As we begin a new year, January marks a fresh start for Ireland’s construction industry. With strong project pipelines, continued investment across housing and infrastructure, and renewed hiring activity, 2026 is already shaping up to be a year of opportunity and growth.

In this month’s Construction Insights, we’re sharing current job openings, key industry updates, and early indicators for the year ahead. Whether you’re planning your next career move or building teams for upcoming projects, our recruitment specialists are ready to support you from the outset.

Current Job Openings

Our Professional Team is currently hiring for the following roles:

Our Trades and Labour team is currently hiring for the following roles:

Trending Industry News

  1. Planning application lodged for more than 550 homes on Cork’s Jacob’s Island (Source: Irish Examiner)

RESIDENTIAL development is gathering pace on Cork City’s southside, with a proposal for a large-scale development in Jacob’s Island having just entered the planning process.Hibernia Star Ltd, linked to McCarthy Developments (Cork) Ltd, has just lodged an application for a 10-year planning permission for a large-scale residential development of 556 units across four blocks at Jacob’s Island in Mahon, as part of an ongoing €750m development, expected to ultimately deliver more than 1,200 homes.

Image Source: Irish Examiner

2. Government announces first call for projects for €1b Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (Source: Irish Building Magazine)

The Tánaiste Simon Harris TD and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, have announced the first call for projects for the Government’s new Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIIF).

Image Source: Irish Building Magazine

3. Construction of social housing units to begin on fire damaged site in Mayo (Source: Irish Examiner)

Construction on a 31-unit social housing development in Ballina will formally commence next month. The former Duffy’s Bakery site on Kevin Barry Street will be redeveloped to provide 31 own-door access apartments. Works are expected to take approximately 18 months, with completion due by August 2027. Finna Construction, based in Cross, County Mayo, have been appointed to manage the construction of the social housing scheme.

Image Source: Irish Examiner

4. Government approves upgrades to Limerick Waste Water Treatment Plant (Source: Irish Building Magazine)

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, has announced Government approval of the Preliminary Business Case for an upgraded Waste Water Treatment Plant and associated Bioresource Centre for Limerick City.

Image Source: Irish Building Magazine

Upcoming Events

  • National Construction Summit 2026, April 15th – April 16th, Sport Ireland Campus Blanchardstown

The National Construction Summit serves as a hub for Ireland’s construction professionals, bringing together key stakeholders from across the sector. This year’s summit focuses on critical issues such as planning regulations, sustainable construction practices, delivering housing faster, infrastructure development, and creating a decarbonised built environment.

Register for the event here: https://shorturl.at/ta6QR

Let’s Talk Opportunities

The summer is a prime time to explore new roles and strengthen your team. If you’re hiring or job-seeking, connect with our recruitment consultants for tailored support.

📧 info@buildstaff.ie 📞 017071012

Thank you for staying connected with us — we look forward to sharing more with you in next month’s edition of Construction Insights.