Ireland’s construction and engineering sectors could see significant opportunities from a record €11.92 billion budget allocation to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, announced on 6 October as part of Budget 2027.
The funding package aims to increase housing supply, accelerate infrastructure development and support local authorities, with substantial investment planned for social housing, starter homes, water services and urban regeneration.
Housing is a major focus of the allocation, with total funding of €9.1 billion planned for 2027 when Exchequer investment is combined with funding through the Land Development Agency and Housing Finance Agency.
Almost €3 billion in capital investment will support the delivery of 12,000 new social homes. A further €1 billion will support 15,000 starter-home initiatives through schemes including the First Home Scheme, Affordable Purchase and Cost Rental.
The department also confirmed €350 million for the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund and €225 million for the Housing Activation Office, including support to address infrastructure barriers that can delay housing projects.
For construction professionals, the scale of the planned investment highlights the importance of project delivery, site management, civil engineering, quantity surveying, building services and other specialist skills across the housing supply chain.
A further €2.35 billion has been allocated to Uisce Éireann for 2027, including capital investment in new and upgraded treatment plants and water and wastewater infrastructure. The funding is intended to increase network capacity and facilitate housing development in priority locations.
Planning will receive €119 million, supporting additional capacity within the planning system, streamlined approvals, strategic planning and infrastructure development. Local government will receive €894 million, including funding for fire-service facilities and other essential services.
These investments underline the connection between housing delivery and the wider infrastructure required to support growing communities. Construction and engineering projects depend on coordinated planning, adequate utility capacity and access to skilled workers.
The department has also highlighted the role of planning reform, the removal of infrastructure bottlenecks and increased use of modern methods of construction in tackling Ireland’s housing challenges.
As projects progress, employers will continue to need people with relevant technical qualifications, practical experience and an understanding of new construction methods. Opportunities can span apprenticeships, trades, engineering, project management, health and safety, digital design and construction technology.
For people considering entering the sector, or experienced professionals looking to take the next step in their careers, keeping up to date with industry investment and skills requirements can help identify potential career directions.
Construction Jobs Expo offers an opportunity to connect with employers, explore vacancies and learn more about career pathways across construction and engineering.
Taking place on Saturday, 17 October 2026, from 11am to 4pm at the RDS, Dublin, the free event will feature employers, career guidance and information for people at different stages of their working lives.
Whether you are exploring an apprenticeship, seeking a new role or looking to progress within the industry, visit Construction Jobs Expo 2026 to meet employers and explore your next career opportunity.
Ireland's Premier Careers Fair for Construction & Engineering
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Whether you’re actively looking for a new role or simply exploring future opportunities, TalentIQ allows you more free time to interact and build relationships at the event.
