Minister Harris Confirms Government Approval for Measures to Recruit More People into Construction
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD, has welcomed the Government’s approval to implement several initiatives aimed at promoting careers in construction.
A budget of €750,000 has been allocated to advance the recently published Careers in Construction report, which includes plans for a peer-to-peer social media campaign to dispel misconceptions surrounding construction careers. Additionally, efforts will be made to inform skilled construction workers abroad about opportunities in Ireland and the ongoing pipeline of construction work.
Minister Harris, currently in London, is meeting with Irish construction workers employed across the United Kingdom to discuss the reasons for remaining abroad and the potential challenges hindering their return home.
“It is essential we continue to support people entering the sector,” Minister Harris emphasized. “This funding will seek to dispel some of those myths and ensure that people considering construction or upskilling from their current role in the sector are aware of the investment the State is making in this area over the next decade.”
The Department is also exploring structural changes to promote construction careers, including integrating information about apprenticeships into early education. New resources related to Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) are being developed to highlight opportunities in this field.
“We also know Irish construction workers are in high demand,” Minister Harris noted. “Many left Ireland during the economic crash and have not returned. Today, I will meet a small number of them to discuss the opportunities that Ireland can offer to people seeking a meaningful career in this area.”
The Government’s housing policy, Housing for All, commits funding each year to advance specific actions, including initiatives to promote construction careers. The allocated €750,000 will support various outreach, engagement, and promotion efforts outlined in the Careers in Construction Action Plan.
This includes a peer-to-peer social media campaign targeting the 15-20 year old age group, aimed at changing perceptions of careers in construction. The Department will also collaborate with partners to produce a documentary showcasing modern construction careers, to be shared with secondary schools nationwide.
Furthermore, the production company will develop training videos to assist small and medium-sized construction companies in upskilling their teams in MMC.
The implementation of these initiatives underscores the Government’s commitment to addressing the challenges in the construction sector and ensuring a skilled workforce to meet future demands.
(Source: Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science)
