CIF projects could benefit Cork

The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has included 55 projects in Cork that could benefit from a stimulus package from the European Union (EU).

The projects include road improvements, educational extensions, healthcare facilities and other infrastructural improvements.

Improvements on the CIF list include works on the Cork to Limerick road, the N25 Carrigtwohill-Midleton road and N71 Bandon to Innishannon.

The CIF also mentioned the development of a new prison at Kilworth, the extension of a library at Cork Institute of Technology and further work on a Radiation Oncology Unit at Cork University Hospital.

There also was a wide range of water improvement services spanning across the city and county mentioned in the report by the lobby group. The CIF included 52 road projects and 319 water service projects in their national report, along with 11 third level projects and 13 miscellaneous improvements including the slipway in Youghal town.

“Since the possibility of an EU stimulus package was first suggested, the CIF has been looking into what projects could be included, including 55 projects based in Cork,” said Director General Tom Parlon.

“By going through Government published data and intelligence provided by our own members, we have been able to compile this list which identifies hundreds of projects all around Ireland that could benefit from the EU stimulus deal.”

The CIF insist the projects are labour intensive and would fit with the Government's investment priorities. Mr Parlon also stressed that to see the most benefit, the stimulus would need to be nationally directed, not regionally biased.  

“All that remains is for the Government to secure the package,” commented the former junior Minister.

“While it was first mentioned while the country was in the midst of the EU Fiscal Treaty Referendum campaign, there has been very little movement or commentary from Government on the package since.”

The CIF were keen to add that the list was not closed to adding new projects that could be advanced under a stimulus programme.

“There may be many more projects which could also be included in the deal and which would also provide jobs, investment and other benefits around the country. However we hope this list will act as a strong flavour of what can be achieved if the stimulus package is finalised in the near future.”