The construction sector slowdown in Ireland could result in the loss of 55,000 jobs by the end of 2009, according to a report by Fás.

The study, published by the employment and training authority, has said some of the 76,000 construction workers, employed at the end of 2006, will have lost their jobs by the end of next year.

However, 21,000 jobs will be recouped in other parts of the sector, which will result in a net job loss of 55,000.

John McGrath of Fás has described the potential situation as an "awful haemorrhage of jobs", stating that this year and next will be "tough".

However, Mr McGrath has predicted a partial recovery of jobs in the industry, but not until 2013, when projected new job creations will boost the negative net job losses to 23,000.

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The report has suggested the foreseeable slump will have a harder impact on "wet" tradesmen such as bricklayers, plasterers and carpenters.

Mr McGrath said these trades are set to suffer most due to the decline in new builds in Ireland, as well as the market trend to incorporate more glass and concrete into contemporary designs.

It has been suggested electricians will face greater opportunities during this period, and there will also be more demand for specialist skills in welding and steel fixing.

Many of the new jobs, expected to be created in the construction trade will derive from the government's National Development Plans. Although Taoiseach Brian Cowen has already made it clear the progression of this scheme will be determined by favourable growth in the domestic economy.

The Fás report has said that both immigrant and Irish builders will be equally affected by job losses. Figures have suggested around 14% of Ireland's 279,000-strong construction labour market is made up by foreign workers.

Worker's union Siptu has called on the government to take action, following the publication of the report.

Union organiser Eric Fleming said: "The Government has no choice but to act now if it is to avert what will be a devastating blow not just to construction but the wider economy."

See: Cowen Reaffirms Commitment To NDP

(PR/JM)