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Irish Engineering Industry Blogs

February 19, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Galway City Council Secures €3.36 Million EU Grant to Deliver Groundbreaking WATERWAY Project

  Galway City Council has become the first local authority in Ireland to receive funding under the European Urban Initiative (EUI) – Innovative Actions programme.

  The Council has been awarded €3,363,213 through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to lead a pioneering project called WATERWAY, which will revitalise the city’s historic canals as a source of clean energy, education, and public engagement. The total project value is estimated to be €4.2 million and reflects Galway’s growing leadership in local climate innovation. WATERWAY is fully aligned with the Galway City Climate Action Plan and Ireland’s national targets under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Acts.

  Reactivating Galway’s Waterways

  WATERWAY will see the installation of three small-scale hydropower turbines at selected sites, bringing the canals that once powered the city’s mills and industries back to life. The proposed locations currently being reviewed are the Mill Street Canal, Terryland Waterworks and the Mclaughlin Building, Nuns Island, the locations will undergo detailed design to finalise appropriate design considerations.

  Some of the locations being considered already contain existing infrastructure such as turbines, sluices and culverts, allowing for modern energy production with minimal disruption to sites.

  These turbines will harness the natural flow of the canals to generate electricity for public use, including powering buildings and EV charging, while also delivering clean, renewable energy back to the electrical grid.

  The micro hydropower initiative is safe for wildlife above and below the water. This project involves the modernisation of existing systems and adheres to the published guidelines in Ireland and the EU. Authorized smolt screens are used to prevent any fish from entering, who can pass downstream as normal through a free-flowing passage, avoiding any disruption to fish migration patterns. No equipment will be installed in the main Corrib river, and the project will strictly focus on the city’s purpose-built existing industrial canals. More information about the hydropower turbines can be found on the project website.

  The WATERWAY project team has completed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening, and also Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening for each location. The screening process has been undertaken by leading independent expert Irish environmental consultants. This detailed process has unanimously concluded that the project is screened out of the requirement for a full EIA, AA/NIS (Natura Impact Statement). This determination confirms the project is very low risk and will not have adverse effects on the environment. The initiative is delivered in full compliance with Irish planning regulations and EU directives.

  A Model for Ireland and Beyond

  This announcement comes after the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) highlighted the urgent need for faster action to meet climate goals. WATERWAY responds to that challenge by offering a scalable model for energy transition in Irish cities.

  Derek Pender, Director of Service, Galway City Council said, “This initiative represents a significant step forward in Galway’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Once operational, the Galway City project will serve as a demonstration site for other local authorities across Ireland and the EU, showing how underused water infrastructure can be reimagined to deliver positive environmental, economic, and social impacts.’’

  Strong Local and European Partnership

  The project brings together a highly skilled team of local, regional, and international partners:

  • Galway City Council – Project lead, site development, public engagement, and strategic delivery.
  • University of Galway – Creation of new training modules and upskilling programmes in green energy technologies aimed at students, early-career professionals, and local residents interested in sustainability and climate innovation.
  • Quirke Renewable Systems Ltd – Technical lead on feasibility studies and delivery of the initial hydropower  pilot installation.
  • Galway City Community Network (GCCN) – Leading community outreach, workshops, and inclusion of local voices.
  • Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) – Coordination of replication activities, policy alignment, and dissemination.

  All partners were invited by Galway City Council to participate through a collaborative process, based on their individual expertise. Together, the partners have developed a compelling vision for the city’s future, securing approval and funding from the European Commission.

  Galway City Council and its partners will work closely with engineering consultants, environmental experts, and other key stakeholders to ensure the project delivers measurable benefits in energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and public awareness.

   Education, Community and Legacy

  Damien Redington, Climate Action Coordinator, Galway City Council said, “A key component of WATERWAY is the establishment of a Living Lab – a space for workshops, learning experiences, and site visits aimed at schools, colleges, community groups, and the public. This will ensure Galway residents are not only informed but actively involved in the city’s climate transformation. The project will also help train Ireland’s next generation of climate professionals, with new academic modules developed by the University of Galway focused on hydropower, sustainability, and innovation. Importantly, the energy generated through WATERWAY will provide ongoing revenue that is reinvested into local climate initiatives, community campaigns, and future green infrastructure.’’

  Building on Galway City’s Water Heritage

  In 2025, Galway City Council was named the winner of the All Ireland Community and Council Awards “Best Trail/Waterway in Ireland” award, celebrating its work in opening up canals and rivers as public amenities. WATERWAY will build on that success by creating a new outdoor museum trail, allowing residents and visitors to learn about Galway’s industrial past and sustainable future.

  The turbines will both power infrastructure and become educational landmarks, embedded into Galway’s green urban fabric.

  What’s Next?

  The project is currently in its early phase, with site preparation, engineering studies, and public engagement underway. Galway City Council has launched a dedicated website where the public can track progress, explore resources, and get involved in upcoming workshops and events, link to website.

  When are the hydropower turbines likely to be installed?

  The first turbine installation is expected in late 2026, following detailed feasibility studies, environmental assessments, and community engagement. The remaining two installations will be publicly procured to appoint a contractor later in the project lifecycle, with all systems scheduled to be operational by the end of the project in early 2029.

  When will UoG likely have courses underway?

  The University of Galway is currently developing new modules and training opportunities in renewable energy and hydropower as part of the WATERWAY project. These are expected to launch in late 2026, with pilot programmes and short courses offered initially, followed by integration into formal academic programmes in the following years.

  WATERWAY runs until March 2029, but its legacy — in clean energy, education, community benefit, and heritage preservation — will extend well beyond the project’s formal end date.

  Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates

  The post Galway City Council Secures €3.36 Million EU Grant to Deliver Groundbreaking WATERWAY Project first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 17, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine ICE Awards 2026

  The standard of excellence across Ireland’s construction sector continues to rise — and the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2026 (ICE Awards 2026) finalists are clear evidence of an industry operating at the highest level.

  Following a rigorous evaluation process, this year’s shortlist reflects a breadth of achievement spanning infrastructure, commercial development, residential delivery, public works, innovation, digital construction and health and wellbeing. From complex landmark projects to transformative community-focused initiatives, the calibre of entries once again demonstrates why the Irish Construction Excellence Awards (ICE Awards) are regarded as the benchmark for performance excellence in the built environment.

  Each year, the ICE Awards bring together contractors, engineers, architects, surveyors, clients and specialist partners to recognise not just delivery, but leadership, collaboration and long-term impact. As Awards Director Colin Walsh has stated, the ICE Awards represent the point where “vision meets execution”, celebrating those who go beyond industry standards to redefine them.

  Reaching finalist stage is a significant achievement in itself. It represents independent validation from the most experienced and diverse judging panels in the industry — a peer-reviewed process that underpins the credibility and prestige of the awards.

  Celebrating excellence  – 28 May, Convention Centre Dublin

  The ICE Awards is delighted to welcome Kevin McGahern as the Gala MC for 2026. Kevin has been performing stand-up since 2009 and is a familiar face on Irish TV.

  Colin expressed his excitement for the upcoming Gala saying, “On behalf of the ICE Awards team and myself, I wish the finalists the very best of luck. We are really looking forward to celebrating your achievements at the ICE Awards 2026 Gala, taking place at the Convention Centre Dublin on 28 May.” Fondly referred to as ‘Construction’s Big Night Out,’ this event is set to be another truly spectacular evening, recognising the hard work and excellence within the industry. “We are delighted to have Kevin McGahern as our host, and look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming first-time attendees at the Gala,” Colin added.

  Limited tickets for the ICE Awards 2026 Gala are available for general attendance. Visit www.ICEAwards.ie to book.

  Judging excellence

  The ICE Awards Judging Process aligns with and, in many cases, exceeds best practice internationally. This makes the ICE Awards distinctive in rigour and prestige.

  The ICE Awards Judging Process is multi-level with a team of judges reviewing every entry and scoring with their expertise in mind. The construction project and initiative finalists now move to the interview stage where they will meet the expert Judges for a round of face-to-face interviews, make a presentation and have Q&A sessions. This level of engagement reaffirms the credibility and effort required by the entrants to win these prestigious awards.

  The ICE Awards 2026 are assessed by an expert panel of distinguished professionals drawn from across the full spectrum of the AEC disciplines, ensuring a fair, robust and peer-reviewed evaluation process. The 2026 judging panel comprises Emma Hayes, BIM Consultant; PJ Rudden, Civil and Environmental Engineer; John McGowan, Chartered Engineer; Keith Elliott, Project Manager; Mary C. Flynn, Quantity Surveyor and BIM Manager; Dr Derek Sinnott, Chartered Engineer and Management Consultant; Dorothy Jones, Project Manager; Phelim Devine, Chartered Engineer; Marcella Murphy, Executive Manager; Clement Kavanagh, Project Director; Damien Kilgannon, Quantity Surveyor and Project Manager; Tim Segal, Lecturer and BIM Coordinator; Emer Byrne, Chartered Valuation Surveyor and Lecturer; Gerard Harvey, Architect; Brian Kavanagh, Chartered Engineer; Marion Ní Chadhain, Chartered Surveyor and Property Services Manager; Kieran O’Neill, Health and Safety Consultant; Gerard P. Monaghan, Chartered Engineer and Arbitrator; Dr Daniel O’Neill, Procurement Project Manager; Yvonne Murphy, Civil Engineer and Project Manager; Martin Searson, MMC Certification Professional; Paul O’Shea, Risk Consultant; Donal Hutchinson, Chartered Engineer; and Charles Mitchell, Quantity Surveying Technical Advisor. Collectively, the panel represents decades of experience across engineering, architecture, surveying, digital construction, procurement, sustainability, risk management and major project delivery, underpinning the credibility and prestige of the awards.

  Sponsors

  The ICE Awards acknowledge the ongoing support of its sponsors, many of whom have been supporting the competition for some years.

  Gold Sponsors: Sika Ireland, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Construction Industry Federation (CIF), NTI Diatec Group, Howden, Skillnet MMC Accelerate, Dulux Trade

  Silver Sponsors: CPAS, Pipelife, Lumen Search, Lean Construction Ireland (LCi), Irish building magazine.

  Click here to view the 2026 Finalists and read more about the ICE Awards Judges and Sponsors.

   

  The post ICE Awards 2026 first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 16, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Kirby announces fourth intake for college bursary scheme

  Kirby Group Engineering has announced the recipients of its third-level bursary awards for this year, as part of the company’s ongoing drive to promote diversity and inclusion in the engineering sector. Six female students have been selected this year, as the programme goes from strength to strength.

  Kirby is a family-founded firm based in Limerick and has operations across Ireland, the UK, mainland Europe, the Nordics, and South Africa. It employs over 1,900 people and provides full mechanical and electrical contracting services as well as specialist high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) design and construction services. Its clients include a number of global IT leaders and range across different sectors including Data Centres, Life Sciences, Industrial, and Power and Renewables.

  Now in its fourth year, Kirby’s bursary programme is open to women studying Electrical, Mechanical, or Building Services Engineering at third level institutions across Ireland and South Africa. Having come through a rigorous selection process conducted by Kirby’s Talent Acquisition team, the six recipients will receive:

  • A full scholarship to cover the coming academic year

  • Paid professional placements on Kirby’s local and international projects

  • Mentorship from senior engineers

  • Opportunities to gain highly valuable industry insights

  This year’s winning students are Aisling Costelloe from Ennis, Co Clare; Meadhbh Hurley from Limerick; Caoimhe Flynn from Kilcolgan, Co Galway; Emilia Hildebrandt from Tipperary; Sarah Coyle from Belmullet, Co Mayo; and Emma Prestage from Cape Town, South Africa.

  Kirby’s Chief Operations Officer, John Grogan, believes the bursary programme is an extremely worthwhile investment: “Initiatives such as this play an important role in demonstrating the benefits of careers in engineering and construction and more importantly, ensuring those messages reach as wide an audience as possible. The bursary programme is a symbol of Kirby’s commitment to promoting diversity and above all, our identity as a people first organisation”.

  Meadhbh Hurley is a student at University of Galway. She says she’s delighted to have been selected: “Kirby’s recognition of me as a deserving candidate for this bursary has reinforced my belief in myself as a developing electrical engineer and will bolster my confidence through my future professional development.”

  Caoimhe Flynn, who is also studying at University of Galway has been speaking about her hopes for the bursary: “I will gain significant experience through work placements and mentorship which will greatly aid my studies while allowing me to expand my networks and meet other like-minded women in the field of engineering.”

  Emma Prestage, who is from Cape Town and a student at Stellenbosch University says an opportunity like this bursary can be a very important career boost: “For a student, the hardest part is often getting the “first foothold” of real experience. Knowing that Kirby is investing in my development, and that there will be chances to learn on real projects and from experienced engineers, is incredibly valuable.”

  Sarah Coyle is studying at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway. She says diversity in the industry is crucial: “It is important to me that women are visible in the engineering industry, as their presence inspires the next generation, including myself, to pursue careers in engineering with confidence and ambition”

  Emilia Hildebrandt is a student at University of Limerick. She expects that having the bursary’s support will help her spread the word that engineering is for everyone: “It would also allow me to dedicate more time to projects and events to share that knowledge and to encourage fellow students and younger students in pursuing engineering. I have always been someone who loves to get involved, and I’m very thankful that this bursary gives me the opportunity to be able to now spend more time giving back to my community in the year ahead.”

  Aisling Costelloe, another Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Galway student says she sees potential for working with Kirby well into the future: “I hope to join a graduate programme with Kirby, which I believe would open the door to incredible opportunities. With Kirby’s global presence and its strong foundation in Ireland, I would have the chance to work on engineering projects around the world, contributing to solutions that improve the world we live in.”

  Electrical Engineering Manager at Kirby, Amy Lane is among the leaders supporting the students. She says the scheme has become a valued part of Kirby’s structure: “I’m thrilled to say we are entering the fourth year of our third-level bursary programme.  It has been a pleasure to meet and work with many highly talented and motivated students and this year’s intake is no different. Programmes like this one are vital to the future of engineering, one in which diversity is the norm and Kirby will continue to champion that cause, as a people-first organisation.”

  Pictured above: Group Electrical Engineering Manager Amy Lane, Chief Operations Officer  John Grogan, Bursary recipients Emilia Hildebrand, Sarah Coyle, Caoimhe Flynn, Meadhbh Hurley and Aisling Costelloe, Graduate Electrical Engineer Rosa Condori and HR Graduate Hannah Keogh. Photo: Alan Place.

  Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates

  The post Kirby announces fourth intake for college bursary scheme first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 13, 2026

• Rowan Wexford Local Development

  Wexford Local Development are pleased to offer a series of free, full day workshops, delivered by Rowan, to empower community members living in or near Wexford’s Natura 2000 sites to value and contribute to the protection of these important areas. The workshops are open to all interested community groups, individuals and farmers.  Registration is now…

  The post Wexford Local Development first appeared on Rowan Engineering Consultants.

February 12, 2026

• Cleere Project Office Choose the right first sustainability project (a simple scoring method for SMEs)
  Choose the right first sustainability project (a simple scoring method for SMEs) Running a business is busy. You’re juggling customers, staff, suppliers, cashflow and then you hear “sustainability” and it can feel like a massive extra job. The good news is you don’t need a big programme to start. Some SMEs fail at sustainability because […]

February 11, 2026

• ORS What is World Energy Day?

  World Energy Day has been celebrated internationally on February 14th since 1949. It is a day with the purpose of raising awareness for the importance of promoting renewable energy in a world which is dominated by the use of harmful fossil fuels for energy. It promotes the transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biomass, to fight climate change and ensure environmental protection.

  What can you do as a business to support this cause?

  Reducing Building Energy Needs

  The buildings in which businesses operate, whether it be offices, retail spaces, factories, or warehouses, have a long-term impact on energy consumption. Decisions related to the building fabric, including insulation levels in walls and roofs, the performance of windows and doors, and air-tightness, directly influence heating and overall energy demand. Targeted upgrades, such as replacing inefficient lighting systems with high-efficiency LED solutions, can deliver immediate and substantial energy savings while improving lighting quality and reducing maintenance requirements. A range of energy efficiency measures are identified through an energy audit of your business. The ORS Sustainabilty Team can help with this.

  Raise Awareness with Staff

  Energy performance is not determined by building design alone. Occupant behaviour also plays a significant role. Raising awareness among staff about how energy is consumed within the workplace can lead to meaningful reductions with minimal capital investment. Simple actions, such as responsible use of lighting and equipment, appropriate temperature set-points, and understanding how building systems operate, can collectively have a large impact. Engaging staff through training, clear communication, and visible energy goals helps embed energy efficiency into daily operations and supports long-term cultural change within the organisation.

  Implementing Energy Management Systems

  Implementing an energy management system allows organisations to monitor, control, and reduce energy consumption more effectively. Establishing procedures for tracking and reporting energy use helps identify inefficiencies and supports informed decision-making, while sharing performance data with staff encourages engagement. Successful implementation requires senior management commitment, a clear energy policy, defined objectives and targets, regular performance review, and the appointment of energy champions to support ongoing improvement.

  Make the Switch to Renewable Energy Sources

  Once energy demand has been reduced as far as practical, transitioning to renewable energy sources becomes significantly more effective. Renewable technologies such as on-site solar PV or heat pumps can substantially lower a business’s carbon footprint. Importantly, renewables are most impactful when paired with efficient buildings and systems, as this reduces the required system size, capital cost, and reliance on energy infrastructure. ORS engineers can assess site suitability, system sizing, and payback periods, ensuring that your investment in renewables is both environmentally and financially sound.

  Conclusion

  Supporting the global energy transition begins with understanding how energy is consumed within a business. Reducing energy demand through efficient buildings and informed operational practices is just as important as changing how that energy is supplied. Energy efficiency measures should not be overlooked and should be implemented first, the integration of renewable energy becomes the final step in creating a resilient, cost-effective, and genuinely sustainable energy strategy. For businesses, this approach not only supports global energy goals but also delivers long-term operational and economic value. 

  Contact our Sustainability team on info@ors.ie or +353 1524 2060 for more information or to arrange an energy audit for your business.

  The post What is World Energy Day? first appeared on ORS.

February 10, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Temporary Works – Why Early Collaboration Matters

  In construction, some of the biggest challenges come from what’s been overlooked. Temporary works are a prime example. Despite being fundamental to buildability, safety and programme certainty, they can still often be an afterthought, introduced after key design decisions have been made.

  Here, Gary Keenan, Sales Manager at MH International explores how early engagement within temporary works can unlock significant value across a project’s lifecycle

  With over 60 years’ experience delivering temporary works solutions on a global scale, we have seen first-hand the difference early involvement can make. By contributing at the early design stages, a temporary works specialist can enable a more proactive approach, helping to shape safer, more efficient and better-informed schemes.

  Why timing matters

  As with every element of construction, timing is crucial. Temporary works are no exception. While it may seem like common sense for temporary works to be included in the initial strategy stage of a project, the reality can be very different, brought in after the permanent design has been approved – or worse, once work is already underway. This late engagement has the potential to cause considerable issues, for a project’s budget, carbon footprint and timeline, as well as the ability to foresee any potential engineering challenges.

  In contrast, bringing temporary works into the conversation early on allows teams to anticipate challenges, rather than react to them. It is for this reason that we always advocate taking a proactive approach to temporary works and encourage our customers to do the same.

  Collaboration

  When temporary and permanent works are designed together, rather than in isolation, the result is a more cohesive and efficient design. By visualising them in conjunction, construction teams can better plan and prepare, with the ability to detect and solve potential clashes, consider design efficiencies and streamline the overall process.

  Early collaboration also has clear health and safety benefits. With a clear visualisation of the proposed scheme, contractors can better identify and mitigate any potential hazards and risks.

  Technology-led design

  Whether it’s a simple scheme design or using 3D modelling software, design should be at the forefront. Using the latest technology, we help our customers to design winning bids, reduce the costs of construction, minimise rework, speed up delivery and improve safety.

  By visualising the temporary and permanent together using augmented reality design tools (such as our immersive EVE design solution), teams can better plan and prepare, including being able to foresee any technical challenges or design considerations that must be overcome. Open collaboration is supported through access to AutoCAD and Revit BIM files, along with comprehensive technical data for our range of equipment.

  Out on site

  Once a project reaches site, this shouldn’t mark the end of the collaboration. From coordinating deliveries and providing monitoring solutions for insight into the behaviour of your structure or building environment, to assessing the completed assembly and providing a handover certificate.

  MH International

  We are committed to providing engineered, bespoke temporary works solutions across civil infrastructure and building projects. Our expertise spans groundworks support, propping, hydraulic jacking, temporary access and temporary bridging.

  With a full-service offering, we’re ready to help at all stages of a project, from design and supply through to on-site delivery and monitoring. Plus, our new Ireland depot (located in Portlaoise) and dedicated Irish support team makes it even easier to benefit from our high-quality of service.

  For more information, please visit MH International online

  The post Temporary Works – Why Early Collaboration Matters first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 09, 2026

• Irish Electric Vehicle Association ePower Tullamore Retail Park Opening
  

  ePower's after opening their latest, and largest, high power charging hub. It's located in Tullamore Retail Park, Tullamore, Co. Offaly - just off the N52 (& five minutes from the distillery if you're looking to pick up a Tullamore D.E.W. Honey).

  
• Irish Building Magazine Jones Engineering Returns to iWish reinforcing its Commitment to Women in STEM

  Jones Engineering has returned to the iWish Showcase Event for the second consecutive year, continuing its commitment to inspiring young women to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

  The event took place at the RDS in Dublin, bringing together thousands of students, educators and industry leaders from across the country.

  Building on its successful participation last year, Jones Engineering once again hosted an interactive stand designed to give students a hands-on insight into the real-world impact of engineering. Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about the company’s wide-ranging projects and its apprenticeship and graduate programmes, which support early-career talent at every stage.

  As one of Ireland’s leading engineering companies, Jones Engineering places a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion and long-term skills development. Its continued involvement in iWish reflects a broader ambition to address skills shortages in the sector while encouraging more young women to see engineering as a viable, rewarding and future-focused career path.

  Carmel Walsh, Chief People Officer at Jones Engineering, said: “Returning to iWish for a second year is incredibly important to us. Events like this give us the chance to speak directly to young women at a pivotal moment, to demystify what engineering looks like today and to show that there is space for them in this industry. We want students to see that engineering is creative, collaborative, impactful, and that there are clear pathways for them to build fulfilling careers with companies like Jones.”

  Jones Engineering currently employs more than 300 apprentices and 150 graduate engineers across Ireland and continues to invest heavily in training, education and partnerships with third-level institutions. Through initiatives such as dedicated training facilities and targeted programmes to support women in engineering, the company is actively working to build a more representative workforce for the future.

  Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates

  The post Jones Engineering Returns to iWish reinforcing its Commitment to Women in STEM first appeared on Irish building magazine.

• Irish Building Magazine Redlough announces next phase of growth with new brand identity

  Redlough, one of Ireland’s leading landscape contractors, has announced the next phase of its growth with the launch of a new brand identity, reflecting the company’s evolution, expanded capabilities, and long-term vision for the future.

  Founded over 40 years ago, Redlough has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality landscaping, grounds maintenance, and public realm projects across corporate, public, and infrastructure sectors. The rebrand marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, aligning its visual identity with its modern, forward-looking approach while remaining rooted in the values that have underpinned its success for decades.

  As part of this growth phase, Redlough has expanded its workforce in excess of 100 employees with continued recruitment planned across operational, technical, and management roles. This growth supports increasing demand for the company’s services nationwide and reinforces its commitment to long-term investment in people, skills, and training.

  The company continues to operate from its base in strengthening its presence in the Dublin region while delivering projects throughout Ireland.

  Commenting on the announcement, Aaron Redmond, Director of Redlough said: “This rebrand represents more than a new look, it reflects how far Redlough has come and where we are going. We’ve grown significantly in recent years, expanding our team, our expertise, and the scale of projects we deliver. This next phase is about building on that momentum while staying true to our commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability.”

  Cillian Loughnane, Director, added: “Our people are central to Redlough’s success. As we continue to grow our workforce and invest in training and development, this new brand gives us a strong platform to support our clients, attract new talent, and deliver outstanding landscapes for years to come.”

  The updated brand will be rolled out across Redlough’s website, signage, vehicles, and project communications over the coming months, providing a consistent and modern identity that reflects the company’s position as a trusted partner across commercial, public sector, and urban infrastructure projects.

  Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates

  The post Redlough announces next phase of growth with new brand identity first appeared on Irish building magazine.

• DBFL Danny Pio Murphy Wins D&I Leader/Emerging Leader Award
  The post Danny Pio Murphy Wins D&I Leader/Emerging Leader Award appeared first on DBFL Consulting Engineers.

• Irish Building Magazine Sisk commences OPW Building at Limerick’s Opera Square

  Sisk has been appointed as the main contractor for the OPW new 14 storey Landmark Office Building at Opera Square in the heart of Limerick City with construction set to begin in the coming weeks.

  The project marks a significant milestone in the wider Limerick Twenty Thirty (LTT) programme, which is transforming the economic and urban landscape of the city and region. Once complete, the building will stand as Limerick’s, and the Mid-West’s, tallest building, overlooking the Abbey River at Bank Place.

  The OPW has engaged LTT to deliver the development, reflecting strong confidence in LTT’s proven track record, including recent delivery of the site wide basement works and the One Opera Square building. Sisk will construct the building’s shell and core, including structure, façades, roof, and primary building services.

  The 30-month construction programme will employ up to 300 people on site and will deliver 100,000 sq. ft. of high-quality office accommodation. Designed to meet the Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standard, the development will operate entirely on renewable energy sources, supporting the State’s energy efficiency and emissions reduction goals.

  Once operational, the building will serve as a major hub for Government departments in the Mid-West, consolidating up to 1,500 civil servants, 950 at any one time under a hybrid working model, into a modern, digitally enabled workspace. The project will also contribute to reducing the number of buildings in the OPW’s portfolio while supporting the regeneration of Limerick’s city centre.

  Leanne Broderick, Managing Director, Sisk said: “Having recently completed the One Opera Square building, we are looking forward to partnering with Limerick Twenty Thirty again to deliver the OPW Building. As we commence works on site, our local knowledge and collaborative approach will be central to delivering this project successfully.”

  Minister of State for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, said: “I am delighted to be here today to announce the appointment of Sisk and look forward to the commencement of what is an important project for the OPW, Limerick and the wider Mid-West region. This substantial investment in Limerick clearly demonstrates this government’s strong commitment to balanced regional development.”

  Local leaders also welcomed the project’s progress. Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery, highlighted the positive impact on the city centre, noting that the development will bring renewed activity, investment, and footfall to Limerick. Chair of Limerick Twenty Thirty, James Collins, emphasised the significance of delivering one of the most ambitious elements of the Opera Square masterplan and acknowledged the OPW’s confidence in LTT and its partners.

  Pictured above: James Collins, Chairman LTT, Leanne Broderick, Sisk, Mayor of Limerick John Moran, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, Kieran O’Donnell, Minister of State for Older People and Housing, Pat Daly, Chief Executive Limerick City and County Council and John Conlon, Chairman OPW. Pic Arthur Ellis

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  The post Sisk commences OPW Building at Limerick’s Opera Square first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 05, 2026

• Rowan The Rowan client tour continues at An Post

  As Tom Rowan spent time on site with clients.Tom with Brendan Fitzpatrick Insurance Manager at An Post Insurance, at their impressive HQ in the EXO Building at the Point — overlooking the Liffey as far as the Aviva, even on a classic rainy day in Dublin.Thanks to Brendan and the wider An Post team for…

  The post The Rowan client tour continues at An Post first appeared on Rowan Engineering Consultants.

February 04, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine MH International opens new Irish depot

  Temporary works supplier MH International has expanded its operations with the opening of an Irish depot in Portlaoise.

  The move represents a major investment and underlines its long-term commitment to supporting the Irish construction and infrastructure sectors. 

  The expansion comes in response to sustained business growth across the region and increasing demand for specialist temporary works solutions. By establishing a strong physical presence in Ireland, MH International aims to deliver an even greater quality of service to both new and existing customers.

  To maintain a first-class service to its customers, MH International has also appointed a dedicated ‘on the ground’ sales and support team. The new depot will serve as a central hub for the company’s comprehensive portfolio of temporary works solutions, ranging from propping and jacking to groundworks and temporary bridging. Customers will also benefit from MH International’s end-to-end service offering, spanning in-house design, supply, installation and real-time monitoring.

