The Government has been called to urgently address the housing crisis in Cork.

The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) made the call after it was estimated that the annual demand for housing in the Cork City & County area alone is in excess of 2,500 units per annum.

CIF Regional Director, Conor O'Connell, said the issue of costs can be immediately addressed by the Government.

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Mr O'Connell said: "It is estimated that 36% of the cost of any house goes back to the Government in various levies and other forms of taxation. Costs need to be reduced immediately as this is the one area within the immediate control of the Government. VAT, development contribution scheme charges, bonds and other charges and levies alone could amount to €50,000 per unit for a standard 3 bed semi-detached house. Other regulatory cost add to this taxation burden for anyone wishing to commence construction."

(CD/LM)