Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for September 2015
30/09/2015
RoanKabin, Irish suppliers of modular buildings has completed a £3.4 million design and build contract for a one-storey modular building at Cork University Hospital (CUH). The facility is currently being used to accommodate the paediatric department's day procedures ward, assessment unit and some i
30/09/2015
A total of €430 million is to be invested on flood defence measures over six years, the Irish Government has confirmed. The flood protection capital programme 2016 – 2021 will build on the significant investment that has already been undertaken in flood relief works throughout the country over the
30/09/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at the government over its approach to solving the housing crisis in Ireland. Martin Ferris TD said the government's "inaction and indifference on the issue has become almost policy". He said: "There are 136 vacant properties in the county. Some of these people might not be s
30/09/2015
Sinn Féin has expressed disappointment over plans to proceed with the Metro North will not start until 2021. Sinn Féin Transport Spokesperson Dessie Ellis welcomed plans to proceed with the development, however he said the plans been consistently pushed back by government after government over the
30/09/2015
An £80,000 improvement project is to start on the B2 Ballynahinch Road in Ballykeel. The scheme is scheduled to begin on Monday 05 October and is expected to be complete in two weeks. The works are designed to improve the alignment of the bend and provide enhanced signing. Diversions will be put
30/09/2015
Residents have been told to pay €4 million so that remedial works can be carried out at the Longboat Quay development in Dublin. Sinn Féin councillor for the Pembroke-South Dock area Chris Andrews said it is "entirely unrealistic" to ask residents and is calling for an immediate intervention from a
30/09/2015
Fianna Fáil is calling on Kildare County Council to consider rates concessions to be granted to retail main street properties where upstairs floors are used for residential use. Mayor of Naas Cllr James Lawless said it would encourage more people to live on Ireland's main streets and said it would
30/09/2015
New £1.4 million spa and leisure facilities have officially opened in County Tyrone. The project, at Corick House Hotel, also added 24 en-suite rooms. It was supported by Invest NI with capital grants of £230,000. Finance Minister Arlene Foster said: "Corick House's success is testament to the bus
29/09/2015
Construction work on the new Metro North in Dublin is to begin in 2021, the government has confirmed. The work is expected to be complete in 2026. Labour Party TD Brendan Ryan welcomed the announcement. Deputy Ryan said: "We needed to get the public finances in order and get people back to work.
29/09/2015
Primary and post primary students are being encouraged to enter this year's One Good Idea competition. The competition, sponsored by AIB, requires students to come up with creative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Since it first launched in 2008, over 5,000 students have created energy savin
29/09/2015
Two men from Fermanagh have been fined for waste offences at Enniskillen Magistrates' Court. Mr Bartley Downey and Mr Adrian Fisher were fined £200 each. The offences related to the depositing of waste tyres at a bonfire site without the appropriate waste management authorisation. Mr Downey and M
29/09/2015
Over €73 million is to be invested in Donegal's water infrastructure over the next 4 years, in a partnership between Irish Water and Donegal County Council. The investment is expected to directly benefit 90,000 people across the country. Irish Water, working with Donegal County Council has develop
29/09/2015
The Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment (DETI) is in "disarray" over the renewables obligations order, according to Chair of the Assembly Enterprise Committee MLA Patsy McGlone. Mr McGlone made the claim over legislation designed to close funding for renewable energy projects. He said: "
29/09/2015
Road resurfacing works are expected to start in Magherafelt on Wednesday, 30 September. Work on the £180,000 scheme includes the A6 Glenshane Road near the village of Knockloughrim which will take place between the Hillhead Road and the Ballynahone Road. It is expected to take approximately four we
29/09/2015
A total of nine new listed buildings have been announced for the Causeway Coast and Glens council area in Northern Ireland. In Coleraine town these include the library, Georgian buildings between 11 and 17 Bridge Street, detached Georgian houses at 88 Lodge Road and 46 Mountsandel Road, and the 195
29/09/2015
The Government has been called to accept Sinn Féin's motion which outlines and emergency and long-term response to the housing crisis affecting Ireland. Housing Spokesperson Dessie Ellis is urging the government to acknowledge that the only way to fully address the crisis is to immediately commence
28/09/2015
Work on a resurfacing project in south Belfast is to expected to start on Monday 05 October. The work, on a carriageway and footway resurfacing scheme, which will take place between Piney Hills and Stranmillis Road, are expected to take approximately six weeks to complete. To enable carriageway su
28/09/2015
Letterkenny in Co Donegal has been named Ireland's Tidiest Town for 2015. It was named best of the 862 towns and villages throughout the country that entered this year's SuperValu National TidyTowns competition. Clonegal in Co Carlow claimed the award of Ireland's Tidiest Village. Other winners i
28/09/2015
The Environment Minister has extended the smoky coal ban nationwide at a conference in Dublin today, 28 September. Speaking at the conference, held in the Wood Quay offices of Dublin City Council, Minister Alan Kelly said: "It is right to extend the benefits of the ban on smoky coal nationwide. The
28/09/2015
A Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) for Northern Ireland for all involved in the planning system has been published by the Environment Minister. The SPPS reduces 20 separate planning policy statements to one. This provides the policy on key issues such as town centres and retail developmen
28/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Minister for Arts for failing to secure the future of Russborough House in Co Wicklow. Spokesperson on Arts and Culture Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD said that despite an initial breakthrough last June, Minister Heather Humphreys has failed to advance a long term plan to secure