  Speaking about the investment, John Breen, Managing Director, said: “This is an extremely exciting time, both for everyone at MH International and the industry. While we already have a strong presence in the Irish market, the opening of a dedicated depot marks the start of a new chapter. Led by Wayne Fisher, our International Business Development Director, we hope it is one that will enable us to elevate our service levels and forge stronger relationships with our customers, existing and new.”

  The depot has created new jobs locally and is expected to play a key role in supporting major Irish building and infrastructure projects over the coming years.

  With a focus on engineering and service excellence, MH International provides engineered, bespoke temporary works solutions across the civil infrastructure, residential, commercial, health and technology sectors on a global basis.

  For more information, visit the MH International website.

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  The post MH International opens new Irish depot first appeared on Irish building magazine.

February 03, 2026

• DBFL Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan
  The post Dún Laoghaire Harbour Masterplan appeared first on DBFL Consulting Engineers.

• Irish Building Magazine 2026 Octabuild Awards officially launched

  Octabuild has officially launched the 2026 all-island Builders Merchant Excellence Awards, with builders’ merchants across the island invited to enter when submissions open on 2nd February 2026.

  The Octabuild Awards celebrate the builders’ merchant trade, recognising businesses and individuals who are setting high standards in operational performance, customer service, people development and innovation.

  Octabuild’s members, leading Irish manufacturers – Bostik, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement and Kingspan Insulation – are united by a long-standing commitment to supporting excellence across the building, construction and DIY sectors, and to strengthening Ireland’s home-grown supply chain.

  For 2026, the Awards have been refreshed to reflect the realities of modern merchanting, with emphasis on sustainability, digital capability and people, alongside the core principles of operational and customer excellence.

  Speaking at the launch, Mike Glennon, Chairperson of Octabuild, said: ‘The Octabuild Awards are your awards and designed to showcase what’s best in our industry. They remain a cornerstone of our engagement with the merchant sector. As the industry continues to modernise, our focus is on recognising the businesses and people who are leading the way – whether through innovation, sustainability or strong investment in their teams. I strongly encourage merchants of all sizes to take part.’

  Three new awards have been introduced for 2026:
  the Unsung Hero Award, recognising behind-the-scenes contribution;
  the Sustainable Business Excellence Award, celebrating meaningful environmental action; and
  the Digital Excellence Award, recognising progress in digital capability and innovation.

  The judging panel has also been refreshed for 2026, bringing together Phil Derby, Steve Collinge, Brian McIntyreand Lorraine Higgins, whose combined expertise spans merchant operations, business strategy, sustainability and digital transformation.

  Mike Glennon added: ‘The entry process has been designed with busy merchant teams in mind. Clear guidance allows entrants to focus on showcasing genuine achievements, supported by practical examples and evidence of real impact.’

  Entries close on 31st March 2026, with winners to be announced at an Awards ceremony at a gala event in The Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin on Thursday, 1st October 2026. Full details available at www.octabuild.ie/awards

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January 30, 2026

• DBFL Mercedes-Benz North Dublin Showroom
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January 29, 2026

• Rowan All in a month’s work at Elevated Surveys.

  Surveying isn’t glamorous.It is precise, regulated, and unforgiving if you get it wrong. That’s why we use drones, GPS, Total stations, and specialised software to turn complex, messy sites into clear, defensible data — for engineers, planners, contractors and local authorities. If it needs to be measured properly, we can do it. Plants Every single…

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January 28, 2026

• DBFL Redevelopment of Páirc Tailteann
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January 26, 2026

• DBFL Chapel Road Improvement Scheme
  The post Chapel Road Improvement Scheme appeared first on DBFL Consulting Engineers.

• Irish Building Magazine DCC seeks housing delivery partnership opportunities

  Dublin City Council has announced plans to seek Partnership Development Opportunities through Development Agreements with developers and landowners to deliver large-scale mixed-tenure residential developments across the city.

  The forthcoming call for proposals will invite third party developers and landowners to submit proposals for the delivery of a minimum of 100 social housing units per development, ideally including a mix of other tenures such as cost rental, affordable purchase and private housing. Proposals may include sites with or without planning permission and will include, where required, community or cultural facilities in line with Dublin City Council’s Development Plan.

  The initiative aims to accelerate housing delivery to 2030 promoting tenure diversity while ensuring high-quality design that aligns with the City Development plan and Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage housing design standards and guidelines.

  Dublin City Council published pre-market consultation (PMC) via Prior Information Notice (PIN) on 23 January. It is expected that a shortlisting process will be undertaken in the coming months with the award of partnership agreements anticipated by the end of the year.

  Further details will be published through official procurement channels.

  The City Council will host an in person information event on 19 February and an online information event on 27 February. To register your interest in attendance email callforhousing@dublincity.ie

  Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam: “Delivering homes at scale is one of the most pressing challenges facing our city, and it is a challenge we can only meet by working together, with pace, ambition and a clear focus on quality.

  “This Partnership Development Opportunity is about unlocking sites across Dublin to deliver large-scale, mixed-tenure neighbourhoods with a strong social housing core, alongside cost rental, affordable purchase and private homes, in a way that stands the test of time. It reflects the pillars of my mayoralty: a Living City with secure homes, an Active City with well-planned neighbourhoods and amenities, and an Engaged City where communities help shape what is delivered. Dublin needs homes — but we also need complete communities. This initiative is a practical step to deliver both, at scale, and to ensure that the growth of our city is inclusive, well-designed, and rooted in long-term value for the people of Dublin.”

  Mick Mulhern Dublin City Council Assistant Chief Executive Housing: “This Call for Housing proposals will allow Dublin City Council to work collaboratively with landowners and the development sector to bring forward ambitious, high-quality housing schemes at scale. It is designed to unlock development sites across the city and will deliver best value while meeting our social and affordable housing objectives.”

  Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD: “This will seriously complement Dublin City Council’s ambitious plan for the delivery of social and affordable homes on Dublin City Council-owned land to support reaching their social and affordable delivery. Under the Government’s new Housing Action Plan, ‘Delivering Homes, Building Communities’, we have pledged to build 300,000 homes by 2030. All of this work is about each new dwelling which will provide a secure home for individuals and families where they can put down roots – grow up and grow old in. I want to back ambition in our local authorities, and I want to see more of this.”

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• Irish Building Magazine SOCOTEC Expands Irish Operations

  SOCOTEC, a global operator in testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services, has opened a new office in Dublin, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategic expansion across Ireland.

  The development follows SOCOTEC’s acquisition of infrastructure firm Lloyds Datum Group earlier this year, as the firm looks to provide more of its comprehensive technical consultancy services throughout the Irish market.

  The addition of the new Dublin office represents a natural progression from SOCOTEC’s existing engineering facility in Letterkenny, which has been serving customers across Ireland and the UK with specialised fire engineering services.

  The capital city location positions SOCOTEC to serve its growing Irish client base better and deliver expanded service offerings across multiple sectors, with a focus on engineering services, including structural engineering and fire engineering services.

  Heading up the Dublin office for SOCOTEC will be Wayne Somanna, Associate Director for Fire Engineering, who said of the news: “Our business unit is focusing on strategic, specific key targets rather than mass expansion and while this Dublin office is primarily for engineering use, it’s a good indication of what SOCOTEC plans to do when it comes to further expansion into the country.

  “We’re not only focusing on engineering but offering holistic technical consultancy services.”

  SOCOTEC’s Irish Fire Engineering provide comprehensive Fire Safety Engineering Services, Access and Use Consultancy, Ancillary Certification, Fire Safety Audits and Fire Risk Assessment Services. The company works with clients from project inception through completion, developing Fire Safety Strategies, Fire Safety Certificates, Disability Access Certificates and providing on-site BC(A)R inspections and Certification services.

  In Ireland, SOCOTEC has established a substantial client base, including major developments and institutions across various sectors, with an extensive range of technical service contracts having been won over the last year or so, while also providing support services to SOCOTEC’s UK operations.

  Matthew Marriott, CEO of SOCOTEC UK and Ireland, said: “Our new Dublin office is the next logical step for SOCOTEC, following our acquisition of Lloyds Datum Group, and when combined with our engineering expertise and environmental services, positions us to offer clients a complete range of technical consultancy solutions.”

  SOCOTEC’s expansion into Ireland aligns with the company’s global growth strategy, leveraging its expertise across 26 countries to serve more than 200,000 clients worldwide.

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January 23, 2026

• DBFL Gaelcholáiste Mhuire Extension
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January 22, 2026

• DBFL Penneys/Primark Distribution Centre, Newbridge
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• MIDAS Ireland Equal1 raises $60M to accelerate quantum computing using existing semiconductor manufacturing
  

  Picture by Fergal Phillips

  $60M raised from ISIF, Atlantic Bridge Ventures, European Innovation Council Fund, Matterwave Ventures, Enterprise Ireland, Elkstone and TNO Ventures—bringing total funding to over $85M.

  Equal1 develops quantum processors on existing semiconductor fabs, bringing semiconductor-scale manufacturing to quantum computing – a chip company for the quantum age.

  The approach is validated by flagship customers, such as the European Space Agency (ESA), where Equal1 will install Bell-1, their standard rack-based, plug- and-play quantum computer, into ESA’s Space High Performance Compute (HPC) Center in Italy.

  Equal1, a quantum semiconductor company, today announced it has raised $60M to accelerate development of scalable, silicon-based quantum computers and deployment of its datacenter-ready Bell-1 quantum server.

  The round was led by the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF), with participation from Atlantic Bridge, the European Innovation Council Fund, Matterwave Ventures, Enterprise Ireland, Elkstone and TNO Ventures.

  McKinsey estimates quantum computing could unlock $100 billion in value by 2035. A key barrier to capturing this value is the cost and specialised infrastructure current technologies demand. Equal1’s approach solves this.

  As AI drives exponential growth in compute demand, power and cost are becoming major constraints. Quantum computing promises to go far beyond the capabilities of even the most powerful computers today, unlocking applications from new material discovery for better drugs or batteries, next generation grid optimization and financial portfolio optimization.

  At scale, quantum computing will put our current AI compute infrastructure on a more sustainable energy trajectory delivering advantage, not as a replacement, but as a tightly integrated accelerator.

  Today’s quantum problem isn’t physics – it’s production. Current quantum computers demand huge investment: custom fabrication, exotic cooling, specialist teams. Equal1 delivers a different model: quantum servers where cost, ease of deployment, power efficiency, and integration are first-order requirements.

  Equal1 develops its quantum computers using today’s silicon semiconductor industry. This unlocks semiconductor economics: costs that fall with volume, yields that improve with iteration. Other architectures require dedicated manufacturing infrastructure. Equal1 taps what already exists.

  The result is Bell·1 – a rack-mounted quantum server for standard datacenter environments. No dilution refrigerators. No dedicated facilities. No team of physicists. It arrives on wheels: roll it in, plug it in, start computing. Equal1 is shipping today, including to ESA’s Space HPC Centre in Italy.

  The $60M round, expected to expand with follow-on investors in the coming months, builds on significant technical and commercial momentum. The funding will:

  Deploy Bell·1 into the world’s leading HPC centres

  Embed quantum into real workloads

  Advance the company roadmap towards millions of on-chip qubits

  Scale manufacturing through existing foundry partnerships

  Grow the team to deliver production quantum at scale

  “This $60M in funding marks the transition of Equal1 from development to deployment,” said Jason Lynch, CEO of Equal1. “As AI pushes classical computing into power and cost limits, quantum is the way forward, but only if it can be manufactured and deployed like the rest of the stack. By building quantum processors on standard silicon, we’re turning quantum from bespoke hardware into deployable infrastructure – positioning Equal1 as the quantum standard for HPC.”

  “This commitment aligns with ISIF’s double bottom line mandate to invest commercially while supporting economic activity and employment in Ireland. Backing innovative Irish companies like Equal1 as they scale internationally is central to ISIF’s scaling indigenous businesses investment theme. Equal1 is already making its mark in silicon-based quantum technology and we look forward to working with Equal1 as it enters its next phase, helping to realise its vision for the advancement of quantum computing technology in Ireland,” said Brian O’Connor, Senior Investment Director at ISIF.

  “Atlantic Bridge, who has helped build the company since inception, recognised Equal1’s potential to fundamentally change the future of quantum computing,” said Gerry Maguire, Board Director at Equal1 and General Partner at Atlantic Bridge. “This funding milestone is a significant step forward, enabling Equal1 to move from breakthrough innovation to commercialisation, and we are proud to continue supporting the team as they execute on this next phase of growth.”

  Svetoslava Georgieva, Chair of the EIC Fund Board, said: “Equal1’s approach –building on standard Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible semiconductor manufacturing — aligns directly with Europe’s semiconductor and quantum ambitions. The EIC Fund is proud to back a European company turning breakthrough science into industrial reality.”

  Amanda Ward, Head of Digital Technologies at Enterprise Ireland said: “Innovation from pioneering Irish businesses like Equal1 are gaining increasing international recognition and Enterprise Ireland is delighted to have supported the company on each stage of its rapid growth. Our investment is an endorsement of Equal1’s ground-breaking technology, team, and global reach. This investment directly reflects our strategic focus on supporting ambitious companies to scale globally and we look forward to working with Equal1 on their continued growth and scaling plans.”

  Source: Equal1

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• MIDAS Ireland Qualcomm announces flagship €125m investment in AI transformation for Cork

  

   

  • Expansion comes on 10th anniversary of hiring its first engineer in Ireland and is expected to see headcount at Penrose and Horgan’s Quay facilities increase to more than 1000 people

  • Latest investment helps strengthen Ireland and Cork’s position as a global hub for R&D, by creating 100s of highly skilled new R&D roles

  • This investment will further support Qualcomm’s aim of advancing AI to make its core capabilities – perception, reasoning and action – ubiquitous across devices

  January 16, 2026 - Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, has announced a €125m investment that will see the transformation of the Cork site into a strategic AI pillar in the global chipmaker’s organisation over the next three years.

  Founded in 1985 and headquartered in San Diego, CA, Qualcomm is a global leader in wireless technology and advanced semiconductors. The company develops cellular standards such as 4G, 5G, and now 6G. It is also one of the world’s largest fabless semiconductor companies, which sees it provide critical advanced semiconductor technology across mobile, wearables, PC, XR, IoT, automotive and data centres.

  Qualcomm Technologies has had a presence in Cork since 2013, and this year it celebrates 10 years since it hired its first engineer in the city. In that time, Qualcomm has embedded itself in the community and has built strong relationships with UCC, MTU, and Tyndall, helping support the next generation of Irish engineers through internships and graduate role opportunities.

