Employers’ groups insist words must be followed with actions

EMPLOYERS’ groups have broadly welcomed the Government’s promise to invest €40 billion in infrastructural development over the next six years but demanded that words must be turned into action.

The Construction Industry Federation said the test of the announcements made in the Government’s Infrastructure Investment Priorities, 2010-2016 lay in the delivery of projects.

“The Government’s commitment to maintain investment at €5.5bn annually over the period 2011 to 2016 should send a positive message to the international investment community that Ireland remains determined to address its infrastructure deficits in the key areas of health, education, transportation, water services and energy,” said Martin Whelan, the CIF’s policy director. “The announcement also provides a degree of certainty and clarity for the construction industry that has been absent for some time and is extremely welcome given existing jobs in the industry are under huge pressures.”