28/09/2015
The complaint system available for landlords, tenants and neighbours needs to be radically reformed, according to Fianna Fáil. The party's leader on Dublin City Council, Cllr Paul McAuliffe, said reform of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) is needed to ensure it is fit for purpose. Cl
28/09/2015
Local authorities have been slammed after it was revealed they are sitting on over 2,600 vacant housing units in Ireland instead of putting them into use. The figures were obtained by Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment and Local Government Barry Cowen through a series of Freedom of Information
25/09/2015
Irish energy firm ESB today has announced an operating profit of €337 million, an increase of €10 million on the same period in 2014. ESB's Chief Executive, Pat O'Doherty, said: "These results reflect a solid performance in the first half of 2015, while markets continue to be challenging as wholesa
25/09/2015
Limerick City and County Council has issued a warning to the public and solid fuel traders who hold 'smoky' coal in the town and who attempt to distribute or sell it could be liable for a spot fine of €1,000 under new penalties introduced by Government. The signing into law of the Environment (Misc
25/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Environment Minister over the continuing rent crisis affecting people Ireland. Spokesperson on Environment and Local Government Barry Cowen said the rental crisis constitutes a "moral failing" on behalf of landlords. Figures released by the PRTB revealed a 7% increas
25/09/2015
The Alliance Party has welcomed the decision by the Environment Minister to scrap plans to develop a waste incinerator in Hightown near Mallusk. Alliance Councillor John Blair said the decision brings an end of concern and uncertainty for local residents. Mr Blair said: "While Alliance recognises
25/09/2015
The DUP is calling on the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to take action on waste immediately. Foyle MLA Gary Middleton made the call after raising concerns about the former brickkiln site in Maydown, L'Derry. Mr Middleton said: "Since the site has been closed several months ago, large
25/09/2015
A man from Carrickfergus has been fined for waste offences at Antrim Magistrates' Court. Samuel Gordon Ferguson, 36, was fined a total of £600 after officers from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) found large quantities of waste tyres at a site in Templepatrick. Mr Ferguson, operating
25/09/2015
Sinn Féin is to introduce its bill calling for the housing and homeless crisis to be addressed immediately in the Dáil on Tuesday, 29 September. The party said the crisis has spiralled because of years of underinvestment in social housing by Fine Gael/Labour and previous Fianna Fáil led governments
25/09/2015
Plans for six new listed buildings in L'Derry have been proposed by the Environment Minister. The buildings include three former World War Two hangars beside the airport. A row of three terraced buildings in a prominent location on the Northland Road is also being proposed for listing. Minister M
25/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Taoiseach over his continued silence and delay in publishing a letter sent by the Fortress Group from an unsuccessful bidder of NAMA's £1.3 billion property porfolio in Northern Ireland. Deputy Leader Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach at Leaders' Questions to confir
24/09/2015
Plans for the Hightown incinerator have been scrapped. Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly welcomed the announcement and described it as a "significant victory" for north Belfast and south Antrim. Mr Kelly said: "In my view the huge level of opposition to this proposal for an incinerator being forced upon l
24/09/2015
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has partnered with Bryson Energy to help tenants learn more about how to reduce fuel bills and improve heat in their homes. NIHE is Home Energy Conservation Authority for Northern Ireland. The Heatsmart programme, with Bryson Energy, helps NIHE tenant
24/09/2015
The Environment Minister has been called to "act upon" the pledge he made in relation to rent controls and rent freezes. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Social Protection, Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, said Minister Alan Kelly promised action on a radio programme, however the legislative programme that was publi
24/09/2015
The current housing crisis in Ireland has been described as "out of control". Sinn Fein's David Cullinane made the comment after a recent Daft.ie Rental Report revealed that rents are rising for a short supply of available homes which is pushing people into homelessness and emergency accommodation.
24/09/2015
The Environment Minister is being urged to "come clean" over the threat to mine lignite in north Antrim. Ulster Unionist MLA Robin Swann made the call following the publication of the Northern Area Plan. During Question Time at Stormont, the North Antrim MLA asked Minister Mark H Durkan: "Will he
24/09/2015
More construction jobs in Northern Ireland will be created during the development of a new radiotherapy unit at the Altnegelvin hospital in L'Derry, the Finance Minister has confirmed. Minister Arlene Foster made the announcement during her recent visit to the £32 million construction site for the
24/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has called on the Taoiseach to publish a letter sent by the Fortress Group from an unsuccessful bidder of NAMA's £1.3 billion property porfolio in Northern Ireland. Leader Micheál Martin has said the Taoiseach's office must know if it received a complaint letter. In response to questio
24/09/2015
34% of Northern Ireland's largest construction firms are struggling to stabilise their business activities, and 16% are operating in survival mode, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC. The latest quarterly survey of Northern Ireland's co
24/09/2015
Northern Ireland construction firm Farrans has been selected as contractor to develop a community centre on the North West Cambridge Development. The University of Cambridge appointed Farrans to build the Storey's Field Centre, to be managed by the Storey's Field Community Trust, a joint venture be
24/09/2015
The Native Woodland Conservation Scheme has been launched at the National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Stradbally, Co. Laois. Funding is provided under the scheme to restore Ireland's native woodlands, which are rich complex ecosystems and an invaluable part of Ireland's natural heritage.
