The new chairperson of the Cork branch of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has highlighted the need for more young people to consider careers in the construction sector.
Patsy Supple was speaking at the organisation’s Annual Dinner which was held at the Fota Island Resort on Friday evening, March 20th, at her first engagement since being appointed the new chairperson of the Cork branch of the CIF. It’s her second time to hold the position having been in the role between 2007 and 2009.
Addressing almost 300 guests, Ms. Supple said that construction in Ireland is facing many challenges as delivery of projects, particularly in housing, need to be scaled up to meet the country’s needs.
“I would ask everyone in this room – whether you are parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or mentors – to encourage the young people in your lives to consider careers in this sector. I would particularly encourage you to inspire young women to join our industry. They remain one of our greatest untapped resources
“If we ever think construction might not be a suitable career for women, then perhaps it is time for all of us to ask what changes we need to make to ensure that it is.”
BETTER CO-ORDINATION NECESSARY
Speaking about construction in Cork city, Ms. Supple said there is evidence of significant investment in housing, infrastructure and the public realm as Cork continues to grow as a vibrant and attractive place to live and work.
However, she noted that despite the sector’s best efforts, there is still a long way to go to meet the target of 50,000 homes to be built per year. She said that one of the biggest challenges facing the sector is the length of time it takes to get projects started and called for co-ordination between contractors, planners, developers, local authorities, utility providers, government departments and financers, to speed up the process.
Patsy Supple is a Director at Mavro Property Ltd, with 35 years experience in the building and property sector.
The CIF Cork branch Annual Dinner was sponsored by Unilin and MD O’Shea.
