O'Brien Seeks Construction Inclusion in €505M Fuel Aid Amid Rising Costs

Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien wants the construction sector included in the fuel support package announced last week, intended for critical food production and supply chain transporters. While general excise reductions apply, there are no specific supports targeted solely at construction, aside from haulage.

CIF CEO Andrew Brownlee stated the industry is seeing a rapid rise in costs, with cement up 15% in a few weeks. He noted the government’s €505m fuel support package "seems to really only focus on the agriculture sector." Brownlee said MGO fuel prices have risen by 83% since excise duty changes on March 24 and April 12, compared to a 5% rise in petrol. He added, "Input price inflation is therefore rising dramatically, and members are seriously concerned about impact on business."

CIF's Conor O Connell said the cost of delivering housing is rising faster than demand, undermining progress in improving housing viability. He stated the need to control spiralling costs to supply needed homes and end the housing crisis. Brownlee and O Connell are expected to repeat these calls at the CIF/ Irish Home Builders’ Association Summit.