  This flagship project, which is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, plans to undertake a new RD&I project in Cork, leveraging current capabilities to align with Qualcomm’s diversification strategy beyond mobile technology into areas such as PC,. XR/VR, IoT, automotive, and data centres.

  Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment Peter Burke TD said:

  "Today’s announcement by Qualcomm is a powerful endorsement of Ireland’s ambition to lead globally in advanced research, next generation computing and AI. This €125 million investment further strengthens Ireland’s position as a hub of deep tech innovation, creating hundreds of high value jobs. This announcement is also a signal of support for Silicon Island: Ireland’s National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to make Ireland a world leader in semiconductors through securing long term investments, developing a robust talent pipeline and seizing opportunities in technologies of the future such as AI.
  Qualcomm’s continued expansion builds on Ireland’s strong semiconductor ecosystem and demonstrates the value of the collaborative environment we have fostered between industry, academia and Government. The Government is proud to support this strategically significant project through IDA Ireland, and I wish the team at Qualcomm the very best for the future."

  EVP, Chief Strategy and Corporate Development Officer of Qualcomm Incorporated, Colin Ryan said:

  "Qualcomm's success and ongoing growth in Ireland reflect the strength of our partnerships with the Government, IDA Ireland and Irish universities. This investment underscores Cork's importance as a strategic Global R&D hub for Qualcomm and our commitment to supporting Ireland's innovation ecosystem."

  Vice President of Engineering at QT Technologies Ireland Limited, Paul Kelleher said:

  "Qualcomm is proud of what we’ve achieved in Ireland—and we are even more excited about what’s ahead. We’re not just building technology; we’re shaping the future, right here in Cork.”

  IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said:

  “I wish to congratulate the entire team in Qualcomm on the announcement of this landmark investment - a substantial and complex project in both its scale and scope, reflecting its strategic and transformative nature. This €125m R&D investment and the future jobs it will create, positions Qualcomm Ireland at the forefront of technological and product development in the AI-era. Today’s event also recognises a decade since Qualcomm hired its first engineer in Ireland, I wish you continued success and assure the team of IDA Ireland’s continued partnership and support.”

   

  Source: IDA

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• Rowan Rowan announces a number of senior and graduate appointments

  Rowan, the multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in environmental, sustainability and forensic engineering services, has announced details of a number of new appointments across its environmental and sustainability team, reflecting the company’s continued growth and expansion. Michelle O’Donnell has been appointed Environmental and Sustainability Director. Michelle brings over 15 years’ global leadership experience across scientific, government, regulatory,…

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• Irish Building Magazine Sisk secures seat as SDG Champions

  Sisk has announced its appointment as one of Ireland’s new Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions for the 2025–2027 programme, which was announced at the end of 2025 by Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien.

  Sisk’s sustainability team will be joined by 19 other organisations selected from across Ireland to help drive national progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals over the next 18 months.

  This year’s appointments bring the total number of SDG Champions in Ireland to 74, reflecting strong national momentum behind the 2030 Agenda. More than 90 organisations applied for the programme, demonstrating widespread engagement across public, private, community and voluntary sectors.

  As an SDG Champion, Sisk will work to raise awareness of the goals, showcase practical action through sustainable construction and innovation, and collaborate with fellow champions and SDG Ambassadors to support Ireland’s progress.

  Working with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, with this role, Sisk will continue to advocate for a fairer, safer, and more sustainable future for all.

  Anthony Burrowes, Social Value Manager, Sisk: “We are honoured to take on this role, considering that the construction sector has a vital responsibility in shaping a more sustainable future. As a company, we are committed to reducing environmental impact, supporting communities, creating inclusive workplaces and embedding responsible practices across our operations, supply chain and partnerships.”

  The Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien said: “The world faces huge challenges in achieving the SDGs, with only 18% of the goals currently on track globally. However, this year, as we mark the 70^th anniversary of Ireland’s membership of the United Nations, we are committed to achieving the vision and ambition of Agenda 2030, a roadmap for a fairer, safer, more prosperous, and sustainable world. In fulfilling the ambition of the SDGs, we have made considerable progress, but more is needed, and faster, from all stakeholders – locally, nationally and internationally.

  Over 90 organisations applied to take part in the Programme this year, demonstrating the continued commitment of Irish society to help achieve and promote the SDGs. Partnerships play a crucial role, and it is great to have such a diverse range of organisations working collectively towards a better future for everyone. The SDG Champions Programme recognises that everyone has a role to play, and everyone can contribute to achieving the SDGs.”

  Pictured above: Anthony Burrowes, Social Value Manager, Sisk and Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Transport, Climate, Environment, and Energy.

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January 21, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Government announces first call for projects for €1b Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund

  The Tánaiste Simon Harris TD and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, have announced the first call for projects for the Government’s new Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIIF).

  The Fund will allocate €1b over the next five years to boost the delivery of public infrastructure projects that will unlock housing sites in towns and cities across Ireland.

  The HIIF represents a major multi-annual commitment to unlocking serviced land at scale.  Administered by the new Housing Activation Office within the Department of Housing, it is the largest housing infrastructure fund announced in Ireland for many years.

  It will support the construction of the public infrastructure needed to activate thousands of homes across towns and cities, forming a central pillar of the Government’s new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities, and the target to deliver 300,000 new homes by 2030.

  Today’s first Call for projects is now open to Local Authorities and to the Land Development Agency (LDA).  This Call is focusing on shovel-ready projects that can move quickly.

  Launching the initiative, the Tánaiste said: “This €1 billion fund marks one of the most significant interventions in housing delivery in over a decade. Across the country, we see zoned land lying idle because the critical enabling infrastructure needed to support housing development is not in place.  This new €1b Fund will directly tackle this problem. By investing at scale now, we can accelerate home building and deliver the homes needed to meet the ambitious targets of our new Housing Action Plan.”

  Explaining today’s call out for suitable projects, Minister Browne added: “Today, we are making our first call out for suitable projects. This Call 1 is deliberately designed to focus on projects that can move quickly and at scale. We want strong, deliverable projects that can hit the ground running and start unblocking housing delivery immediately. The Local Authorities and the LDA have told me that they have shovel-ready options at the ready, today we are asking them to apply for funding for those projects.”

  The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is continuing to develop the Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund, and intend to broaden the approach in early 2026 to include a wider range of delivery approaches, and a broader range of public and private sector delivery partners.

  Minister Browne added: “While Call 1 is directly targeted at local authorities and the LDA, to get projects moving speedily, I want this fund to utilise all potential that exists. That is why I have written to industry representative groups today to seek the input of their members in relation to key opportunities to unlock barriers in towns and cities nationwide and on how the private sector can play a key role in doing this.  No opportunity will go unexplored and I hope to be in a position soon to make a second call for more projects.”

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• Irish Building Magazine Shannon Airport Achieves Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation

  The Shannon Airport Group has announced that Shannon Airport has achieved Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation, a globally recognised programme which independently assesses the efforts of airports to manage and reduce their carbon emissions.

  Since 2018, Shannon Airport has reduced its carbon emissions by 43%. Energy efficiency measures including LED lighting upgrades and Building Energy Management System (BEMS) improvements, electrification of airport vehicles, collaboration with airport partners and investment in renewable energy have played a central role in the Group’s comprehensive decarbonisation plan, and the achievement of Level 3 accreditation.

  These efforts were boosted in November 2025 with the launch of Ireland’s first on airfield solar PV farm at Shannon Airport. The 5.5-acre, 1.2-megawatt installation is expected to supply up to 20% of the airport’s annual electricity needs and plays a pivotal role in its long-term decarbonisation strategy.

  Commenting on the announcement today, Head of Sustainability at The Shannon Airport Group, Sinead Murphy said: “We are delighted to have achieved Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation. It reflects the hard work of my colleagues in the Sustainability team, as well as the dedication of everyone here at The Shannon Airport Group, and our partners, which underpins our sustainability strategy.

  “From electrifying our operations to generating renewable energy onsite, we are making real, measurable progress toward our long-term climate goals. This accreditation is evidence of the momentum building right across the organisation as we all work to create a more efficient and sustainable airport for the future.”

  Backed by a €30m sustainable investment plan between now and 2030, the airport will further improve energy efficiency and reduce its emissions through operational footprint consolidation, upgraded building insulation, and the adoption of advanced heating and cooling systems including heat pump technology.

  Today’s announcement follows a year of strong sustainability achievements for The Shannon Airport Group, having won the Chambers Ireland Biodiversity & Environment award, and secured ISO 50001 energy management certification.

  The Group has also advanced its circular economy goals by fitting out its new Operations Centre and two meeting rooms using 92% remanufactured furniture, recycled paint and second life carpet tiles. By extending the life of more than 70 items through high-quality remanufacturing, the project prevented 4.4 tonnes of carbon emissions, representing an 80% reduction in embodied carbon of the furniture fitout, while delivering a modern, comfortable workspace. All items can be remanufactured again in future, further preventing unnecessary waste.

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January 20, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Government approves upgrades to Limerick Waste Water Treatment Plant

  Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, has announced Government approval of the Preliminary Business Case for an upgraded Waste Water Treatment Plant and associated Bioresource Centre for Limerick City.

  The project represents a major investment of over €250M, making it one of the largest investments by Uisce Éireann in the mid-west.

  Limerick City’s existing Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) at Bunlicky has been serving Limerick since the early 2000’s. Uisce Éireann has identified the plant as a priority need for upgrade to facilitate the increasing population of the city and its environs.

  Minister Browne said: “As reflected in our new Housing Action Plan, ‘Delivering Homes, Building Communities’, infrastructure is key to meeting our ambitious housing targets.  The population of Limerick is projected to grow 50% by 2040, and the upgrade of  Bunlicky Wastewater Treatment Plant by Uisce Éireann will play a key role in facilitating the growth of the city and its environs, including the delivery of many more new homes in and around Limerick.

  “Under the revised National Development Plan, a record investment of €12.2 billion is being made in the water sector. The vast majority of this funding will be allocated to Uisce Éireann, to support the delivery of a wide range of projects in our cities and regions. This fantastic new infrastructure for Limerick is a perfect example of this and I look forward to seeing further such positive developments over the lifetime of the NDP.”

  Minister of State for Older People and Housing Kieran O’Donnell TD emphasised: “The Bunlicky Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade project represents a major investment in Limerick City, and the mid-west. A new, state-of-the art treatment plant will boost economic activity and employment during construction, and on completion, will provide capacity for further economic and industrial development together with the delivery of housing in Limerick and its environs, underpinning the future of the city as it grows. ”

  CEO of Uisce Éireann Niall Gleeson welcomed Government approval and outlined the next steps in this project: “We welcome the Cabinet’s decision to approve investment for this major upgrade of wastewater infrastructure in Limerick and the wider Mid West region. Delivery of this project will ensure the area is ready to grow and thrive over the next decade and beyond.

  “Uisce Éireann shares Government ambitions for new housing and is committed to doing its part through investment in strategic infrastructure developments such as this and delivering a modern, state of the art wastewater treatment plant that uses the best of today’s engineering, sustainability and innovative technologies. We have commenced engagement with local residents and stakeholders through information sessions as part of the non statutory consultation process and are now preparing our overall planning application which will be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála in the coming months.”

  Uisce Éireann will proceed to advance a Detailed Business Case and then a Final Business Case. The Final Business Case will include a full project cost, following planning approval and procurement processes. Uisce Éireann is preparing a planning application to be submitted in the coming months. Subject to statutory approvals being achieved without undue delays, construction is expected to commence in 2028.

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January 19, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Rowan announces senior and graduate appointments

  Rowan, a multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in environmental, sustainability and forensic engineering services, has announced details of a number of new appointments across its environmental and sustainability team, reflecting the company’s continued growth and expansion.

  Michelle O’Donnell has been appointed Environmental and Sustainability Director. Michelle brings over 15 years’ global leadership experience across scientific, government, regulatory, education and professional services sectors, with significant experience as an environmental consultant and director in both Australia and Ireland. A specialist in water quality, public health, and integrated water management, she will lead Rowan’s environmental team in supporting clients to achieve their organisational goals and meet regulatory requirements.

  Paola Rodolfi has joined Rowan as a Senior EIA Consultant. Paola has more than 12 years’ experience in environmental consultancy, with specific expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Appropriate Assessment (AA) screening, and the preparation of a wide range of environmental reports. Her skillset also includes climate risk and carbon assessments, as well as GIS analysis for environmental and climate change projects. Paola has extensive experience working on EIAs for wind and solar developments, flood relief schemes and wastewater treatment projects.

  Sam Tengwa has been appointed as Graduate Sustainability Consultant as part of  the Rowan UCD Graduate Development Programme. Sam has over ten years’ experience in water management and the circular economy, with key expertise in mine water management, water conservation, energy and decarbonisation assessments across scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, product life cycle assessments (LCA), process engineering, and circular economy strategies.

  Róisín O’Brien has been appointed Environmental Intern and is gaining experience across a broad range of environmental sectors within the business. Roisín is currently studying Climate and Environmental Sustainability at Dublin City University and is completing the internship as part of her third-year placement.

  Commenting on the appointments, Tom Rowan, founder and Managing Director of Rowan, said: “These appointments reflect Rowan’s continued growth and the increasing demand for our environmental and sustainability expertise. We are committed to investing in talented people at every stage of their careers, from senior leadership to graduate and intern level, while maintaining our vision of delivering excellence with a sense of humour.

  “Following these appointments, our team now represents five nationalities — Ireland, the UK, Italy, South Africa and the USA — and is 47% female, which reflects the diverse perspectives and expertise we believe are essential to delivering the best outcomes for our clients. This approach allows us to build a strong, collaborative team that delivers consistently high standards for our clients.”

  Rowan employs over 30 people and provides forensic, environmental and sustainability consultancy services to clients throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe. The growing company operates from offices in Trim, Co. Meath and Oranmore, Co. Galway.

  Rowan’s expert engineers and scientists work with a broad client base that includes leading insurance companies, local authorities, state bodies, loss adjusters and private companies across renewable energy, food and drink, construction, commercial and residential development, recycling and quarry industries.

  The company provides two specialist service offerings: forensic engineering, where its team investigates accidents involving personal injury, property damage, or environmental contamination/ spillages and provides expert technical evidence in court; and environmental consultancy, including EIA and environmental planning, licensing and compliance, sustainability and ESG, environmental due diligence and land contamination services, as well as drone surveying.

