The body representing Irish builders has slammed the state's decision to slash infrastructure spending by €300m as a missed opportunity to stimulate the economy.

Further jobs has also been put at risk by the revised budget, according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF).

The Federation said it is seek immediate clarification on the 're-prioritised' €150m.

CIF Director General Tom Parlon suggested spending on infrastructure is the only way in the current environment to create jobs.

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"The CIF regrets therefore that the government has decided to cut spending by €300m, particularly given the significant cutbacks in infrastructure spending announced in the October's Budget.

"The government has referred to the excellent value for money it is getting from the industry which is a reason to increase not reduce spending," said Mr Parlon.

"The CIF is seeking immediate clarification on the €150 million spending that is to be reprioritised."

The federation boss said it cannot be a case of "robbing Peter to pay Paul".

"If there is to be reprioritisation it needs to involve the diversion of spending on imported trains, busses and other rolling stock to labour intensive projects that utilise indigenous labour and raw materials," he said.

(PR/JM)