Most Irish construction sites effectively stop twice a year: around Christmas and during the summer shutdown. The dates are agreed annually between the CIF and trade unions, and while not legally mandated, they are near-universal on CIF sites.
This guide covers the practical impact on programmes, deadlines, and payment cycles, and flags what must be confirmed before publishing.
For detailed day-counting rules, see the Technical Reference page.
What Are the CIF Shutdowns?
- Christmas shutdown: typically around two weeks spanning Christmas and New Year.
- Summer shutdown: typically two weeks in late July or early August.
These periods are announced annually and should be built into project programmes as known non-working time.
2026 Shutdown Dates
Based on the agreed industry calendar:
- Summer 2026: Monday 20 July to Friday 31 July (2 weeks)
- Christmas 2026: Thursday 24 December to Thursday 31 December
These dates are agreed between the CIF and trade unions. Check the CIF or Connect Trade Union calendars for the most up-to-date confirmation
Impact on Construction Contracts
- Extension of time clauses usually anticipate shutdowns.
- Liquidated damages calculations typically exclude shutdown days if the contract defines them as non-working time.
- "Working day" definitions often carve out shutdown periods explicitly.
Payment Implications
- Interim payment applications often need to be brought forward.
- Final account deadlines may need adjustment.
- Construction Contracts Act 2013 timelines still apply, so plan cash flow around the shutdown.
Subcontractor Considerations
Main contractor shutdowns do not automatically bind subcontractors unless their contracts say so.
Common issues to check:
- Retention release dates during shutdown windows.
- Programme float consumed by the shutdown.
- Subcontract variations for holiday work or premium rates.
Non-CIF Sites and Exceptions
Some sites continue working (data centres, emergency works), but:
- Premium rates may apply.
- Skeleton crews can create safety and coordination risk.
- Planning conditions may restrict work during the period anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the shutdown legally required?
A: No. It is an agreed industry practice, not a statutory closure. Most CIF
sites observe it in practice.
Q: What if my project is already behind schedule?
A: The shutdown still applies unless the contract allows otherwise. Plan for
compression or early finishes rather than relying on holiday work.
Q: Do office staff follow the same shutdown?
A: Often, but not always. Administrative teams may return earlier than site
crews.
Q: How do shutdown dates affect defects liability periods?
A: Only if the contract definition of "working days" excludes shutdown days.
Check the contract rather than assuming.
Sources & Further Reading:
- Construction Industry Federation (CIF)
- Sectoral Employment Orders - Construction
- Construction Contracts Act 2013
Last updated: 26 January 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify deadlines with official sources before making critical decisions.