Despite a drop in activity for the sixth year in a row, the construction industry may see some growth in 2013.
The latest survey from Ulster Bank shows more than 175,000 construction workers have been laid off since the recession began.
However, chief economist with Ulster Bank Simon Barry said the outlook was more positive for 2013.
"We saw a bit of an increase in construction confidence in the latest survey," he said. "It stands at its highest level since July. Firms are beginning to think activity levels might be rising as they look 12 months ahead."