23/09/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at the government over the housing crisis in Dublin and Louth. The party said the government is responsible for the crisis and is calling for the housing policy to be changed. SF President Gerry Adams said: "There are 5,000 citizens in temporary shelter across the state, incl
23/09/2015
The announcement that a new wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is to be developed in Cork has been welcomed by Fine Gael. The plant is part of the €91m Cork Lower Harbour Main Drainage Project. TD for Cork North West, Áine Collins, said the plant at Shanbally marks a major upgrading of water treatm
23/09/2015
The government's decision to scrap the planned DART Underground has been slammed by Fianna Fáil. Spokesperson on Dublin Senator Darragh O'Brien accused the Transport Minister of finding any excuse of trying to ditch the plans. Senator O'Brien said: "The DART Underground is an essential piece of in
23/09/2015
A permanent site has been acquired to develop a new school building for Stepaside Educate Together national school in Dublin. Olivia Mitchell, Fine Gael TD for Dublin South, welcomed the confirmation and said it is great news for staff and pupils. She said: "The lack of information around the loca
23/09/2015
A total of €30 million has been secured to revitalise rural towns and villages throughout Ireland from 2016 to 2021, the government has confirmed. The new scheme aims to improve the living and working environment in rural communities and enhance their potential to support increased economic activit
23/09/2015
Tanaiste Joan Burton has met with community campaigners to discuss their concerns over wind farms. The meeting took place in Portlaoise on Wednesday morning before the Tanaiste's Ploughing itinerary. It was chaired by Deputy Jack Wall, chairman of the Labour Parliamentary Party. Labour Senator Jo
23/09/2015
The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is being urged to take action to ensure Ireland will reach its renewable energy targets. Deputy Michael Colreavy, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, said a lack of a coherent energy strategy has cause
23/09/2015
A debate to create an independent environment protection agency is to be opened by the Environment Minister. Minister Mark H Durkan said that the present streamlining of government departments offers an opportunity for an agency to be created. Minister Durkan said: "With such radical changes to ou
23/09/2015
Datum Monitoring Ireland in Moira, Co Down, is managing monitoring works at the primary train station in Cork to ensure ongoing construction works adjacent to Kent Station will not affect the stability of the city's superstructure or railway lines. The ongoing €3.5million project at Kent Station by
23/09/2015
Irish Energy firm Energia has announced it sponsored The Profit Shop at the recent Food & Hospitality event in Dublin. The event took place at the Citywest Event Centre on 16 and 17 September. The interactive shop highlighted how retailers can maximise the profitability of their shop through cost
22/09/2015
Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) has changed its name to Northern Ireland Networks after a survey revealed many customers were confused over the firm's role. A survey showed that out of 900 emails and phone calls, 250 customers were contacting the wrong company. Many people are also unsure when t
22/09/2015
Belfast City Council has launched its City Regeneration and Investment strategy at the Waterfront Hall. The 'Belfast: Future City – making it real' event aims to transform the city by creating more jobs, increasing the population, attracting new retail offerings, and further developing the tourism
22/09/2015
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport has announced the DART Underground project will not go-ahead. Minister Paschal Donohoe T.D., said it will be redesigned to provide a lower cost technical solution for the project. The estimated cost of the currently designed DART Underground Project i
22/09/2015
Fianna Fáil is urging all Dublin City Councillors to retain the 15% reduction in property taxes. The Fianna Fáil Leader on Dublin City Council Paul McAuliffe said the move is necessary to provide some relief to struggling homeowners at a time of high mortgage rates. Speaking ahead of a meeting to
22/09/2015
Housing charity Threshold is calling for a number of urgent measures to be introduced to address the growing housing and homelessness crisis. Senator Aideen Hayden, Chairperson of Threshold, said: "The Dublin Tenancy Protection Service has been one of the most successful homelessness prevention mea
22/09/2015
Landowners are being advised that the forestry planting programme is officially open. The Minister of State Tom Hayes advised landowners that applications are now invited for financial approval under the Afforestation Scheme by applicants with valid technical approvals. He said: "It has been decid
22/09/2015
The Government is being urged to overhaul the guidelines over the development of windfarms. Fianna Fáil TD for Longford – Westmeath Robert Troy said the current guidelines have no statutory basis and can be over-ruled by wind farm developers at their own discretion. He said: "There is intense com
22/09/2015
Sinn Féin is calling on all witnesses to be heard in the public session over the inquiry into the sale of NAMA's northern loan portfolio. Speaking ahead of the Finance Committee meeting tomorrow, 23 September, MLA Daithí McKay said the public wants to see "transparency and openness". He said: "If
22/09/2015
Over €3 million in funding has been secured to redevelop the Moyross Community Enterprise Centre in Limerick. The funding, which is part of the Limerick Regeneration Programme, will be used to extend and refurbish the building and will deliver a much improved space from which these key community su
22/09/2015
Irish energy firm ESB has announced over €270,000 of funding has been awarded to over 45 community and voluntary organisations across Ireland. The funding is part of the autumn 2015 round of its 'Energy for Generations' community fund. The Energy for Generations fund supports the work of not-for-
21/09/2015
The NI Housing Executive (NIHE) has met with the Mid Ulster Council to outline its plans for the next four years. A Housing Investment Plan (HIP) was presented at the meeting on 18 September, which replaced the District Housing Plan of previous years. The NIHE said it is due to make a 'significant
21/09/2015
Powerscourt Distillery is to lodge a planning application to develop a new distillery facility and visitors centre. The €10m investment is to create 30 jobs during the construction phase of the project at the Powerscourt Estate in Co Wicklow. Plans include to refurbish the Estate's old mill house
21/09/2015
New guidelines regarding the regulation of wind farms are expected to be unveiled shortly, it has been reported. Speaking on RTÉ's The Week in Politics, Ged Nash, Minister of State at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, said ministers Alex White and Alan Kelly had been working on th
21/09/2015
Almost 1,500 children are living in emergency accommodation due to the housing crisis, Sinn Féin TD Sandra McLellan has said. Deputy McLellan said the situation was due to parents "being forced into an impossible position" by the government's approach to solving the crisis. She said: "The governme
21/09/2015
Applegreen has announced it will create 70 full-time jobs at its new motorway service area in Co Kilkenny. The development is located at junction 7 on the M9 near Paulstown. It has already generated 100 jobs during the €7m construction phase. The forecourt retailer said it will hire 70 full-time
