Thousands of construction jobs are at risk in Northern Ireland as a result of a downturn in building activity.

Following substantial job losses in the Republic, John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation Northern Ireland (CEFNI) said that many of his members had already let workers go. And, he warned, there could be "hundreds if not thousands more job losses across the board" if the current trend continues.

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However, Mr Armstrong told the BBC that a slump in property prices is not solely to blame for the decrease in activity. He cited broader economic issues as having a negative impact on the sector.

"There are a lot of broader economic issued baring down on the industry," he said. "Another issue that must be addressed is the proposal that 20% of any project be given over to social housing.

"If this is going to be introduced, there needs to be adequate time allowed for adjustment to such a major change."

Around 84,000 people work in the construction industry in Northern Ireland. A recent report on employment in the province showed that construction jobs were leading NI job growth and fast outpacing the manufacturing sector.

(VB/JM)