The Irish construction industry is facing a shortage of construction specialists and graduates, according to a report released by professional body Engineers Ireland.

The report said there was a need to promote careers in engineering and construction amongst students entering third-level courses. It said demand is beginning to outstrip supply.

The comments come following the allocation of college places published today by the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Analysis carried out by Engineers Ireland with recruitment firm Hays found an increased demand for engineers and other construction specialists, as well as a shortage of available and suitable candidates. It said the number of students pursuing construction courses at third level is insufficient to meet industry demands in the coming years.

Hays has recorded a 93% increase in the number of construction and property jobs on offer during the first six months of 2014, when compared with the same period last year.

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It said Leinster is experiencing the greatest growth in new construction jobs, with a 143% increase in those available and a 30% increase outside of Leinster.

But Hays said there was a shortage of particular types of candidates for construction projects and engineers at a mid-level in their careers.

Engineers Ireland has also warned of an ongoing shortage of engineers graduates in the years ahead, despite demand.

John Power, Chartered Engineer and Director General of Engineers Ireland, stated: "For many years the numbers of students opting for civil and construction engineering careers fell significantly, which is not surprising given the collapse of the property market. At that time, many engineers in the construction sector went to work on overseas projects or moved into non-construction areas of engineering in Ireland, such as the energy and environment industry.

"According to the recent ESRI figures, we need 90,000 more homes over the next seven years or 12,500 additional houses per annum up to 2021. There will also be a significant demand for commercial property in the years ahead.

"Therefore, in the week that thousands of students will receive their CAO offers for third-level education, Engineers Ireland would encourage them to think seriously about a career in engineering and construction. Equally for students about to enter Leaving Cert year, they should explore the industry over the coming months and inform themselves on whether it is a career option for them."

(IT/MH)