Professor Orla Feely
President, Engineers Ireland
High-quality infrastructure is an important element of a modern society and economy. It strengthens economic growth through job creation and enhances efficiency, productivity and competitiveness.
Our institution has long campaigned for more strategic and targeted investment in infrastructure and technology. We are supportive of the approach of linking the National Development Plan (NDP) to the National Planning Framework objectives, as part of Project Ireland 2040, with key actions to drive sustainable regional development, such as the National Broadband Plan.
The impact of targeted investment
Correctly targeted investment underpins social cohesion by providing vital facilities for citizens. We are pleased to see the Government reaffirm their commitment to capital investment with a total public investment of €165 billion over the period 2021-2030, as detailed in the NDP. There is a priority focus on solutions to strengthen our housing, climate ambitions, broadband, transport, healthcare, jobs and economic renewal for the decade ahead.
Engineers and their skill sets are integral to the delivery of the ambition of the NDP. For example, sustainable housing, smart settlements, innovative building and construction methods will enable the transition to a low carbon and resilient society that will support the sustainable management of water and other resources.
In addition to physical infrastructure, a significant element of the investment set out in the NDP will support enterprise development, research, innovation and science. As an advocate for STEM education in schools, we welcome the development of ambitious strategies in relation to digitalisation, including The Digital Strategy for Schools which seeks to further embed digital technology teaching, learning and assessment in primary and post-primary schools.
Education and skills are necessary to deliver on government policies and to achieve a green and digital future.
The importance of talent development
Education and skills are necessary to deliver on government policies and to achieve a green and digital future.
Engineers are in high demand, and we must encourage more young people to enter and remain in the engineering and construction sectors. We must also innovate to increase the capacity of our sector and collaborate to promote the rewarding careers engineering has to offer. There are pressing shortages of engineers in many disciplines to fill skills gaps emerging for the sustainable recovery.
We encourage young people considering CAO applications for 2022 to consider a career in engineering. It is a rewarding sector that provides limitless opportunities.Students who accept an offer for an engineering course at third-level will also be part of a profession that will continue to play a pivotal role in our green and digital future. Professional engineering apprenticeships are also an important component of the solution.
For more information, visit: engineersireland.ie
