Figures released today show that activity in the Irish building sector grew for a 27th consecutive month in November.
Ulster Bank's Construction Purchasing Managers' Index slipped to a four-month low of 58.2, but this was still well above the 50 mark which separates growth from contraction.
Ulster Bank chief economist Pat McArdle said there was a mini-boom in housing in the third quarter, but this appeared to be easing off and the November rate of expansion was more moderate.
'Both commercial and civil eased off recent highs while housing activity gained ground. There is no sign of a slowdown in hiring and confidence remains high,' the economist said. He added that falling energy prices were reflected in a significant slowing in the rate of cost inflation in the sector.