21/09/2015
Michael McGrath, Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Finance, has criticised the rules from Central Bank regarding mortgage lending. He says the rules, which have been in place since February 2015, are having a "signifiant adverse effect" on families being able to 'trade up' as their needs change. He added
21/09/2015
A £400,000 refurbishment project is to be carried out at Carryduff Household Recycling Centre. Located on the Comber Road, the facility will close for the duration of the works. Work will commence on site on Monday 28 September, with the project expected to last for three to four months. In a
21/09/2015
Work has commenced to demolish the last remaining tower block in Ballymun, Dublin. The final phase to demolish Joseph Plunkett Tower began today, 21 September, and will be carried out using a long reach hydraulic 'nibbler', which will bite its way through the structure. The method was also used
18/09/2015
NI firm Saliis Ltd has scooped a contract to install solar photo voltaic (PV) systems in 1,000 Housing Executive homes across the province. The project is worth up to £5 million to the Northern Ireland economy and is based on a 'rent a roof' model, which means tenants could save up to £200 per year
18/09/2015
The newly built Titanic Exhibition Centre has officially opened in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The 6,000 square metre structure will be used as a potential venue for exhibitions, community and sporting events. More than 3,000 visitors will be able to attend exhibitions at any one time and the TEC w
18/09/2015
Limerick City and County Council is urging teachers to attend the 15th annual Green Schools Seminar. The seminar, hosted by the council, is returning to the Maldron Hotel in Limerick on 01 October. It is aimed at teachers in the Limerick area who are new to the Green Schools process, and experienc
18/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Government following reports that it plans to axe the DART Underground, despite having spent €300m on the project to date. The Government has also failed to include the construction of the DART Underground in its next round of capital spending. General Election candi
18/09/2015
Choice Housing Ireland has invested £1.3 million to develop a total of 14 single occupancy bungalows in Magherafelt, L'Derry. In partnership with the Northern Ireland Health & Social Care Trust, the scheme aims to support people to achieve their maximum level of independence. The residents are in
18/09/2015
Sinn Féin has slammed Irish Water after it was revealed employees earning more than €100,000 per annum are to be rewarded disproportionately compared to other staff. Seanad spokesperson on Local Government, Senator David Cullinane, made the comments following an announcement that the Labour Relatio
18/09/2015
A total of 43 applications have been received in the 2015 Atlantic Margin Round. The Minister of State and Natural Resources, Joe McHugh, TD said this is the "largest number" received in a licensing round held in the Irish offshore. He said: "The applicant companies include majors, mid-cap compani
18/09/2015
Irish Water has announced it is pushing ahead with emergency watermains rehabilitation works in Co Mayo. A meeting took place in Ballina on Thursday, 17 September, with representatives from Irish Water, Mayo County Council, elected representatives and Ballina Chamber of Commerce to discuss the work
18/09/2015
The Irish-Scottish Links on Energy Study has been launched. The study is a joint initiative between the three partner governments of Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland, and publication marks completion of the second phase of the ISLES project. The ISLES project has examined the opportunities f
18/09/2015
The Green Party is calling on the state to use RTÉ, Dublin Bus and NAMA lands in Dublin to help solve the housing crisis. The party's leader Eamon Ryan said the state owned lands hold the key to solving the problem. Mr Ryan said: "By reserving a suitable site in Dublin City centre for a new RTÉ co
17/09/2015
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) is to discuss major issues facing the construction industry ahead of the Budget in October with the Department of Finance. The CIF will also highlight specific measures that the Government can take to increase activity in the construction sector. The CIF
17/09/2015
Environment Minister Alan Kelly T.D., has met with other EU Environment and Climate Ministers as UN negotiations towards a new global climate deal enter their final phase. Minister Kelly has also met with Environment Commissioner Vella and Climate Commissioner Arias Cañete, in an audience with His
17/09/2015
Irish energy firm ESB has announced it is to recruit 55 graduates from Irish third level institutions. The three year programme includes graduates from engineering, IT, marketing and finance. The Graduate Programme forms part of an ambitious drive by ESB to recruit the brightest talent from Irish
17/09/2015
Sinn Féin is calling on the Taoiseach to admit defeat over the ongoing Irish Water saga. The party's leader Gerry Adams said while it is a welcome boost for households to receive the Water Conservation Grant it is an "accountancy trick" to keep Irish Water off the balance sheet. Mr Adams said: "It
17/09/2015
Three community groups in Northern Ireland have been congratulated for improving their local environment. Ardboe Community Projects, Moortown St Malachy's GAC and Tobin Youth Centre were allocated funding through the Department of Environment's Challenge Fund. Ardboe Community Projects will engage
17/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has slammed the Government for making it increasingly difficult for first time buyers to purchase their first property. Senator Thomas Byrne has described the Tanáiste Joan Burton’s apparent last minute conversion as entirely lacking in credibility. Senator Byrne commented: "In July,
17/09/2015
A total of ten units in Dublin are to be made available to house homeless families in the Ballymun area. Refurbishment work on the units in Ballymun Plaza is complete and 10 families are expected to move in this month. Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson, Dessie Ellis TD, has welcomed the news, however
17/09/2015
Ervia (formerly known as Bord Gáis Éireann) is to accept a pay proposal from the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) following a dispute with its Group of Unions in recent months. The Group of Unions will now be balloting the proposal with their members. The dispute came to light following a decis
17/09/2015
The Environment Minister has confirmed an 'opt-out' option is to be included on a previous requirement to obtain statutory certificates for the building of one-off family homes in rural areas. Fianna Fáil General Election candidate for Sligo-Leitrim Cllr. Eamon Scanlon welcomed the decision, howeve
17/09/2015
Education Minister John O'Dowd travelled to Co Tyrone today, Thursday, to view the building work at St Joseph's Grammar School in Donaghmore. Work is currently underway at the site which will transform the schools facilities including the drama and physical education departments. Sinn Féin MLA Bro
16/09/2015
Over €2,000,000 has been secured to develop a total of 31 new housing units in County Clare. The €2,416,000 funding has allocated to three approved housing bodies. Focus Ireland Housing Association is being allocated €550,000 for the delivery of 12 units, for young adults at risk of homelessness.