  Pictured above: Sam Tengwa, Róisín O’Brien, Paola Rodolfi, and Michelle O’Donnell.

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• DBFL Bill Bates on the AMPLIFIED Podcast
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• Irish Building Magazine ZeroOne appoints Stephen Byrne as COO

  ZeroOne, a specialist MEP consultancy dedicated exclusively to the data centre industry, has announced the appointment of Stephen Byrne as Chief Operating Officer (COO).

  This strategic move reinforces ZeroOne’s commitment to delivering world-class engineering and consultancy services for hyperscale and co-location data centre clients throughout EMEA.

  With 20 years of industry experience and over 1,500 MW of data centre projects designed, Stephen has worked extensively with hyperscalers, co-location providers, and general contractors. He has a proven track record of developing industry leading teams in the sector.

  His appointment as COO marks a significant milestone in ZeroOne’s growth trajectory. Stephen joins co-founders Conor McGinn (Chief Executive Officer) and Donal Dunlop (Chief Commercial Officer), who bring a unique blend of engineering expertise and business strategy to the company.

  McGinn, a fellow of ACEI and Chartered Engineer with Engineers Ireland, has held previous roles at Mercury Engineering, Kirby Group, and Ethos Engineering. His career spans the design and construction of complex facilities across pharmaceutical, healthcare, and data centre sectors. Dunlop, a fellow Chartered Accountant and recognised management consultant, brings extensive experience in commercial, strategy, finance and programme management, having worked across various sectors including construction, utilities, manufacturing, technology and mission critical.

  Speaking on his appointment, Stephen said: “I’m delighted to be joining ZeroOne at such a pivotal stage in its growth. The company has a clear vision and a strong technical foundation, and I look forward to working with Conor, Donal and the wider team to scale our MEP design and delivery capability. ZeroOne’s strategic focus on the data centre sector, combined with its commitment to engineering excellence, presents a unique opportunity to help clients deliver technically superior, resilient, future-ready infrastructure across EMEA.”

  “Stephen’s appointment as COO strengthens our leadership team and positions ZeroOne to set a new benchmark for excellence in the data centre industry. His proven track record and deep technical expertise will be instrumental as we scale and innovate in one of the fastest-growing sectors globally.” said Conor McGinn, CEO of ZeroOne.

  With a team of strategically sourced specialist capabilities, ZeroOne is primed for rapid growth and committed to shaping the future of data centre design, engineering, and delivery.

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January 16, 2026

• Rowan The Hidden Water in Textiles

  Rowan’s Thought Leadership- Kicking Off 2026: What Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Means for Textiles, Water & Risk Textiles carry a hidden water footprint that most organisations have never measured.   From fibre production and dyeing to washing, microplastics, and chemical release, everyday textiles affect water resources and water quality far beyond where garments are used.…

  The post The Hidden Water in Textiles first appeared on Rowan Engineering Consultants.

• Flame Stop Fire Upgrade Works: The Crucial Fix That Could Save Your Irish Building from Disaster

  Introduction: Why Fire Safety Regulations Matter More Than Ever

  Over the past five years, Ireland has made sweeping changes to its fire safety and building control regulations, specifically ensuring Passive Fire Protection. These updates, coming into full force by May 2025, are designed to address modern construction risks, safeguard vulnerable occupants, and improve the coordination of fire safety across all building types. Whether you’re an architect, developer, building owner, or facilities manager, understanding these changes is no longer optional—it’s essential.

  What Are the Latest Fire Safety Regulation Changes in Ireland?

  Ireland has introduced major updates to fire safety and building control regulations that take effect from 1 May 2025 and beyond, significantly strengthening fire safety standards in both residential and non-residential buildings.

  The most comprehensive changes in over a decade were published through the Building Regulations (Part B Amendment) Regulations 2024 and the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2025, aligning fire safety requirements with modern risk and safety expectations. (irishstatutebook.ie)

  What Is the Part B Amendment to Ireland’s Building Regulations?

  The Part B Amendment Regulations 2024 update fire safety provisions in the Building Regulations with stricter standards for fire prevention, internal spread, and access for fire services.

  These amendments, effective from 1 May 2025 (subject to transitional provisions), revise the fire safety sections of the Building Regulations to improve early warning, escape routes, and prevention of fire spread. They also include a new provision (B12) requiring building owners to receive information on active fire safety systems installed in their buildings.

  Key focus areas include:

  • Strengthened means of warning and escape requirements
  • Enhanced controls on internal fire spread, including concealed spaces
  • Revised external fire spread performance standards for walls and roofs
  • Improved access and facilities for fire services during emergencies
  • Mandatory provision of detailed fire safety system information to building owners

  How Have Fire Safety Certificate Requirements Changed?

  The Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2025 expand when Fire Safety Certificates are required, especially for material alterations and changes of use in storage and industrial buildings.

  Also effective from 1 May 2025, these regulations align the broader Building Control Regulations with the Part B update. Among the key changes:

  • A Fire Safety Certificate is now required for more types of material alteration, including subdividing or adding floor area to storage and industrial buildings.
  • A commencement notice must be lodged for material alterations even when a full Fire Safety Certificate isn’t immediately needed.

  These changes ensure fire safety is considered early in building modifications and not just at major project stages.

  What Is New in Smoke Detection and Fire Safety in Homes?

  Mandatory fire and smoke detection requirements have been enhanced, particularly for new dwellings and habitable rooms beyond traditional circulation spaces.

  Interconnected, mains-powered smoke and heat detectors are increasingly recognised as critical for early warning, particularly in:

  • Bedrooms and living rooms
  • Escape routes between habitable spaces
  • Dwelling units with multiple floors

  These changes aim to reduce fire fatalities by ensuring earlier detection and consistent alarm coverage throughout homes.

  Are There New Standards for Fire Safety Information and Handover?

  Yes — the amended Part B introduces provisions requiring sufficient fire safety information to be provided to building owners at completion of works.

  Known as B12 — Provision of Information, this addition mandates that contractors and designers supply details of active fire safety systems so building owners can operate and maintain them effectively.

  Providing clear information on fire alarms, emergency lighting, firestopping, and suppression systems is now considered essential for long-term safety, not just initial compliance.

  What Is the Impact on External Wall Fire Safety?

  Part B 2024 updates include stricter fire performance standards for external walls and facades to reduce the risk of fire spread across building exteriors.

  Though detailed test criteria are set out in full guidance documents, the emphasis is on using materials and designs that inhibit flame spread on building faces and between adjacent structures.

  This is particularly relevant following concerns about façade performance in fires internationally — Ireland is now adopting clearer regulatory expectations in this area.

  What About Compartment Sizes and Sprinklers?

  New rules reduce the maximum compartment size allowed for shops protected by sprinklers and introduce broader sprinkler requirements in certain residential contexts.

  Under the Part B update:

  • The upper limit for sprinkler-protected compartment sizes in shops has been halved, enhancing fire containment.
  • Sprinklers are required in multi-storey residential care facilities and potentially other buildings where high life safety stakes exist.

  These changes reflect a shift towards integrating passive and active fire protection strategies in modern Irish fire safety regulation.

  How Do These Changes Affect Architects, Developers and Property Owners?

  The regulatory changes increase design, documentation, and compliance responsibilities for anyone involved in building work.

  Professionals must now:

  • Align designs with updated Technical Guidance Document B 2024 standards
  • Account for expanded Fire Safety Certificate triggers in project planning
  • Document and hand over full fire safety systems information to building owners
  • Enhance smoke detection and alarm systems in residential and mixed-use buildings

  For property owners, this means retrofits or renovations may now require compliance with standards that didn’t previously apply, and ongoing maintenance records are likely to be scrutinised during inspections.

  When Do the New Fire Safety Rules Come Into Effect?

  The core updates from the Part B 2024 and Building Control 2025 Regulations take effect from 1 May 2025, with transitional arrangements extending into later years.

  Projects with planning permission, Fire Safety Certificates, or Part 8 notices before 30 April 2025 may be subject to transitional provisions, but new works must comply fully with the updated standards.

  These transitional arrangements help ensure a practical shift to the new regime, especially for large developments already underway.

  Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Your Project Fall Behind

  With the most significant fire safety regulatory changes in over a decade now on the books, Irish building professionals and property owners must act swiftly to understand and implement the new rules. Fire upgrade works, from firestopping and alarms to sprinklers and information management, are no longer optional in many contexts.

  Need expert support to navigate these new regulations?

  Contact Flame Stop today for a full assessment of your fire safety compliance. Our team of specialists can guide you through fire upgrade works, passive fire protection, and all documentation required under the latest legislation.

  Royalty free Image from PixaBay to support content Developed by 3R.

  The post Fire Upgrade Works: The Crucial Fix That Could Save Your Irish Building from Disaster appeared first on Flame Stop.

• Irish Building Magazine Ethos acquires 3DEC

  Ethos Engineering, a leader in sustainable data centre design across EMEA and backed by Exponent, has acquired 3DEC Ltd, a UK-based technology design consultancy providing services to data centres, commercial workplaces and educational environments.

  The transaction will bring 3DEC’s world-class expertise in ICT design services in-house at Ethos. These services are increasingly mission critical for digital infrastructure and cutting-edge workplaces. By acquiring 3DEC, Ethos will complement and build on its already strong client offering in this area.

  This is the second strategic acquisition Ethos has made since June of last year, following its partnership with leading private equity firm Exponent in March 2024. Over this period, Ethos has significantly grown revenue, expanded its team to 259 employees, opened offices in the UK and the Netherlands, as well as recently opening a new purpose-built HQ in Dublin. This transaction expands headcount further with the addition of 3DEC’s team, which encompasses over 40 engineers.

  Ethos will continue to explore strategic acquisition opportunities that broaden and enhance its service offering to clients.

  Ethos Engineering chief executive Greg Hayden said: “We know the team at 3DEC well and have worked with them on many projects over the last six years, integrating them into our team as an extension of our service offering. Throughout this time, it’s been very clear that we share a similar culture, focused on excellence and innovation for clients. Bringing their expertise in-house will help us to enhance our offering and accelerate the delivery of projects. Adding their team of more than 40 highly skilled engineers also highlights our long-term commitment to the UK market and our continued investment in local capability.”

  3DEC managing director Dylan Lewis said: “Ethos is a very successful and ambitious firm that has grown substantially over the last number of years. It is well-recognised across the industry for the excellence of its offering to clients, including a wide-range of blue-chip data centre customers. Our firms are a strong strategic fit for each other and by joining forces with Ethos, we will be able to develop faster than we would as a standalone business. We are grateful to our people and customers for their support of our business and look forward to a new era of growth and enhancement of our offering as part of the Ethos family.”

  Anthony Clegg, partner at Exponent, said: “This acquisition is an important milestone for Ethos as the company continues to accelerate growth, broaden its service offering and increase headcount. Ethos has significantly expanded its client base since our investment, having worked with an impressive roster of major hyperscale and co-location data centre providers across Europe.”

  The commercial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The 3DEC business will continue to operate under the 3DEC brand, led by managing director Dylan Lewis and the rest of the existing management team.

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  The post Ethos acquires 3DEC first appeared on Irish building magazine.

January 15, 2026

• DBFL DBFL 2025 Highlights Video
  The post DBFL 2025 Highlights Video appeared first on DBFL Consulting Engineers.

• Irish Building Magazine Ashview announces senior appointments

  Ashview Consultants, one of Ireland’s leading business risk management consultancies, has announced a series of senior leadership changes amid the company’s ongoing European expansion.

  Justyna Kluska and Tony Fox have been promoted to Senior Associate Director roles, Dylan Coughlan has been promoted to Associate Director, and Neil McKenna has been appointed Associate Director.

  In their new roles, all four will work closely with Ashview Consultants CEO Paul O’Shea and the wider senior management team to support the implementation of the company’s strategic vision, driving continuous improvement and delivering exceptional service to clients.

  With offices in Dublin, Newry and London, Ashview Consultants, which is celebrating 20 years in business this year, works with clients across the world to optimise their performance by identifying, assessing and mitigating risks that could impact their business operations or their workplace health and safety standards. This includes operational, financial, business, compliance and health and safety systems as well as industry-specific challenges. Client sectors include construction, aviation, transport, commercial, pharmaceutical, hospitality, retail, residential, logistics, data centres and student accommodation.

  Ashview Consultants has also taken a significant step forward in its growth journey with a strategic expansion into a number of European countries, marking a significant milestone in the company’s development. The business is now delivering a portfolio of projects across six European markets. This expansion is further strengthened by the business’s collaboration with a number of key clients and delivery partners who specialise in highly customised, build-to-suit data centres, reinforcing Ashview Consultants’ commitment to enhancing its European offering and extending the reach of its expertise across the region.

  Commenting on the appointments, Paul O’Shea, CEO of Ashview Consultants, says: “On behalf of myself and the wider team at Ashview Consultants, I am delighted to announce the strengthening of our senior management team with the promotion of Justyna, Tony and Dylan, alongside the appointment of Neil. Their expertise, leadership, and deep industry knowledge will be invaluable as we continue our European expansion, delivering exceptional service to clients across new and existing markets. These appointments reflect our commitment to investing in our people and ensuring we have the strongest possible team in place to drive innovation, maintain the highest standards of risk management, and support the long-term strategic growth of Ashview Consultants.

  Justyna Kluska has been promoted to Senior Associate Director following nearly a decade with Ashview Consultants. Justyna has successfully delivered over 350 projects across a number of sectors including civil works, residential, commercial, data centres, and breweries. She has extensive experience working on projects of significant scale, nature and complexity.

  As Senior Associate Director, Justyna will continue to foster a positive business risk and safety culture across Ashview Consultants’ portfolio and will lead Ashview Consultants’ Women Enterprise Network, promoting leadership through webinars, events, and collaborative initiatives.

  Justyna holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Health and Safety from the Communications Management Institute in Dublin. She also holds a Certificate in Construction Health and Safety and Leadership Excellence and is a Fellow of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM), a global professional body that recognises excellence, leadership, and best practice in risk, safety, and health management.

  Tony Fox has also been promoted to Senior Associate Director following a number of senior roles at Ashview Consultants including Senior Health and Safety Consultant and more recently, Associate Director. Tony specialises in early planning and design of project management, helping clients to identify, eliminate, and control foreseeable risks to their organisations. He also leads on a broad range of advisory and compliance projects including the rollout of Safe365, a digital health and safety cultural tool that helps businesses track, measure and improve their safety performance and compliance in real time.

