CIF Southern Construct Summit to look at challenges and opportunities for Cork to grow

The countdown is on to the CIF Southern Construct Summit 2026 which will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and key stakeholders.

The day will see discussions centred around Cork’s readiness to deliver on critical housing, infrastructure and investment projects.

The event is taking place at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Thursday, May 21st. The theme centres on Cork’s readiness to deliver as Ireland’s key counterbalance to Dublin. With a rapidly growing population and increasing demand for housing, infrastructure, and sustainable development, Cork is uniquely positioned to attract investment and deliver tangible outcomes across multiple sectors.

Representation from stakeholders include Uisce Eireann, ESB, NTA, the Southern Regional Assembly as well as presentations on building sustainable businesses and onshore energy sources. Among the speakers on the agenda are:

• Sarah O’Donnell, Project Manager Luas Cork, Transport Infrastructure Ireland
• Simon Coveney, Managing Director, Waterfront Advisory
• Moira Murrell, Chief Executive, Cork County Council
• Brian Geaney, Assistant Chief Executive, Cork City Council

Joanne Treacy, Director Southern Region Construction Industry Federation said: “There has been significant investment in construction in Cork in recent years with key developments changing the face of the city and county including the Cork Docklands, the city centre regeneration, improvements to our roads and infrastructures and major housing developments particularly in the city centre and suburbs.

The CIF Southern Construct Summit is bringing together leaders in our industry to discuss the realities facing the construction sector and how challenges can be overcome and to explore further opportunities to help Cork city and county grow to its full potential. We welcome anyone with an interest in the future development of Cork to join us on May 21st at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.”

The summit will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and actionable insights, ensuring that Cork continues to play a central role in Ireland’s economic and social development.

As one of the country’s most important construction gatherings, the CIF Southern Construct Summit 2026 is expected to draw significant attendance from across the industry, reinforcing confidence in Cork’s capacity to lead and deliver on national priorities.

To view the full agenda and to register your attendance, visit: southernconstruct.ie.