16/09/2015
The A5 upgrade project in west Tyrone has been described as in "limbo" after Roads Minister Danny Kennedy made the decision to step aside from his post. Sinn Féin MLA Declan McAleer confirmed the decision on the draft orders must be made by the minister. He said: "As a result of the former minist
16/09/2015
Households in Fingal, Co Dublin, are to continue to benefit from a 15% cut in property tax after Fianna Fáil secured an agreement with the council. However, Labour, the Green Party and some independent councillors refused to support the 15% cut. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Dublin and local Senator
16/09/2015
Construction suppliers are being urged to attend a 'Meet The Buyer' event in Co Mayo as part of the €160 million Primary Care Centre PPP programme. The National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) and HSE in partnership with Enterprise Ireland are supporting the event which is to take place on Friday
16/09/2015
BioNua Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nexvet, has signed a ten-year lease to run its business operations at a 20,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Tullamore, Co Offaly. The firm will also have the option to purchase the building at the end of the lease agreement. The facility has operated
16/09/2015
The Environment Minister has announced he is to open a debate on the establishment of an all island independent environment agency. Minister Mark H Durkan also called for greater North South co-operation to protect and promote the environment. Speaking at the Environment Ireland Conference in Crok
16/09/2015
A tunnelling firm based in Newry, Co Armagh, has been selected to join a £57m office development in London to the London Underground. Terra Solutions has been subcontracted by Hochtief UK to create two passenger tunnels between a ticketing office under Bloomberg's planned European headquarters and
16/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Government over the homeless crisis and said it is a "national disgrace" that it has escalated to the level it has now reached. Spokesperson on Environment and Local Government Barry Cowen said: "The Government needs to take radical steps to help alleviate the homeles
16/09/2015
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) is calling on the government to implement policies in the next budget. The CIF has proposed six steps for inclusion in October's budget, aimed at increasing levels of house building as well as stimulating further recovery in our economy. CIF has called o
16/09/2015
A boil water notice has been imposed for people living within the Aughrim Annacurragh Public Water Supply Scheme in Co Wicklow after the presence of ecoli was identified. A malfunction occurred at the Aughrim Annacurragh Water Treatment Plant on Sunday 13 September which resulted in lower than norm
15/09/2015
DP Energy based in Cork has announced a partnership with tidal developer Atlantis to develop a multi-turbine array at the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE) facility in Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, Canada. The deal will see DP Energy acquire a 50% stake in Atlantis Operations Canada Li
15/09/2015
Sinn Féin has announced it will abolish the Local Property Tax (LPT) if elected to government. Dublin West Sinn Féin representative Cllr Paul Donnelly confirmed the party will once again vote to reduce the Local Property Tax for citizens of Fingal. Cllr Donnelly said: "In the interim, we will use
15/09/2015
A Modular Housing Demonstration Project to help homeless families has officially opened in Dublin. The six modular units on East Wall Road, all include two bedroom units, kitchen and living room space, storage facilities and bathrooms. All of the units are designed to accommodate family living.
15/09/2015
The 'Talking Timber' event, which aims to provide forest owners with an opportunity to access information about selling their timber, has officially opened in Tullow, Co Carlow. The event was organised by Teagasc, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and with the
15/09/2015
The Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) is to host its national conference in Co Offaly over the next two days, 16 - 17 September. The conference at the Tullamore Court Hotel, O'Moore Street, Tullamore, will focus on the measures needed to stimulate investment in social housing and build cultur
15/09/2015
NI Water and its contractor Lagan Construction have started essential watermains improvement work in Annaclone, Co Down. The work on Sentry Box Road is expected to take approximately six weeks to complete. The £130,000 investment will be used to upgrade water mains and will improve the quality, r
15/09/2015
Antrim and Newtownabbey Council is calling on the local community to get involved in planning decisions for the area. Councillor Roderick Swann, Chairperson of the Council's Planning Committee, said with the bulk of planning powers now in the control of the Council, this is bringing decision-making
15/09/2015
Prochem Engineering based in Kilkenny has been shortlisted for the Innovation of the Year accolade at the Pharma Industry Awards 2015. Prochem has been shortlisted as a result of its inventive and determined approach to the design and delivery of The Equilibration Warehouse, a close control, high t
15/09/2015
The Government has approved appointees to the Board of the Grangegorman Development Agency (GDA). The 15 person Board of Directors is the governing authority of the GDA. The Agency is responsible for the redevelopment of the former St. Brendan's Hospital grounds in Dublin City Centre. The redevelo
15/09/2015
The National University of Ireland (NUIM) and a wave energy firm in Scotland are to receive an €800,000 EU Horizon 2020 grant. The grant is to be used to improve the performance of Aquamarine Power's Oyster wave energy converter. The new Brussels-backed programme, INNOWAVE, will enable three PhD r
14/09/2015
Sinn Féin Leader Gerry Adams TD has hit out at Fianna Fáil and said the party likes to give the impression that it is opposed to Water Charges and to Irish Water however this is a "charade". Mr Adams said Micheál Martin provided people with a timely reminder that Fianna Fáil is a pro-Water Charges
14/09/2015
An Irish energy firm has identified significant savings that could be made from an upgrade to the lighting systems for Frank Keane BMW. Energia have reduced the firms annual electricity use by 85%, cutting their carbon footprint by 39 tonnes of CO2 and generating yearly cost savings of almost €12,5
14/09/2015
The banks are being accused of engaging in a concerted campaign to maintain high variable mortgage rates. Fianna Fáil Finance spokesperson Michael McGrath said the Minister for Finance has effectively been given the run around for the last six months since the issue was put on the Dáil agenda by a
14/09/2015
Irish Water owes Dublin City Council a total of €8.194 million it has been revealed. The money was for Water services projects and debtors at the end of 2013. Dublin City Sinn Féin Councillor Noeleen Reilly said there is still no date of payment. She said: "Dublin City Council lost almost €2 bill
