Civil & Construction - March 23

IRELAND CONTINUES TO ATTRACT PHARMA MULTINATIONALS

JONES ENGINEERING - Sometimes The Best Things Are Hidden

CIS - Pharmaceutical Sector Construction Activity

JOHN SISK & SON - Sisk Selected To Develop One Opera ENGINEER

As a company, from the top down, John Paul Construction believes in fostering and building strong relationships. We do this by earning trust. Trust that the job will be done. Trust that it will be done safely. Trust that it will be done expertly. And trust that it will be done to the highest standard.

Go Further | Build Smarter

When the road ahead is unclear, you turn to the people you can trust.

Your Trusted Bond Advisor.

CIVIL AND CONSTRUCTION IRELAND

Email: info@civilandconstruction.ie

Civil and Construction Ireland 2023

Welcome to our latest issue of Civil and Construction magazine. Ireland’s pharmaceutical sector is known around the world for its innovative excellence and strong workforce. As a result of their leadership, companies such as Abbott, Styker, Eli Lilly and Pfizer, among others, have continued to invest in this area of the Irish industrial sector. Because of the nature of this industry, it generates both permanent local jobs with ongoing government support and exposure and construction jobs on large-scale sites. The industry has a significant economic impact, employing over 30,000 people directly and accounting for more than half of all goods exports by value. Furthermore, over the last decade, the sector has invested over €10bn in Ireland, the majority of which has gone into new or expanded manufacturing facilities.

Pfizer Inc. has announced its intent to invest more than €1.2 billion capital investment in its Grange Castle, Dublin manufacturing site. The investment, which is Pfizer’s biggest expansion investment to date in Ireland, will see a new facility built on the site premises and will double the capacity for biological drug substance manufacturing at the facility. It is anticipated that there will be a further 400-500 roles added, bringing the total number of Pfizer employees in Ireland to approximately 5,500. The investment and the roles being created will significantly expand manufacturing and laboratory capacity and add new technologies to help ensure Pfizer is ready to support the next wave of medical innovations. The project is currently in preliminary design phase with construction expected to commence onsite in 2024 and the new facility due for completion in 2027.

Kirby Group Engineering has always been committed to bringing value to its clients through innovation, collaboration and problem solving. The company’s project delivery approach in the pharma, life sciences and med-tech sector is no exception. It involves early engagement with all the stakeholders to bring about the utmost understanding of client needs and to ensure that an end product is second to none. Kirby has partnered through the years with numerous clients in the pharmaceutical sector and sees a bright future ahead with the continuation of investment in the sector in Ireland. Working within the pharmaceutical sector is a major part of Kirby’s M&E output with an advanced level of multi-industry collaboration at play on every project. Significant technological advances in recent years have meant that about 40% of Kirby’s construction work on pharmaceutical plants is off-site, which generates efficiencies and brings enhanced control over health and safety measures.

For all advertising and marketing queries, contact on email: info@civilandconstruction.ie

Graphic Design: Colin Brennan

Advertising Sales: darren@civilandconstruction.ie

We have a lot of insightful articles in this issue along with news, appointments and a great new car review in the Toyota Hilux Invincible so flick forward for all of that great content. Enjoy the read.

James Kelly Editor Civil and Construction Ireland

NEWS

Latest news from the civil and construction industry.

JONES ENGINEERING

Sometimes the best things are hidden.

BREEDON

Every challenge, offers an opportunity.

PIPELIFE

Prefabricated underfloor heating – the future of underfloor is here!

TOYOTA HILUX INVINCIBLE

A tough off-roading vehicle but also a daily driver

GRANT ENGINEERING

Grant turns up the heat for less with its Aerona3 and Uflex underfloor heating duo

GREEN COUNCIL IRELAND

Ireland’s home performance index: a certification for sustainable and quality homes.

CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION SERVICES

Pharmaceutical sector construction activity.

SURETY BONDS

The interest rate tightrope.

KIRBY GROUP ENGINEERING

Always committed to bringing value.

INDUSTRY TRAINING SERVICES

Portadown-based industry training services opens for business in Dublin.

ONE OPERA SQUARE

Sisk selected to develop One Opera Square.

Kingspan Light + Air Opens the Daylight Centre of Excellence

Kingspan Light + Air are proud to celebrate the opening of our new Daylight Centre of Excellence. Located in Kingspan’s hometown of Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Ireland, the €22.3million manufacturing facility is an important investment in ensuring an efficient and effective supply chain for our customers and a permanent location for our global offices— whilst the building itself exemplifies what can be achieved with Kingspan solutions.

Covering 7,000 m2, the facility features five cutting-edge polycarbonate extrusion lines with the capability to produce 15,000 tonnes of product per year. This gives us complete control over the quality and availability of our polycarbonate material, allowing us to produce high volumes of sheeting very efficiently to meet our customers’ needs and deadlines.

In addition to being used to create some of our best-selling products, such as Kingspan Day-Lite Kapture and UniQuad 120, the polycarbonate sheeting we produce is also used by our sister companies and sister divisions, other manufacturers and customers. Our new KILON solid and Kilon Multiwall (remove opal) Polycarbonate ranges are complemented by our KISAN solid Styrene-Acrylonitrile range of translucent sheets, they are available in a variety of lengths and widths, ready to be supplied to third parties who can use them to create all kinds of end-uses such

as screening, visors, guards, safety glazing, specialist roofing products, pool covers, industrial gates and packaging and containers.