  With almost three decades of experience in the construction and built environment industry, Tony started his career with a trade background before progressing into management and later specialising in health and safety.

  Tony holds a number of qualifications, covering areas such as construction, risk assessment, regulatory risk, and risk control. He was also a construction lecturer in South Eastern Regional College, Belfast.

  Dylan Coughlan has been promoted to Associate Director from his role as Senior Risk Consultant at Ashview Consultants where he plays a key part in the early review of design risks for each project, ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to mitigate risks during construction and for end users.

  Prior to joining Ashview Consultants in 2022, Dylan worked as a Health and Safety Officer with Sonica, an interior fit-out contractor, and with HML Construction, a leading construction company operating in Ireland and the UK. Dylan has extensive experience across key sectors, including commercial, residential, logistics, and data centre projects.

  Dylan holds a Master of Science in Environmental Health and Safety Management from South East Technological University, a Higher Diploma in Safety, Health and Welfare at Work from University College Dublin and a Certificate in Project Management and Entrepreneurship in the Built Environment from Griffith College. He also holds a number of professional Health and Safety certifications.

  Neil McKenna, who has been appointed Associate Director, has over two decades of experience in the construction and health and safety industry. Prior to joining Ashview Consultants, Neil served as Health and Safety Manager at Townmore Construction, where he managed and trained Senior Safety Advisors, Safety Officers, and Subcontractor Safety Officers across all construction projects.

  Neil also worked on design-and-build warehouse projects for high-profile clients during his time as Senior Environmental Health and Safety Manager at Park Developments, including Northwest Logistics Park and North West Business Park. He spent almost a decade as Senior Environmental Health and Safety Advisor / Manager at Balfour Beatty Ireland, working on projects such as the refurbishment of runway 16/34 at Dublin Airport, construction and fit out of student accommodation buildings at Gloucester Place, Dublin and the redevelopment of primary healthcare centres across Dublin city and county.

  Neil is a Chartered Member of IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) and holds a Level 5 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice (City and Guilds), a Diploma of Higher Education in Business Supervisory Management from IBAT College, and a Certificate of Higher Education in Health and Safety Practice from NIFAST, Dublin. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Trinity College Dublin.

  Celebrating 20 years in business this year, Ashview Consultants is a 100% Irish owned and fully independent company. The team of 30 professionals combine deep sectoral expertise with innovative technology to provide practical and proactive solutions to clients that enhance operational, financial, business, compliance and health and safety systems or address industry-specific challenges.

  Ashview Consultants’ professional staff are third-party accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM), and the Association for Project Safety (APS). Ashview Consultants also holds the following ISO accreditations: ISO 9001 – Quality Management System, ISO 14001 – Environmental Management System and ISO 45001 – Occupational Health & Safety Management System.

  Pictured above: (Clockwise) Justyna Kluska, Dylan Coughlan, Neil McKenna, and Tony Fox.

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  The post Ashview announces senior appointments first appeared on Irish building magazine.

January 14, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Sisk to redevelop Meath GAA Páirc Tailteann stand

  Sisk and Meath GAA have announced that a €21m contract has been signed for the redevelopment of the stand at Páirc Tailteann.

  The signing represents an important milestone in delivering enhanced facilities for players, members, supporters, and the wider community.

  The agreement was formalised on Saturday, January 10 at Páirc Tailteann in Navan, County Meath, with invited representatives from the GAA, local public officials, and key stakeholders in attendance.

  The stand redevelopment is a central element of the ongoing improvement programme at Páirc Tailteann, designed to ensure the venue continues to meet modern expectations for safety, accessibility, supporter experience, and community use.

  Shane Glynn, Regional Director, Sisk, said: “Sisk is proud to be delivering the redevelopment of the stand at Páirc Tailteann. Having completed the redevelopment of Croke Park over 25 years ago and more recently Páirc Uí Chaoimh, we recognise the cultural significance of the stadium to the local community and the benefits that the redevelopment will have for future generations to come. We look forward to beginning works on site with our local supply chain partners and delivering the stand to highest possible standards.”

  Jason Plunkett, Meath GAA County Chairperson, said: “Today is a landmark day for Meath GAA and for everyone who has Páirc Tailteann in their hearts. The contract signing moves this project from planning into delivery, and it reflects years of commitment from volunteers, supporters, and our partners who have worked steadily to bring the redevelopment to this point. This new stand will enhance safety, accessibility and the overall matchday experience, while protecting Páirc Tailteann’s status as the home of Meath GAA for generations to come. We look forward to seeing works commence and to sharing further milestones with the wider Meath community as the project progresses.”

  Pictured above: Jason Plunkett, Chairman, Meath GAA, Noel Dempsey, Páirc Tailteann CLG and Shane Glynn, Regional Director, Sisk.

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  The post Sisk to redevelop Meath GAA Páirc Tailteann stand first appeared on Irish building magazine.

• Cleere Project Office How Small Businesses Can Fund Their First Sustainability Project
  If you run a small business in Ireland, you’ve probably thought about cutting energy costs, reducing waste or improving how your business operates. But one question always comes first: “How do I pay for it?” For many SMEs, sustainability sounds like another cost. Energy bills are high, margins are tight, and investing in upgrades can […]

January 13, 2026

• MIDAS Ireland Government Approves Major Expansion of Tyndall National Institute
  • From: Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
  • Published on: 13 January 2026

  

  Dr Denis Doyle, Board Chair, Tyndall, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, Professor William Scanlon, CEO, Tyndall, and Professor John O’Halloran, President, UCC

  Minister James Lawless says investment will drive Ireland’s leadership in semiconductor research and accelerate ambitions to become a ‘Silicon Ireland’

  The Government today approved a major expansion of Tyndall National Institute, marking a decisive step in advancing Ireland’s ambition to lead globally in semiconductor research, innovation and advanced manufacturing. The Tyndall expansion is also the first major project to be delivered under Minister Lawless’ landmark research infrastructure and talent investment programme, INSPIRE.

  Announcing the decision, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, whose department is leading this critical project, said:

  “Today’s decision marks a milestone for Ireland’s tech future. This investment of over €100 million under the National Development Plan will significantly strengthen Ireland’s global position in cutting‑edge semiconductor research and innovation, and it will be central to driving forward our ambition to become a true Silicon Ireland.

  “This expansion will reinforce Tyndall’s role as a vital bridge between world‑leading research and a dynamic, fast‑growing semiconductor industry. It will support breakthroughs in AI, quantum technologies and next‑generation computing – delivering economic growth, creating high‑skilled jobs and advancing Ireland’s wider knowledge‑economy ambitions.”

  The Minister went on to say:

  “This project is a powerful example of collaboration between Government, UCC and Tyndall. It is a key component of the third pillar of the INSPIRE programme – our major national investment in research infrastructure and talent – which I launched with the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation in November 2025.”

  Minister for Enterprise Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD added:

  “I am delighted to support the expansion of Tyndall National Institute, a key element of our national semiconductor infrastructure.

  “Tyndall’s expansion is one of the key objectives of Silicon Island: Ireland’s National Semiconductor Strategy, namely to build on our strong semiconductor ecosystem. Tyndall already contributes enormously to Ireland’s RDI and competitiveness in the semiconductor sector, a strategically important sector for Ireland and the EU.

  “This expansion is a major step in further realising our ambitions to strengthen our research capacity, promoting a robust national talent pipeline and industry partnerships in the semiconductor sector. It will help cement Ireland as a global research and innovation leader across the semiconductor value chain and in the application of semiconductors in the green and digital transitions.”

  The expansion programme will double the physical size and footprint of TNI, with today’s decision paving the way for a joint funding mechanism between the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and University College Cork allowing the project to progress under the relevant capital development governance structures within UCC.

  In welcoming the decision, Professor John O’Halloran, President of University College Cork, said:

  “As one of Ireland’s leading research-intensive institutions, Quantum and Photonics forms a key pillar of UCC’s ambitious Futures strategy. This investment today in Tyndall aligns with this vision and allows us to attract global talent who will develop the next generation of semiconductor technology, driving economic growth within a world-class facility. We are deeply appreciative of this support and endorsement of our plans for the future.”

  The expansion project will be delivered over a three-year period, representing a significant investment in research infrastructure under the National Development Plan.

  Tyndall CEO, Professor William Scanlon, highlighted that:

  “The Government’s support for the Tyndall North Mall Expansion is transformative for Ireland’s research and innovation ecosystem. It is an instrumental step in realising Ireland’s ambition under ‘Silicon Island’ the National Semiconductor Strategy. This new world-class research facility will enable Tyndall’s growth for the future and deliver greater economic impact, an expanded talent pipeline, and strengthen Europe’s strategic resilience in this critical sector.”

  The project will

  • Strengthen Ireland’s national research infrastructure in semiconductors and related technologies
  • Support balanced regional growth by expanding research capacity and capability
  • Increase research impact, enterprise engagement and international competitiveness
  • Underpin industrial development in key enabling technologies that drive advances in computing, artificial intelligence and communications – linchpins of the knowledge economy.

  The post Government Approves Major Expansion of Tyndall National Institute appeared first on MIDAS Ireland.

January 12, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine ASSA ABLOY Door Group highlights TEMPEST doorset benefits to safeguard data centres

  ASSA ABLOY Door Group is highlighting the benefits of its highly advanced TEMPEST security door for safeguarding data centres, as it is engineered to protect against both physical intrusion with RC4 burglary resistance, and electromagnetic data leakage.

  As data centres become one of the world’s fastest growing critical infrastructure verticals, protecting information is no longer limited to cyber security alone. Electromagnetic emanation, where sensitive data can be intercepted from electronic emissions, poses a growing risk in the industry.

  Designed for use in high-risk and high-value environments like data centres, secure server rooms, critical national infrastructure and other classified facilities, the TEMPEST door provides electromagnetic shielding and high physical security performance.

  Tested to IEEE Std 299-2006, the door delivers shielding effectiveness ranging from 44.7 dB to 121.4 dB across frequencies from 30 MHz to 5 GHz, helping to prevent RF and EM signal leakage that could otherwise be exploited for unauthorised surveillance or data extraction.

  TEMPEST offers high RC4 burglary resistance, combining reinforced steel construction, anti-burglary bolts and high-class locking systems providing a robust barrier against physical attacks. The doorset has also been engineered for integration into Faraday cages, SCIFs and secure RF rooms, ensuring a complete approach to both cyber and physical security.

  The TEMPEST doorset has customisable sizes and finishes, which aligns security performance with architectural design and operational needs that are common in modern data developments.

  Brian Sofley, Managing Director at ASSA ABLOY Door Group, said: “Critical infrastructure is always evolving, and the TEMPEST door has been developed to meet the growing need for solutions that don’t just protect access, but information itself.

  “By addressing both electromagnetic and physical security risks, it will help the facilities managers of data centre and other high-risk environments meet compliance standards and safeguard their premises, assets and information.”

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  The post ASSA ABLOY Door Group highlights TEMPEST doorset benefits to safeguard data centres first appeared on Irish building magazine.

January 09, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Glass Bottle site secures new long-term financing

  Pembroke Beach DAC, the joint-venture behind Dublin’s transformative Glass Bottle site, announces a major milestone in its development journey with the completion of a new financing facility with Deutsche Bank to replace the existing construction financing consortium.

  This strategic refinancing of €415 million underscores the attractiveness of the Dublin residential market from an investment perspective, given its significant undersupply and the positive momentum inspired by recent market regulatory reforms. Funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. (“Oaktree”), along with their joint venture partners Lioncor and Ronan Group Real Estate (“RGRE”), are continuing with their plan to deliver approximately 4,000 residential units in the centre of Dublin.

  The new financing package, arranged and underwritten by Deutsche Bank, provides Pembroke Beach DAC with a robust capital structure to support the next phase of the Glass Bottle project as it delivers much needed new supply to the Dublin market. The facility provides stabilised financing for the residential phases now being completed and leased and facilitates progression to the next phases of the residential development programme.

  This new investment kickstarts an exciting new stage of development following a series of topping out milestones across the first phase of residential development in 2024 and 2025. In November 2025, Glass Bottle’s first residential building, Lime House, consisting of 212 homes achieved practical completion and welcomed the very first tenants to the site in the same month. Construction on the remaining phases of the development is continuing at pace with the next 180 homes (Glass House) being delivered in Q1 of this year, with another two buildings (Sand House & Batch House) delivering a further 495 homes by Q3 2026.

  Lioncor’s CEO, Marcus Ryan, comments: “Glass Bottle stands as one of the most ambitious and impressive development projects ever undertaken in Dublin, and we are incredibly proud of the success the team has achieved to date. The addition of Deutsche Bank as a new financing partner alongside Oaktree and Ronan Group bolsters our long-term growth strategy as joint developers and represents a positive endorsement of both the strength of market opportunity for new capital projects in Dublin and our team’s proven ability to deliver at scale.”

  In total Glass Bottle will deliver almost 900 new homes in Dublin city across the first four residential buildings, each with its own best-in-class indoor and outdoor amenity spaces. Adding to this significant housing delivery for the city, the next residential phase of Glass Bottle will consist of an additional 586 homes with commencement set for the first half of 2026.

  Glass Bottle, Dublin 4 is a transformative mixed-use development set to deliver approximately 4,000 new homes and over 1 million sq.ft. of commercial, technology, healthcare and hospitality space upon completion. The regeneration project will convert approximately 15 hectares of industrial land into an integrated and vibrant new community on the shores of Dublin Bay.

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  The post Glass Bottle site secures new long-term financing first appeared on Irish building magazine.

• ORS ORS acquires leading commercial property advisory TWM

  ORS is delighted to announce that it has acquired TWM, the Dublin-based commercial property advisory business, further strengthening its position as Ireland’s leading multidisciplinary building consultancy with sustainable growth plans across Ireland, the UK and Europe.

  ORS has a proven track record of delivering innovative build solutions across various industries. It offers a comprehensive range of services that encompass civil and structural engineering, project management, infrastructure, health and safety, building surveying, assigned certifier, fire safety, environmental, sustainability and mechanical and electrical services.

  TWM was founded in 2010 by Sean O’Neill and was later co-owned with Michele Jackson, who joined the business in 2014. In 2024, Willie Norse joined TWM as Managing Director, having moved from an executive role at CBRE. He leads a team of experienced, well-respected professionals with significant expertise in commercial real estate. The business currently focuses on Commercial Agency, Professional Services and Strategic Advice, with ambitious growth plans to expand into additional sectors nationwide. TWM will retain its own brand, identity, and management following the deal, within the wider ORS Group.

