Construction activity continued to fall in December, but an increase in new orders and expanded employment presented a more “upbeat picture” for the sector heading into 2026, the latest AIB Construction Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) shows. However, this is still below the 50 mark which indicates the sector went through a contraction during the month. This is the eighth month in a row the sector recorded a reduction in activity, but it is the slowest fall in activity since June 2025. Homebuilding activity declined for an eighth month in-a-row, although the pace of contraction was the mildest since May,” he added. The continued reduction in activity in the homebuilding sector is continuing to impact the housing crisis.

Source: Irish Examiner January 13, 2026 07:10 UTC