Seven in 10 Irish construction professionals are not confident of the sector improving over the next three years, according to new research from Hays.

The survey 1,199 individuals with a construction background  also finds that the downturn in the market has caused many Irish construction workers to seek pastures new with 21% opting for the UK, 23% for another European country, 15% for Australasia and 13% for the Middle East. More than half (51%) of Irish emigrants say that they believe the quality of life is better where they now reside.

“Unfortunately we are seeing a migration of our construction professionals again, skilled people forced to look elsewhere due to the lack of opportunities Ireland,” said Paul O’Donnell, senior operations manager for Hays Construction & Property.