  This acquisition, supported by ORS investment partners, Erisbeg, forms part of ORS’s ongoing growth strategy, following a number of successful integrations in recent years, including John Spain Associates, a Dublin-based Planning Consultancy, and, most recently McGovern Surveyors, a Dublin-based Building Surveying firm, which have strengthened the Group’s multidisciplinary expertise nationwide.

  John Brennan, Managing Director at ORS, said “This acquisition further strengthens our ability to support clients across the full property lifecycle. By combining strategic property advisory with ORS’s multidisciplinary engineering and compliance expertise, we can offer more integrated, commercially informed support from early strategy through to delivery.”

  Willie Norse said they are looking forward to leveraging the clear synergies between TWM and the ORS group of companies. “We will now be able to offer a wider suite of services to our clients and engage with more clients for our existing services.  We believe this announcement, coupled with our ambitious growth plans, will prove attractive to high-quality property professionals looking to advance their careers.”

  Going forward, ORS and TWM, as part of the ORS Group, are committed to delivering high-quality services to their existing clients. This acquisition reaffirms ORS’s dedication to fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and cementing its position as a leader in the building consultancy industry.

  Pictured: From left: Seán O’Neill, Director, TWM; Tom Gilligan, Financial Director, ORS; Olivia Cuddihy, Group Integrations Lead, ORS; Darren Holmes, Director, ORS; Michele Jackson, Director, TWM; John Brennan, Managing Director, ORS; Willie Norse, Managing Director, TWM.
  Credits: Photographer: Conor English, Studio Great; Location: The Johnstown Estate

  The post ORS acquires leading commercial property advisory TWM first appeared on ORS.

• Irish Electric Vehicle Association 2025 Charging Infrastructure Full Year Review
  

  It's January 2026, time to see how charging infrastructure's developed over the course of 2025.

  

January 08, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Chadwicks appoints Eimear O’Reilly as HR Director

  Chadwicks Group, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchanting company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Eimear O’Reilly as HR Director of Chadwicks Group.

  As HR Director for Chadwicks Group, and as a member of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team, Eimear will lead the company’s people strategy.

  In the role, Eimear will shape and deliver a forward-looking strategy that supports the company’s ongoing transformation and growth ambitions. She will lead initiatives to enhance the employee experience, strengthen talent pipelines and build organisational capability, ensuring Chadwicks Group is equipped to meet the evolving needs of its colleagues, customers and wider market.

  Speaking on her appointment, Eimear O’Reilly, HR Director, Chadwicks Group, commented: “I am delighted to be joining Chadwicks Group at such an important stage in its growth journey. Chadwicks’ strong reputation, values-driven culture and commitment to developing colleagues aligns closely with my professional principles and experience. I am excited to contribute to the next chapter of Chadwick Group’s success.”

  Eimear brings over 20 years of extensive experience in Human Resources, organisational development and people strategy across a wide range of sectors, including financial services, insurance and mobile technology. Her career spans leadership roles with well-known brands such as Allianz Ireland Insurance, Bank of Scotland, AIB, Meteor Mobile and Vodafone, as well as senior positions in global operational and engineering environments.

  Most recently, Eimear served as HR Director with Allied Universal, following a successful five-and-a-half-year tenure with Hilti Fastening Systems. Throughout her career, she has delivered significant achievements in organisational development, talent management, employee engagement and change leadership. She is also a qualified business coach, an experienced mediator, and currently serves as a Director of Positive2Work Skillnet Ireland, contributing to national workforce development initiatives.

  Speaking on the appointment, Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Eimear to the Senior Leadership Team at Chadwicks Group. Her deep experience across HR, organisational development and people management will play a crucial role as we continue to invest in our colleagues and shape the future of the business. Eimear’s strategic insight and strong focus on developing high-performing teams align closely with our ambition to deliver an exceptional customer experience and support our growth plans across Ireland.”

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• Irish Building Magazine LDA and IDA agree transfer of Cork site with potential for 1,000 homes

  The Land Development Agency (LDA) and IDA Ireland have reached an agreement on the transfer of a 41-hectare site at Kilbarry in Cork City, which has the potential to deliver approximately 1,000 homes.

  The land being transferred by IDA Ireland to the LDA forms part of the North Blackpool-Kilbarry Expansion Area, one of the key locations identified to accommodate the growth requirements of Cork City to 2040.

  This greenfield site has historically been earmarked for industrial use by IDA Ireland, in line with its core function to enable and deliver property solutions which support balanced regional development for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and indigenous clients of Enterprise Ireland. However, following a review as part of the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028, the site is now zoned for residential use, public open space and has been identified for long-term strategic development. IDA Ireland facilitated the LDA in identifying the Kilbarry North land as a suitable location for housing development which will complement IDA Ireland’s development lands to the south.

  The site lies to the north of Kilbarry Enterprise Park and adjoins Delany Rovers GAA Club. Blackpool Village and Blackpool Shopping Centre are located less than 2km away.

  The LDA has already appointed a design team for the project and intends to undertake a comprehensive public consultation process on emerging proposals, prior to submitting any planning application.

  The proposals will also be informed by the emerging Framework Plan for the area that Cork City Council is preparing. The new homes will benefit from planned transformational infrastructure projects including the Cork Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Route, which will traverse the site and Blackpool-Kilbarry Rail Station further to the south, off Dublin Hill.

  The plans will include a range of housing tenures, alongside a mix of other uses and public open space. Subject to the emerging Framework Plan, a planning application is targeted for 2027.

  The planned development of the site will add to the LDA’s ongoing activity in Cork. The Agency is already in the process of delivering 267 homes at the former St Kevin’s Hospital site in Shanakiel in Cork City and is developing 302 cost rental apartments at Horgan’s Quay in partnership with BAM and Clarendon Properties.  The LDA recently received planning permission for 345 homes on former ESB lands in Wilton and lodged a planning application for a further 147 new homes at Anglesea Terrace in Cork City Centre as part of a partnership with Cork City Council.

  Taoiseach Micheál Martin T.D. said: “Delivering 1,000 new homes in Cork City is a significant step forward. It will provide families and individuals with the opportunity to live in modern, sustainable communities close to jobs, schools, and amenities. This will ease housing pressures, support local economic growth and enhance quality of life for people across our city.

  “Addressing Ireland’s housing challenges requires a whole-of-State approach, every agency and stakeholder must work together to ensure everyone has access to a home. So, I commend the collaborative approach taken by the IDA and LDA in reaching this agreement. Their commitment to working together on the transfer of the 41-hectare Kilbarry site is a powerful example of how partnership can drive progress.”

  Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, T.D. commented: “This is a hugely positive development and another example of the progress we are making on the delivery of housing throughout the country. The Government has provided significant levels of funding to the LDA, so it is in a position to secure and speedily develop large-scale housing projects on sites such as this. We have also ensured state bodies are aware of the need to transfer state-owned land to the LDA and we have supported the Agency in securing a series of sites that are now being advanced for housing.

  “In addition to investing in housing, the Government has also committed record levels of funding to infrastructure development and to the provision of utilities to ensure sites, such as this one in Kilbarry, are ready for the development of housing. I would like to thank IDA Ireland for working with the LDA on the transfer of this land and I look forward to construction getting underway in the future, subject to planning.”

  Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, T.D. added: “I welcome the collaboration between the Land Development Agency and IDA Ireland on the transfer of the Kilbarry site in Cork City. This significant step will support the delivery of around 1,000 new homes in a key strategic location for the city’s growth. It demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring balanced regional development and meeting the housing needs of our communities, while making the most of valuable public lands for the benefit of Cork’s future.”

  John Coleman, Chief Executive of the LDA said: “This transfer of State-owned land to the LDA is a significant development for the Agency, for Cork and for the country’s urgent housing need. We have secured a well-located 41-hectare site with the potential for 1,000 homes in an area that has been designated for growth and is set to benefit further from major infrastructure projects. We have already appointed a design team to develop proposals that will include public open space, as well as new amenities. We intend to consult extensively with stakeholders and the public before submitting a planning application, which we are aiming to have completed by 2027. I would like to thank IDA Ireland for working with us on this land transfer. The LDA relies on state bodies to facilitate the transfer of state-owned sites and by engaging with us, agencies like IDA Ireland, are making a significant contribution to ensuring a steady and reliable supply of much-needed new housing and to the LDA’s mission of creating sustainable and thriving new communities.”

  He added: “The LDA has now secured a number of state-owned sites in Cork for housing including the former St Kevin’s Hospital in Shanakiel and land transferred by the ESB in Wilton. We are also advancing similar sites across the country such as Barracksfield West in Naas in Kildare, which was transferred by the Housing Agency, a site in Kinsealy in Dublin, transferred by Teagasc, another in Leopardstown in Dublin 18 transferred by Horse Racing Ireland, and sites in Celbridge in Kildare and in Lissenhall in north Dublin, transferred to the LDA by Nama.”

  Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland said: “We are pleased to have supported the transfer of this site in Kilbarry to the LDA and we are delighted that its potential for housing can now be advanced. The site has been zoned for residential use and has been identified for long-term strategic development. It is also due to be served by key infrastructure projects, so there is a compelling case for it to be used for housing. I want to acknowledge the positive engagement between IDA and LDA in bringing this project to fruition and we look forward to future collaboration as IDA Ireland continues to promote the South West region as a location for economic investment in line with our objective for balanced regional development.”

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January 07, 2026

• DBFL Danny Pio Murphy on the AMPLIFIED Podcast
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• Irish Building Magazine Elliott Group Launches Dedicated Mission Critical Division,

  Elliott Group, a leading construction company operating in Ireland and the UK, has announced the formal launch of its dedicated Mission Critical Division, marking a significant strategic milestone as the business continues to expand its presence in the data centre, energy and mission critical infrastructure sectors.

  The new division consolidates Elliott Group’s extensive live project experience in mission critical delivery and is led by a strengthened senior leadership team with the appointment of Willie Loughnane as Construction Director, Simon Clarke as MEP Director, and Ben Shepherd as Technical Director. Together, they will head a highly experienced, multidisciplinary team currently delivering major mission critical projects across Dublin, with the capability and capacity to support continued growth across both Ireland and the UK.

  Elliott Group has been active in the mission critical sector for many years, delivering complex, large-scale facilities for global operators. The formal establishment of the Mission Critical Division shows both the scale of the Group’s existing portfolio and increasing market demand for contractors with proven technical depth, safety performance and delivery certainty.

  Willie Loughnane, brings over two decades of experience delivering large-scale data centre and energy infrastructure projects, including hyperscale and campus developments exceeding 375MW of IT capacity, alongside more than 400MW of power generation and energy infrastructure, incorporating major generation plants and extensive 110kV substation and grid interface works. His background in fast-track delivery, EPC governance and multidisciplinary coordination reinforces Elliott Group’s ability to deliver certainty on programme, cost and quality in highly regulated environments.

  Ben Shepherd adds significant preconstruction and design leadership expertise, having shaped the early technical strategy for multiple hyperscale data centre campuses and high-voltage energy projects across Ireland, the UK and Europe. His experience spans early contractor engagement, PCSA delivery models, HV infrastructure, modularisation and cross-border regulatory compliance, ensuring complex mission critical projects are robustly defined, de-risked and positioned for successful delivery from the earliest stages.

  Simon Clarke completes the leadership team with more than 20 years of experience leading the delivery of mission critical MEP systems for data centre and energy projects exceeding 375MW, alongside major power generation and 110kV/MV substation programmes across Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. With a strong electrical engineering background and deep expertise in commissioning, operational readiness and live-environment delivery, Simon provides critical oversight of the systems that sit at the core of mission critical assets.

  Commenting on the launch, Darragh Elliott, CEO (ROI) and Noel Elliott, CEO (UK), Elliott Group, said: “Mission critical construction demands absolute clarity, technical depth and a relentless focus on safety and programme certainty. While we have been delivering in this space for many years, the formation of a dedicated Mission Critical Division led by Willie, Simon and Ben reflects both the scale of our current workload and our long-term commitment to the sector. Their combined expertise significantly strengthens an already highly capable team and positions Elliott Group to support the next phase of growth for our clients across Ireland and the UK.”

  The Mission Critical Division is supported by Elliott Group’s wider organisational strength, including in-house preconstruction, BIM Level 2 certified digital delivery, procurement, HSEQ and commissioning expertise, alongside a dedicated Aftercare team providing structured post-handover support. Backed by nearly a century of construction heritage, this integrated approach enables Elliott Group to manage the full lifecycle of complex mission critical projects, from early technical strategy and risk management through to construction, commissioning and ongoing operational support.

  With multiple live mission critical projects underway in Dublin, Elliott Group’s new division provides clients with a dedicated, sector focused team built around experience, leadership and quality.

  Pictured above: Willie Loughnane, Ben Shepherd and Simon Clarke.

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January 06, 2026

• Irish Building Magazine Daikin Ireland appoints new General Manager

  Daikin, a global HVACR leader, has announced the appointment of Kyrian Opstaele as the new General Manager of Daikin Ireland.

  Kyrian, who has more than 20 years of experience with Daikin, has been promoted from deputy General Manager to take over the running of the company’s Irish office.

  Kyrian takes over as General Manager of Daikin Ireland from Michael Sheehan, who has been with the company for more than a decade including the past seven years as General Manager. Mr Sheehan has announced his retirement, having led Daikin Ireland through its current strong phase of growth.

  “I am proud to have been appointed General Manager of Daikin Ireland at this strategically important time for the company and the wider energy sector here in Ireland,” said Kyrian.

  “We are at a crucial moment in the further deployment of heat pumps and other products that allow Irish homeowners, businesses and sectors of industry to reduce their carbon footprint by becoming more energy efficient,” Kyrian said. “At Daikin, our aim is to lead that transition by providing the highest-quality HVACR equipment that meets the needs of all our customers.

  “I would like to acknowledge Michael Sheehan’s outstanding contribution to Daikin Ireland over the past 10 years,” Kyrian said. “He leaves the company in great shape, and we are immensely grateful to him. Together with the management team, I’m looking forward to building further on this, strengthening the identity of Daikin in Ireland.”

  Originally from Ghent in Belgium, Kyrian holds an MBA from Ghent University and joined Daikin Ireland as deputy General Manager in summer 2025, having spent the previous five years with Daikin Europe where he was Manager of Distributor Markets. Prior to that, he spent more than 14 years in a variety of positions with Daikin across different markets including Europe and the Middle East.

