Pictured at the CIF Mid-West Branch Annual Dinner in the Greenhills Hotel were from left: Brian McCarthy, Brian McCarthy Contractors; Tony O'Shea, Chairman, Mid West Branch of the CIF and Brendan Kenny, Chief Executive Limerick Regeneration Agencies. Picture: Liam Burke/Press 22

The construction industry remains healthy across the mid west, according to Tony O'Shea—the Chairman of the regional branch of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF).

Speaking at the annual dinner of the mid west branch of CIF in the Greenhills Hotel, Mr O'Shea spoke about the opportunities and challenges ahead for the construction industry in the region.

"The importance to this region of Shannon Airport cannot be underestimated. Two major infrastructure projects are currently underway, which when completed will significantly increase the airports catchments area," he said.

"The Shannon Tunnel which is currently under construction will remove significant volumes of traffic from Limerick City centre and the Limerick—Nenagh Dual Carriageway which is currently under construction which will reduce travel times to and from Dublin, while at the same time opening open the mid west region even further for business."

He added that "there are ambitious plans from the Limerick Regeneration Agency for the regeneration of estates in the city, which we in the CIF believe will provide for the radical improvement of the infrastructure in parts of Limerick while creating opportunities for the people of Limerick".

"Despite all the negative talk there is a need for those of us involved in construction to defend our industry and to point out the many positives that exist. From a home buyers perspective it has never been a better time to be in the market, due to the choice and value that is to be found," said Mr O'Shea.

He also emphasised that recent changes in the budget have helped first time buyers, in terms of clarity with stamp duty and a significant increase in mortgage interest relief. "Any potential home buyers should avail of the opportunity at the moment that exists in the market for buyers."

Other notable attendees included: Andy O'Gorman, CIF Vice President; Joe O'Brien, CIF Director of the Southern Region and Conor O'Connell, CIF Executive in the Mid West Region.

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