for the southern and eastern regions
As Ireland faces the challenges of a growing population and evolving economic demands, infrastructure delivery emerges as the top priority for the next 12 months and beyond.
Addressing this issue is not only essential for the immediate future but also critical for long-term regional and national development. Essential infrastructure – roads, rail, water services, power, and public buildings – is the foundation for economic growth and regional competitiveness.
Without these key elements, Ireland’s ability to meet both current and future needs will be severely limited. The government must take decisive action to prioritise infrastructure as the cornerstone of its policies.
This focus requires strategic planning that goes beyond short-term fixes and looks toward medium and long-term objectives.
The newly-signed Planning and Development Bill and the upcoming National Planning Framework (NPF) revision will be pivotal in shaping this landscape.
Signed into law in November, the Planning and Development Bill will begin its phased roll-out in 2025. Similarly, the revised NPF, expected to be finalised next year, will serve as a roadmap for addressing critical issues like serviced and serviceable zoned land.
In the southern region, which stretches from Kerry to Wicklow significant projects underline the pressing need for infrastructure investment.
The Adare Bypass in Limerick, the Shannon Foynes Railway Line, and Waterford’s North Quays project highlight the transformative potential of enhanced infrastructure in unlocking economic activity and regional prosperity.
These projects also underscore the necessity of moving beyond piecemeal solutions toward comprehensive, long term planning.
With Cork being the fastest growing city in Ireland, it plays a key role in the economy of the southern region. Targeted, strategic infrastructure investment and delivery are essential to facilitate and enhance the ongoing economic development and population growth of this region.
The Events Centre is symptomatic of the issues in Cork in relation to critical infrastructure delivery. Commitment to deliver strategic projects such as the M20 Cork to Limerick motorway, the M28 motorway, N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton upgrade, and Cork’s Light Rail are vital to build the region’s competitiveness and further contribute to its progress as a true economic counterweight.
Regional events like Southern Construct, along with other conferences planned for the South East and Mid West, provide valuable platforms for stakeholders to collaborate and strategise.
With dates already secured for 2025, these events are instrumental in fostering dialogue and ensuring that diverse regional needs are addressed. However, progress hinges on more than just planning, policy reforms are equally crucial.
Local authorities must be granted greater autonomy to make timely decisions and reduce unnecessary delays. Streamlining approval processes will empower regions to act swiftly and effectively.
At the national level, the government must ensure consistent policies and sustained investment, providing the construction industry with a clear pipeline of work.
Looking ahead, Ireland is at a critical juncture. The opportunities for growth and development are immense, but they require bold and decisive action. By addressing infrastructure deficiencies, streamlining planning processes, and empowering local authorities, Ireland can lay the groundwork for sustained growth and prosperity.
These changes are not just about meeting immediate needs – they are about ensuring that Ireland is prepared to compete on a global stage, both regionally and nationally.
The road ahead is clear: prioritising infrastructure delivery will unlock economic potential, support a growing population, and secure Ireland’s future.
The next 12 months are just the beginning of a long-term journey that will define the country’s development for decades to come.