  Daikin is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of energy-efficient heat pumps and environmentally friendly HVACR solutions. The company is at the forefront of Ireland’s transition to renewable energy, manufacturing heat pumps, air-conditioning systems and other HVACR equipment for installation across the residential, commercial and industrial sectors.

  Daikin opened its Irish headquarters in Citywest, Dublin, in 2005, and in 2025 opened a new office in Little Island, Cork.

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December 23, 2025

• Rowan Merry Christmas

  From Tom and all the team.

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• DBFL LauraLynn Christmas Jumper Day
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• Irish Electric Vehicle Association ESB ecars Frascati Centre Launch
  

  ESB ecars latest 8 vehicle high power charging hub, located at the Frascati Centre in Blackrock, Co. Dublin is now live.

  

December 22, 2025

• DBFL Supporting Local Communities
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• Irish Building Magazine PRSAs – A Flexible Retirement Planning Tool for Directors and Sole Traders

  Retirement planning in Ireland continues to evolve, and the Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) remains one of the most versatile tools available for business owners and the self-employed. With Darragh Hogan, Financial Advisor, Milestone Advisory.

  With recent legislative updates and the introduction of auto-enrolment for employees on the horizon, it is timely to highlight how PRSAs can be particularly beneficial for company directors and sole traders.

  PRSAs for Company Directors

  One of the most attractive features of a PRSA is the ability for a company to contribute up to 100% of a director’s salary in a given year. Unlike traditional occupational pension schemes or master trusts, which are often constrained by maximum funding rules tied to service and salary, the PRSA offers far greater flexibility.

  This means directors who may have joined a company later in their career – and therefore have limited pensionable service – can make significant, tax-efficient contributions through their company into a PRSA. In practice, this allows directors to accelerate their retirement funding and maximise the use of company profits in a highly tax-efficient way.

  PRSAs for Sole Traders

  For sole traders, the PRSA remains the primary pension vehicle available. Contributions are made personally and benefit from income tax relief at the individual’s marginal rate, subject to Revenue limits.

  This is especially important because sole traders will not be included in the State’s upcoming auto-enrolment pension scheme, which is being designed for employees. Sole traders must therefore take responsibility for their own retirement provision – and the PRSA provides a straightforward, flexible solution.

  By contributing regularly to a PRSA, sole traders can:

  • Reduce their income tax liability
  • Build up a retirement fund over time
  • Retain flexibility to vary or pause contributions depending on business cash flow

  Why PRSAs Matter

  The PRSA combines flexibility, portability, and tax efficiency, making it a valuable option for:

  • Directors seeking to fund pensions beyond occupational scheme limits.
  • Sole traders planning for retirement.

  At Milestone Advisory, we help clients assess the best use of PRSAs in line with their circumstances, ensuring that contributions are structured tax-efficiently and invested in line with their risk profile and long-term objectives.

  Final Thoughts

  Whether you are a company director with limited service in an occupational scheme or a sole trader excluded from auto-enrolment, the PRSA remains a cornerstone of retirement planning. By making the most of its unique contribution rules and tax advantages, you can take control of your retirement future.

  For more information, contact Darragh Hogan at Milestone Advisory: darragh@milestoneadvisory.ie

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December 21, 2025

• Irish Building Magazine Turner & Townsend appointed to TII’s commercial services framework

  Global professional services company, Turner & Townsend, has been appointed to Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s (TII) four-year framework for commercial services, supporting the development and operation of national road, greenway, active travel and light rail infrastructure across Ireland.

  The appointment marks a re-selection to the multi-party framework, reinforcing Turner & Townsend’s longstanding partnership with TII enabling continued support on some of the country’s most generationally important transport programmes. The company currently supports the delivery of a portfolio of projects for TII involving existing Luas lines, new and proposed Luas lines, and the Luas Operations and Maintenance framework, ensuring the continued reliability and performance of Dublin’s light rail system.

  Under the new framework, Turner & Townsend is positioned to provide a wide range of services including commercial and contract management, quantity surveying, procurement assurance, client representation, programme management, claims advisory, expert witness services, and risk and value management. This breadth of expertise will support both TII and Ireland’s 31 local authorities as they progress critical transport investments nationwide.

  Ireland’s transport agencies are preparing for a decade of accelerated delivery, driven by the National Development Plan, climate targets, and growing demand for sustainable mobility. The framework appointment positions Turner & Townsend to contribute specialist commercial and programme capability across road upgrades, active travel schemes, strategic greenways and the expansion of light rail infrastructure.

  John Robinson, Director – Infrastructure, Turner & Townsend in Ireland, said: “We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Transport Infrastructure Ireland on this strategic national framework. Ireland’s transport network is undergoing significant modernisation, and TII plays a central role in shaping and delivering the infrastructure that connects communities, supports economic growth and advances the country’s climate commitments.

  “Our multidisciplinary team is ready to support the next phase of projects with robust commercial management, programme oversight and assurance to help drive efficient and sustainable delivery.”

  This reappointment provides Turner & Townsend with the platform to continue to provide commercial oversight and programme support for TII, helping to drive efficient delivery and value for money across Ireland’s transport investment pipeline.

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December 20, 2025

• Irish Building Magazine Will Rudd strengthens Irish leadership team

  Will Rudd, an award-winning civil, structural and conservation engineering practice, has announced senior promotions and new appointments at its Dublin base, marking a major milestone in the company’s Irish expansion.

  The company has confirmed senior promotions within its Dublin office, with Shane McGowan promoted to Director, leading the Irish business, and Eugene Sheehy advancing to Associate.

  Mark Caffrey has joined as Structural Project Engineer, while Andrea Olay has been appointed Civil Technician.

  Collectively, these appointments represent a significant investment in leadership, talent development and geographic reach, reflecting Will Rudd’s strong workload across multiple sectors, including commercial development, healthcare, residential, heritage, energy and infrastructure.

  MJ O’Shaughnessy, Managing Director for Will Rudd Glasgow, Ireland, Inverness and London, said: “These promotions and appointments reflect a hugely positive period of growth for Will Rudd Ireland. We are absolutely committed to developing our people, recognising talent and creating long-term career opportunities.

  “Our work in Ireland continues to expand and our team is going from strength to strength. I look forward to providing strategic guidance to Shane in his role as Director in Ireland, ensuring our expansion is underpinned by strong leadership and shared vision. Our people remain the heartbeat of our business, and 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting year for us.”

  With expanding regional coverage, an increasingly senior leadership structure and a strong project pipeline across the UK and Ireland, Will Rudd continues to position itself as one of the most dynamic consultancies in the civil, structural and conservation engineering sector.ring in the UK and Ireland. Operating from three practices in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Dublin, the expert team delivers engineering and design services, working collaboratively with clients to deliver creative and innovative solutions across a range of sectors including conservation, energy and renewables, transportation and infrastructure, healthcare and education, and residential and hospitality including large master-planning developments.

  Will Rudd take on commissions that require a conservation accredited engineer and have a thriving live and historic portfolio of projects working with prominent listed buildings, monuments, historic bridges and ancient ruins. The company also holds an accreditation with the Conservation Accreditation Register for Engineers (CARE) Scheme.

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• Irish Building Magazine Developing Biomethane Production Facilities

  The significant role of biomethane in replacing fossil gas is recognised in EU law. In Ireland, our National Biomethane Strategy focuses on leveraging production potential of the agricultural sector and stimulating demand to produce up to 5.7 TWh of indigenously sourced biomethane annually by 2030. With Sarah Barrett and Sorcha Ryder.

  As the Government publishes its Biomethane Environmental Sustainability Charter, we look at key aspects of developing biomethane production facilities.

  Biomethane

  Biomethane is a carbon-neutral renewable gas, which is chemically almost identical to the methane found in natural gas but is produced from organic materials (farm and food waste) through a process known as anaerobic digestion.

  Permit-granting procedure

  The EU requires faster, streamlined permit-granting procedures under the Renewable Energy Directive. Biomethane facilities must be permitted within two years (or one year in renewables acceleration areas) and are presumed to be in the overriding public interest (which can help expedite assessments under EU environmental legislation and strengthen the legal position of projects when weighed against other public or private interests).

  Planning and environment

  Planning permission from the local authority is required. The Biomethane Strategy indicates that guidelines are being developed for local authorities to assess applications for anaerobic digestion and biorefinery facilities. Depending on the scale and feedstock, a production facility may also require an industrial emissions licence, an integrated pollution control licence, a water discharge licence, a waste collection permit, an end-of waste certification for digestate reuse, and an animal-by-products approval.

  Grid

  Biomethane producers may seek direct connection to the gas grid, which requires a connection agreement with Gas Networks Ireland (“GNI”). GNI may need to obtain a consent from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities for construction of a gas pipeline.

  Connection and use of system is regulated by law, with the EU’s Fourth Gas Package containing new provisions to encourage integration of renewable gas in the system. These include that Member States may grant biomethane facilities priority to connect, and there is a tariff discount for renewable gas applied to entry points from production facilities.

  Where biomethane is grid-injected, GNI provides evidence related to green credentials by issuing proofs of origin for mass balancing of injected and withdrawn renewable gas. A cancellation statement then allows green certificates to be obtained (see more below).

  There are also responsibilities around use of system. A licenced Shipper will accede to the GNI Code of Operations. The biomethane producer can become a Shipper itself or contract with the Shipper (often the offtaker or another third party). The Shipper books capacity. Daily nominations of gas to be injected must be made to GNI, and there are penalties if injected volumes exceed capacity purchased or do not match customer offtake. The commercial arrangements between the producer and offtaker should make clear their obligations and liabilities around nominations and balancing.

  Construction

  Contractual framework

  The contractual structuring for the construction of a biomethane facility can take a variety of forms, depending on the project’s complexity, the technology involved, availability of contractors willing to deliver under a turnkey model and any concerns around price certainty that the developer (and indeed any debt funder) may have.

  The engineering, procurement and construction (“turnkey”) procurement model is an approach often adopted, whereby a developer contracts with a single contractor who is responsible for the delivery of a fully operational facility. This model offers a streamlined process and clear project accountability.

  Alternatively, a split procurement model may be adopted, where separate contracts are awarded for the civil works and for the supply and installation of the technological aspects of the works. This model can offer greater flexibility to the developer and potential cost savings by avoiding the payment of a “turnkey premium” to a contractor. However, it can also require more coordination and interface management with regard to design responsibility, health and safety management, events giving rise to claims and the overall construction programme.

  Developer and supplier

  Given the complex nature of biomethane facilities, the supply and installation agreement is a key aspect of construction. More than one such agreement may be necessary, which will be determined by the technology required for the facility’s energy production (such as (i) anaerobic digestion systems – the treatment by which organic matter is broken down to produce biogas, and (ii) gas upgrading units – the treatment which removes CO₂ from raw biogas). Suppliers can be contracted to provide for the manufacturing, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of this technology.

  As the technology is relatively novel and highly specialised, market-leading suppliers may retain much of the bargaining power during contract negotiation and it may be common to see provisions which favour the supplier position. Key developer concerns when negotiating a supply and installation agreement include the passing of risk and title, the prescribed milestone dates, the consequences for any suspension period and/or dispute and how these elements may impact the agreed pricing terms.

  Operation

  Operation and maintenance of the facility is also a key consideration. These services may be performed initially by a supplier, before transitioning into a long-term operation and maintenance contract with an operator. It may be awarded as a stand-alone contract or wrapped into an asset management agreement. We often see contractors who have been responsible for delivery of the equipment assuming an operation and maintenance role for the lifetime of the facility, given their understanding of the technology.

  The operator can be responsible for ensuring the supply of feedstock to the facility from feedstock suppliers. Being the crucial component for biogas production, feedstock must be capable of being delivered to the facility on a continuous basis. The facility’s location should accommodate efficient delivery and its construction should accommodate feedstock storage as necessary.

  The supply of feedstock is of critical significance in the negotiation stage with contractors and suppliers. Given the precise technical requirements of the plant, certainty on the feedstock quality specifications, quantity and delivery and the pricing and payment mechanism are of extreme importance to guaranteeing the feasibility of these projects.

  Incentives / green credentials

  It is intended to provide capital grants for construction of biomethane facilities or upgrades to existing biogas plants. A first scheme provided 20% of total capital investment costs up to €5m per project.

  The State intends to stimulate demand for biomethane through the following mechanisms:

  • Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation and Advanced Biofuel Obligation: These impose obligations on fossil transport fuel suppliers to source 25% and 1.5% (in 2025) of fuel supplies from renewable sources and advanced biofuels respectively. Biomethane may fall into both categories but attracts additional RTFO certificates if it qualifies as an advanced biofuel. Producers receive RTFO certificates and suppliers purchase and surrender the number of certificates commensurate with their obligation.
  • Renewable Heat Obligation: It is planned to introduce an obligation on suppliers of fossil fuel used for heat from 2026 to 2045 based on a similar mechanism to the RTFO.
  • Support Scheme for Renewable Heat: This provides operational tariff or installation grant support to heat users.

  Biomethane producers injecting gas to the network can also receive Guarantees of Origin (“GoOs”), used to demonstrate to final customers the share or quantity of energy from renewable sources in an energy supplier’s energy mix or supply contracts. GNI issues GoOs to producers, who may sell them to suppliers. Eligibility for green certificates and GoOs is based on sustainability standards in the Renewable Energy Directive.

  Route to market

  Producers enter into a bilateral agreement with gas customers or suppliers to customers. There are several routes to market including corporate gas purchase agreements, supply agreements with fuel retailers, direct fuel supply agreements with industrial / logistics companies, or sale of shrinkage gas to GNI.

  In addition to price, invoicing and payment arrangements and volumes to be sold and purchased, contracts will provide for delivery point, transfer of title and risk, testing and quality specifications, and liability for off-specification gas. Biomethane purchasers may acquire the green credentials associated with biomethane production via the gas sales agreement or a separate agreement.

  Final thoughts

  Notwithstanding its challenges, the biomethane sector presents opportunities for developers and large energy users requiring secure, decarbonised energy sources. As the gas sector decarbonises, there will be opportunities for the construction sector in terms of production, storage and transport facilities, as well as in sectors using decarbonised energy solutions.

  Authors: Sarah Barrett Senior Associate and Sorcha Ryder Associate, Construction and Engineering. www.arthurcox.com

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December 19, 2025

• DBFL Happy Christmas from DBFL
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