A Cork developer is calling for some building sites to reopen to tackle the housing deficit.
Developer Michael O'Flynn says while not all construction sites are suitable for social distancing, some would be able to introduce measures to ensure work could continue safely
The construction industry employs around 150,000 people in Ireland, many of whom have been temporarily laid off due to the spread of Covid-19.
A number of high profile sites in Cork have been impacted by the lay offs including a student apartment complex on the site of the former Crow's Nest pub in the city.
Speaking to RedFM News, Michael O'Flynn says some sites should be reopened if restrictions are extended beyond two weeks.
"My first worry is the health and safety of everybody, those on the frontline are doing an amazing job and I certainly don't want to do anything or say anything that would impact on that in any way.
"Having said that we can't lose sight of the economic situation int his country, we can't lose sight of the housing deficit we have, and the efforts we're making to try and address that.
"If this lasts a long time it's going to have a significant impact."