14/09/2015
Regeneration work at the Ulster Canal Stores building in Clones, Co Monaghan, is now complete. Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O'Neill MLA attended the official opening. The Minister jointly officiated at the event with Minister Heather Humphreys TD, the south's minister for Ar
14/09/2015
Patterson Pumps in Mullingar has announced it is to create over 25 new jobs. The 28 new posts are to be created following a significant investment in a new manufacturing facility. Fine Gael TD for Longford/Westmeath, Gabrielle McFadden, welcomed the announcement. She said: "The expansion by this
14/09/2015
Plans to revitalise urban villages in Dublin have been launched by Fianna Fáil. The policy, written by Dublin City Councillors Daithí de Róiste and Paul McAuliffe, targets villages within the city confines that have suffered serious decline in recent years at the hands of large out-of-town shopping
11/09/2015
Refurbishment work on a basement hall at a church in Belfast City Centre has been completed. The £350,000 refurb work at May Street Presbyterian Church is part of the Urban Soul basement area and will be made available for community-based activities and Christian outreach. The 1,400 sq ft hall, wh
11/09/2015
Belfast City Council has scooped three prizes at the Sustainable Ireland Awards 2015. The prizes were for for its contribution towards energy saving, waste collection and street cleansing. The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Arder Carson, congratulated staff after they were named winners in the
11/09/2015
The shortlist for the ESB Spark of Genius Award has been announced. The award focuses on high potential technology start-ups with a prize fund of €25,000 presented to the winner at the 2015 Web Summit in the RDS. Fifteen start-ups ranging from healthcare and beauty apps, marketing and gaming devel
11/09/2015
A plant hire firm and and a driver have been found guilty in relation to a dangerously overweight vehicle. Mr Richard Lee from Enniskillen, was fined £200 and given three penalty points. FAL Plant & Tool Hire Ltd in Ballinamallard was fined £500. The court also ordered Mr Lee and FAL Plant & Tool
11/09/2015
Fianna Fáil TD is urgently calling on Irish Water to carry out a full assessment of the pipe network in Ballina, Co Mayo. Cllr Dara Calleary made the call following a number of major bursts in the town in recent days and months. Deputy Calleary commented: "There is obviously a major problem with t
11/09/2015
Public consultations seeking views on whether the Government should broaden the range of renewable energy technologies that receive financial support from Ireland until September this year have been extended. One consultation focuses on technologies that can deliver renewable electricity, while the
11/09/2015
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has appointed Clark Bailie as its new Chief Executive. Mr Bailie joined the NIHE as Director of Finance in December 2007. He has spent the majority of his career in public sector finance, including 14 years as Director of Finance in the United Hospitals
11/09/2015
The basic concept behind bunding above-ground outdoor oil storage tanks is quite simple. Oil that leaks out of a tank – including petrol, diesel, vegetable, mineral, and synthetic oil – poses a serious pollution hazard, particularly if it reaches groundwater or watercourses such as rivers and canals
10/09/2015
NI construction firm, FK Lowry Piling, has completed a £300,000 Wind Farm Project in Yorkshire. The firm was contracted by I&H Brown Ltd to design and install 630 No. 275mm Square Precast Driven Piles to 14m at the Twin Rivers Wind Farm Scheme in Goole. A total of 14 No. Wind Turbine Bases requi
10/09/2015
Planning permission has been approved to develop a storage data centre in Galway. Apple is to invest €850 million in the new centre which will be based in Athenry. Labour Senator Lorraine Higgins welcomed the announcement. Senator Higgins said: "Multinational investment is very important for Athe
10/09/2015
Councillors in Limerick have discussed plans with Irish Water on how to run a pilot orthophosphate treatment programme. The programme aims to reduce lead levels in drinking water. The proposals involve Irish Water, in partnership with Limerick City and County Council, adding an Orthophosphate Tre
10/09/2015
The Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies (CREST) has opened a new facility in Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh. To celebrate the opening of the bioenergy research and development and testing facility, the firm has announced a three day programme of free bioenergy events which will take
10/09/2015
Construction firms in Northern Ireland are being called to bid for the £1 billion worth of contracts from High Speed Two Ltd (HS2). Speaking at an event in Belfast hosted by Invest Northern Ireland in conjunction with HS2, Enterprise Minister Jonathon Bell said: "HS2 is an extremely significant inv
10/09/2015
Preferred sites have been identified to develop a building a new school for Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré in Sligo. The Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré is currently located within the grounds of St. Mary's G.A.A. club in Ballydoogan. Fine Gael TD for Sligo Leitrim, John Perry, welcomed the announcement. He said: "
10/09/2015
Flogas marked its 1,000th commercial natural gas connection in Northern Ireland with a touch of Hollywood glamour as the Movie House cinema chain signed up two of its branches to Flogas Natural Gas. The Movie House cinemas in Cityside Belfast and Coleraine will now be using Flogas natural gas for
10/09/2015
Over 35 new homes are being built in a £4 million investment by a local development firm, supported by Ulster Bank. 32 properties are being developed at Ballynure Road in Ballyclare as part of the investment by Cultra Developments Limited, along with five detached houses in Carrickfergus. Work has
09/09/2015
Construction work has started on a €21 million redevelopment scheme at Ireland's biggest multi-sectoral business park. The five-year programme at the Shannon Free Zone involves the construction of advanced manufacturing units and office blocks as well upgrading some of its existing core assets. T
09/09/2015
Restoration work on Bryce House in Cork is now complete. Mrs Annan Bryce's cottage, which has been restored to its original character by a project funded by Fáilte Ireland and the Office of Public Works (OPW), has been officially opened to the public by the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport,
09/09/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at the Government for "misleading the public" over the current housing crisis in Ireland. Housing Spokesperson Dessie Ellis slammed Minister of State for Housing Paudie Coffey after he denied almost 130,000 families needed housing, claiming figures which were calculated in 201
09/09/2015
