Construction Industry Federation boss Tom Parlon has claimed Irish builders would be 'crazy' to accept the new national pay deal.

The plans include a 6% pay rise for all workers over the next 21 months.

Both the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and employers' body IBEC have already approved the deal.

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Despite this, the CIF's Mr Parlon has said the financial ramifications of the new deal could cost the building sector in the region of €200m per annum, insisting this was simply not affordable during the current economic downturn.

According to Mr Parlon, the deal currently on the table does not represent a valid way forward "in this very, very unique and difficult financial situation".

He said the CIF would normally be supportive of social partnership and the stability such agreements offer.

CIP members will decide whether to ratify the agreement next week.

(PR/JM)