Government Ministers visited Mount Lucas in County Offaly yesterday (June 8) to launch the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Action Plan and start construction of the National Demonstration Park for MMC.

Developed by the Department of Further and Higher Education in collaboration with industry and education providers, the MMC Action Plan outlines 58 specific actions across eight key themes aimed at accelerating the adoption of modern construction methods within the sector.

The Demonstration Park, which will be located on the National Construction Training Campus operated by Laois-Offaly ETB, is designed to showcase leading MMC techniques, provide immersive learning and support the growth of a national innovation ecosystem.

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Speaking at the launch event, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD said: "I am delighted to publish this landmark Action Plan which will assist in the accelerated adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), a significant representation of my department's and the government's commitment to meeting national skills needs.

"In addition, the National Demonstration Park will be Ireland's flagship centre for MMC showcasing, learning, and innovation. It will build industry and public confidence, technical expertise and a national ecosystem around MMC."

The Demonstration Park will house live examples of MMC across a variety of MMC technologies. It will also serve as a research and training space for new entrants, upskilling professionals and MMC innovators. The first units in the Demonstration Park are expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with training and industry and public engagement activity scaling throughout 2026.

Funding has been provided through a tripartite investment between the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.