The Government's 'Water Conservation Grant' is nothing more than a "gimmick", according to Fianna Fáil. General Election candidate for Mayo Cllr Lisa Chambers claimed the grant will end up costing Mayo taxpayers money and will do nothing to encourage people to conserve water. Cllr Chambers said:
09/09/2015
Bord Gáis Energy has announced a reduction in gas and electricity prices for residential customers. Gas customer unit rates will decrease by 2.5% and electricity customer unit rates will decrease by 2.0%. The prices will come into effect on 01 October this year. Minister for Energy, Alex White T
09/09/2015
The Department of Regional Development (DRD) is to carry out a routine river inspection on Craigavon Bridge and Queen's Quay. The work, which will take place in September, includes the inspection of the underside of both structures and will take place from a boat in the River Foyle. Craigavon Bri
09/09/2015
The Global Irish Design Challenge has launched as part of Irish Design 2015 (ID2015). The Global Irish Design Challenge invites designers of Irish lineage to present products, projects and concepts that have the potential to revolutionise the way we live. The challenge aims to celebrate and provi
08/09/2015
Firmus Energy is to reduce its domestic and business natural gas prices by up to 10% for customers in Northern Ireland. The announcement follows the completion of the recent review of prices of all the suppliers in Greater Belfast area and will come into effect on 05 October. The tariff decrease,
08/09/2015
Construction work has started to develop a new wastewater treatment plant in Co Cork The Irish Water plant is part of the €91m Cork Lower Harbour Main Drainage scheme at Shanbally. The project will end the practice of untreated sewage being discharged directly into the harbour from Cobh, Carrigali
08/09/2015
Following the success of the Northern Ireland Renewable Heat Energy Initiative (RHI), changes have been proposed to introduce tiered tariffs for new biomass heating systems from 04 November 2015. The RHI provides long-term financial support for businesses and households wishing to switch from conv
08/09/2015
The Belfast Planning Service has launched a public consultation inviting the public to give their views on how they should be involved in planning decisions and developing the city in the future. The Planning Service is part of Belfast City Council which will focus on the Statement of Community Inv
08/09/2015
Over €4.5 million has been spent on emergency accommodation for homeless people living in Dublin in the first half of this year, new figures have revealed. The figures released to Fianna Fáil Councillor Daithí de Róiste by Dublin City Council show that in two years, the spend on emergency accommoda
08/09/2015
New legislation has been published to close a loophole in the Supreme Court on home repossessions. The Central Bank (Code of Conduct Bill) 2015 expands the protection for borrowers facing repossession proceedings. It was revealed in May of this year when the Supreme Court held that, although banks
08/09/2015
The Alliance Party has hit out at the Council over its decision to close the majority of recycling centres in Northern Ireland on bank holidays. Alliance Councillor Scott Wilson raised concerns after the DUP and UUP failed to support the party's amendment aimed at keeping recycling centres open. C
08/09/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at Fine Gael and accused the party of trying to distract from the issue of the human right to water. Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan made the announcement ahead of a vote today, Tuesday, in the European Parliament on the Right2Water campaign. She said: "In true Fine Gael fashion, i
07/09/2015
Fianna Fáil has slammed the 'Water Conservation Grant' and said it will cost the state up to €135m this year. Spokesperson for Environment and Local Government Barry Cowen said the only reason Minister for Environment Alan Kelly established the grant was to secure Eurostat's approval for Irish Wate
07/09/2015
Construction tender prices have risen by 2.6% in the first half of this year, according to the latest Tender Price Index. Published by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), the index shows tender prices are up 5.5% year on year. Micheál Mahon, Chairman of the Quantity Surveying Profes
07/09/2015
Fine Gael has claimed Sinn Féin is set for a major U-turn on its opposition to water charges. MEPs are due to vote on Lynn Boylan's report including paragraph 92 which calls on Member States to ensure they are "providing for the application of a progressive charge that is proportional to the amount
07/09/2015
Around 700 homes and businesses were left without electricity after a contractor damaged a high voltage cable in Enniskillen. The incident occurred on the Chanterhill Road at around 9.10am last Thursday, Northern Ireland Electricity (NUE) has confirmed. A contractor was working at a housing develo
07/09/2015
Gaelectric has raised an additional €28 million in debt financing from Proventus Capital Partners II AB (Proventus). The funds will be applied in the continued rollout of Gaelectric's portfolio of wind energy projects in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Henrik Bjerklin, Investment Di
07/09/2015
Cork based DP Energy is appealing to landowners across Ireland for sites on which large-scale solar power schemes could be installed. The firm would like to build a clear picture of potentially available parcels of land of about 25 acres or more on which solar parks could be installed. Managing di
07/09/2015
A L'Derry tyre recycler has been ordered to pay a confiscation order after being convicted on four counts under the Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997. Mr James Joseph Heaney, 46, from Spruce Meadows, was ordered to pay £50,000, within three months, under the Proceeds of Cr
04/09/2015
SSE Airtricity has announced a 10% cut in gas prices for customers living in the Greater Belfast area. The Consumer Council has welcomed the price reduction and said average household's will see a £58 annual drop in their gas bills. Richard Williams, Head of Energy at the Consumer Council ,said: "
04/09/2015
The announcement that a £4 million extension of funding has been allocated for structural maintenance work to be carried out until the end of October has been welcomed by the UUP. The party's Regional Development spokesperson, Adrian Cochrane-Watson MLA, said it will provide some relief to the cons
04/09/2015
A man from County Antrim has been given a suspended sentence for waste offences at Coleraine Magistrates' Court today. Mr Jonathan Stevenson from Portrush was given two four month sentences (suspended for three years). Mr Stevenson was also ordered to pay a compensation order of £826. The charges
04/09/2015
A programme of pipelaying work has started in Ballymartin, Co Down. The work is part of a £1.5 million investment to provide new wastewater infrastructure for the local community. The work involves the laying of around 1800m of new pumping main between the recently constructed pumping station in B
