The Irish Government has unveiled the largest capital investment programme in the State’s history, allocating €275.4 billion over the next decade to transform the country’s infrastructure and deliver 300,000 new homes by 2030.
The updated National Development Plan represents an unprecedented commitment to addressing Ireland’s infrastructure deficit, with €102.4 billion earmarked for the period 2026-2030 alone. The plan prioritises critical areas including housing, water, energy and transport infrastructure essential for future economic growth.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the significance of the investment: “This NDP Review is a landmark moment for Ireland’s future. With a record €275.4 billion in public capital investment, we will deliver the infrastructure that will help us meet the economic and social needs of the Irish people for generations to come.”
The plan includes substantial equity funding of €10 billion specifically targeted at large-scale projects. Energy infrastructure receives €3.5 billion through ESB Networks and EirGrid to support housing development and competitiveness objectives. Water services benefit from €4.5 billion, including a €2 billion equity injection into Uisce Éireann to enable delivery of the housing target.
Transport infrastructure secures €24.3 billion over the plan period, with €2 billion allocated for low-carbon projects including the MetroLink from the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund.
Tánaiste Simon Harris emphasised the strategic importance of the investment:
“Against the backdrop of global uncertainty, this plan presents a once in a generation opportunity to transform Ireland’s infrastructure and secure the country’s future. By prioritising investment in water, energy, and transport, we are laying the groundwork for 300,000 new homes by 2030.”
The plan addresses Ireland’s growing population, which reached 5.4 million in 2024 and is projected to increase to between 5.75 and 6.30 million by 2040. This demographic growth drives demand across all infrastructure sectors, from schools and healthcare to transport networks.
Minister of State Seán Canney highlighted the transport dimension: “Transport is at the heart of a modern, connected Ireland, and this review reflects that. Investment in transport plays a vital role in enhancing economic performance and regional development.”
Housing receives the largest single allocation at €35.955 billion over five years, supporting the Programme for Government’s commitment to deliver an annual average of 12,000 new social homes and 15,000 starter homes per year.
Minister Jack Chambers noted the plan’s comprehensive scope: “This review has considered some of the most important challenges facing Ireland: the need to provide for a growing and changing population, supporting Ireland’s competitiveness, ensuring balanced regional development and meeting our climate obligations.”
The plan incorporates climate considerations throughout, with all departments required to assess spending proposals against environmental outcomes. The Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund contributes significantly, supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve water quality and biodiversity.
Minister Paschal Donohoe emphasised the financial responsibility of the approach:
“The NDP review represents a fiscally responsible and forward-looking investment in Ireland’s future. The use of non-Exchequer funding sources demonstrates our commitment to prudent financial management while delivering transformative outcomes.”
Construction sector capacity remains a key consideration, with current employment at 177,000, the highest level in over a decade. The plan’s delivery will require significant workforce expansion, with estimates suggesting up to 80,000 additional construction workers needed to meet all targets including retrofitting programmes.
The government has established an Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce and new Infrastructure Division within the Department of Public Expenditure to address delivery barriers and streamline processes. Recent planning reforms through the Planning and Development Act 2024 aim to reduce delays and improve certainty for major projects.
Regional development features prominently, with the plan supporting balanced growth between Dublin and other regions. The Shared Island Fund receives €990 million to support cross-border infrastructure projects fostering reconciliation and growth.
The full National Development Plan Review 2025 details departmental allocations and strategic priorities for Ireland’s infrastructure transformation over the next decade.