04/09/2015
All vacant housing units in Dublin will be made available to homeless families by the end of 2015, the Environment Minister has confirmed. Dublin City Councillors secured an agreement with Minister Alan Kelly at a scheduled meeting on Thursday. There are currently 950 vacant housing units in the c
04/09/2015
Two Irish firms have signed contracts in France valued at over €5 million, according to Enterprise Ireland. Tricel in Co Kerry and Wood Energy Solutions in Co Tipperary announced contracts totalling over €5m with French companies at a Business Breakfast in Lyon. Tricel signed a contract with Rhone
03/09/2015
Sinn Féin is calling for rent controls to be introduced for students. Sinn Féin Councillor Cathleen Carney Boud said the lack of student housing shows the depth of the housing crisis overall. Cllr Carney Boud said: "There are 16,000 students flocking to Dublin City University (DCU) and St Patrick
03/09/2015
Irish firm Vayu Energy has signed a contract, worth €250,000 per annum, to supply gas and electricity to The Teeling Whiskey Company. The agreement will see Vayu supply Teeling Whiskey with natural gas and 100% green electricity to meet the year-round energy requirements for its newly opened distil
03/09/2015
Construction work has been completed on a €3.5 million road upgrade in Dublin. The project, on the Drumcondra Road Upper, removes a pinch point and ensures continuous bus lanes are provided at that point. A significant restriction on bus movements existed directly adjacent to the Cat and Cage pub a
03/09/2015
Changes to the Building Control Regulations have been welcomed by Fine Gael. The amendment came into effect on 01 September. Senator for Cork North Central, Colm Burke, said homeowners will however, still have to demonstrate full compliance with building regulations. Mr Burke said: "While this am
03/09/2015
£4 million of extended funding has been secured to carry out essential roadworks throughout Northern Ireland. The funding will be used for resurfacing parts of the road network where the need is greatest. Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy said: "The steps I am taking will allow my Depart
03/09/2015
Environment Minister Alan Kelly is to meet with councillors to discuss the homelessness crisis in Dublin. It follows repeated demands from the Fianna Fáil Leader on the Council, Paul McAuliffe, after it emerged that Dublin City Council was being left with an €18.5m funding deficit for homeless serv
02/09/2015
A new whiskey distillery and visitor centre is to be developed in Drogheda. The €20m facility in the heart of Boyne Valley will include a whiskey distillery, Boyne Brewhouse craft brewery and taproom, an architecturally designed visitor centre which will host distillery and brewery tours, a 120-sea
02/09/2015
NI firm Lagan Construction Group and John Sisk & Son have been appointed as Joint Venture (JV) contractors for the North Tyneside Coast Road improvement scheme. The Highways England contract is part of a record £15bn investment by the Government in road improvements over the next six years with wor
02/09/2015
The demand for student accommodation outstrips supply in certain areas and will continue to do so in the coming years, according to the Minister for Education & Skills, Jan O’Sullivan TD. The Minister made the comments following the publication of the Report on Student Accommodation: Demand & Suppl
02/09/2015
Two community groups in Fermanagh have secured funding for the Department of Environment's (DOE) Challenge Fund. The funding has been allocated to Lough Erne Wildfowlers Council and Devenish Partnership Forum. Lough Erne Wildfowlers Council's project will see a breeding wader project on Boa Island
02/09/2015
New regulations to ease the application of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 9 of 2014) for single dwellings and for domestic extensions come into force today, 02 September. Paudie Coffey, TD, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Gov
02/09/2015
Plans to keep the Waterfront and Ulster Halls in Belfast under the direct management of the Belfast City Council (BCC) have been turned down. Sinn Féin Councillor Niall Ó Donnghaile said he was disappointed with the decision. Councillor Ó Donnghaile said: "Sinn Féin proposed new management arrange
02/09/2015
Sinn Féin has slammed the government for spending an extra £500m to upgrade a nuclear marine base. MLA Barry McElduff described it as "grotesque". Mr McElduff said: "George Osborne has repeatedly claimed there is no more money to pay for protections for the most vulnerable people in our society an
01/09/2015
Naas has been named the cleanest town in County Kildare. The Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) results released revealed the town finished 12th in the overall national rankings. Naas Mayor Cllr James Lawless said was delighted with the results. Mr Lawless said: "This result will be another pos
01/09/2015
A total of 29 community energy initiatives in Ireland have been awarded grants worth a total of €18.6 million. The schemes will improve the energy efficiency of 2,435 homes and 400 public, private and community buildings. They are also expected to deliver lifetime energy savings of €140 million in
01/09/2015
A new smart thermostat has been launched by Bord Gáis Energy. The thermostat, named Hive Active Heating, allows households to control home heating and hot water via an app available on smartphones, tablets or laptops. The thermostat works with a home's existing gas heating system and includes a hu
01/09/2015
The Minister for the Environment has been called to address an anomaly which has led to a rise in council rents for families who have had their income cut under changes to the One Parent Family Payment (OPFP) Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD made the call after he was contacted by som
01/09/2015
St Ronan’s College in Lurgan has officially opened. The Co-educational 11-18 voluntary grammar school is an amalgamation of St Mary's High School, St Paul's Junior High School and St Michael's Grammar School Lurgan, following the approval of a development proposal in February 2014. Education Minis
01/09/2015
A new Welding Academy in Northern Ireland has launched. The Academy, under the Department's Assured Skills initiative, will provide ten individuals with the skills and experience required to take up new opportunities in the engineering sector with SDC Trailers (SDC), Magherafelt and MDF Engineering
01/09/2015
Tens of thousands of people took to Dublin to attend the Right2Water rally on Saturday. Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD said the level of anger has not gone away and it will remain a huge issue for the budget and the next General Election. Deputy McDonald said: "The government needs t
01/09/2015
Mr Gareth Graham has been called to appear before the Finance Committee inquiry into the sale of NAMA's northern portfolio. Sinn Féin MLA and Finance Committee chair Daithí McKay welcomed the announcement and said it is important that we get answers to the questions of exactly what happened and the