The building itself uses a selection of Kingspan Insulated Panels and Kingspan Light + Air products to form a highly efficient building envelope. All the interior spaces, from the factory floor to the office areas, are flooded with natural daylight and ventilation, making it a safe and comfortable environment for our staff and helping us to reduce our energy demand from electrical systems.

The facility is operated under a management system which is certified to ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems, ISO 14001: Environmental Management and everything is produced in line with Kingspan’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Through Kingspan’s ten-year Planet Passionate initiative, we are working to ensure both the products we create, and how we make them, have a positive impact on the world around us.

In addition to being highly durable and long lasting, polycarbonate itself is 100% recyclable at end of life and can be remanufactured to create a range of new products with no loss of material quality. This means that 100% of rejected product can be recycled back into the production process, helping to reduce waste to landfill.

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Pfizer announces €1.2 billion investment and hundreds of jobs at Grange Castle site

Pfizer Inc. has announced its intent to invest more than €1.2 billion capital investment in its Grange Castle, Dublin manufacturing site. The investment, which is Pfizer’s biggest expansion investment to date in Ireland, will see a new facility built on the site premises and will double the capacity for biological drug substance manufacturing at the facility. It is anticipated that there will be a further 400-500 roles added, bringing the total number of Pfizer employees in Ireland to approximately 5,500.

The investment and the roles being created will significantly expand manufacturing and laboratory capacity and add new technologies to help ensure Pfizer is ready to support the next wave of medical innovations. The project is currently in preliminary design phase with construction expected to commence onsite in 2024 and the new facility due for completion in 2027. The investment will ensure that Pfizer has capacity for licensed and pipeline products in oncology, rare disease, inflammation & immunology and internal medicines.

This announcement follows a €40 million investment in the site last year when the Grange Castle facility was brought onto the Global Pfizer COVID-19 manufacturing network. Grange Castle as well as Pfizer’s other manufacturing sites in Newbridge, Co. Kildare and Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork manufacture medicines and vaccines in the areas of arthritis,

inflammation, cancer, anti-infectives, haemophilia, pain and stroke.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin commented: “This is a really significant investment and jobs announcement by Pfizer –its biggest ever expansion in Ireland – and a considerable vote of confidence in the talent of our workforce, and our economy. Pfizer has played an instrumental role during the pandemic. It is pleasing to see just how much scientific progress has been made over the last number of years, and I have no doubt that Ireland will continue to be at the forefront of scientific innovation. I wish all the team at Pfizer here in Ireland continued success as they work towards improving the lives of patients in Ireland and beyond.”

Mike McDermott, Chief Global Supply Officer, Executive Vice President, Pfizer said: “We are very pleased about today’s announcement, as it significantly strengthens our operations in Ireland, where we have three high-performing and strategic manufacturing sites. Grange Castle has played a critical role in our global COVID-19 vaccine network, and this investment for non-COVID licensed and pipeline products, will help to further expand the site’s broad and robust capabilities. As this investment demonstrates, we continue to invest in our global manufacturing infrastructure to strive to bring much-needed medicines and vaccines to patients, around the world, and to deliver the next scientific breakthroughs.”

Siemens Healthineers launches Laboratory equipment R&D centre in Swords, Ireland to explore breakthrough healthcare innovations

Siemens Healthineers has announced the launch of a Centre of Excellence for Immunoassay Instrument Research and Development (R&D) in Swords, Ireland.

The new Centre will focus on unlocking breakthrough innovations in laboratory instruments used to detect infectious diseases, cancer and blood disorders. The existing manufacturing and engineering site, which supplies medical diagnostic equipment globally, will receive a multi-million-euro investment from Siemens Healthineers. This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. The investment will create additional jobs and enable clinicians to optimise patient care by bringing new levels of precision, efficiency and reliability to the diagnostic laboratories that serve them.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD states: “Congratulations to Siemens Healthineers on the launch of their Centre of Excellence for Immunoassay Instrument Research and Development. This is a significant expansion with the creation of 100 new jobs, the majority of which will be highly skilled, providing great opportunities for engineers. This new Centre is testament to Ireland’s strong reputation for R&D. Exciting new technology like that which will be developed in Swords, can make a real difference to people’s lives, to patient outcomes and to healthcare systems globally. I wish the team at Siemens Healthineers the very best for many successful years and continued growth in Ireland.”

This significant investment by Siemens Healthineers will span multiple years and create 100 new jobs with 65 of those to be high-level engineering roles specialising in artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, systems engineering and data science. This will more than double the existing engineering team and transform the site into an innovation hub, growing knowledge, providing new training opportunities and developing a pool of expertise in immunoassay technology.

The Centre will push the boundaries of science and engineering. Improvements to existing diagnostic techniques will enhance disease detection capabilities with the goal of delivering faster, higher precision results with improved patient insights. This will help to meet the extremely high throughput and complex needs of hospitals and laboratories in Ireland and globally.

“The investment at Swords will build on our existing expertise in healthcare manufacturing, adding a critical research and development focus,” states Dr Dennis Gilbert, Head of R&D for Siemens Healthineers Diagnostics. “Partnering with IDA has enabled us to move forward in ways that would not have otherwise been feasible and will allow us to pioneer breakthroughs in healthcare, helping hospitals and laboratories across the globe to diagnose disease more effectively and efficiently.”

“This is an exciting opportunity for us to create an entrepreneurial research environment, while leveraging the strength and breadth of all that Siemens Healthineers has to offer,” states Fred O’Brien, VP of Manufacturing and Managing Director of Swords for Siemens Healthineers. “It highlights the calibre of the existing team and with this investment we will create a hub of skilled and experienced engineers and researchers, broadening the scope of careers in the local area.”

‘’Today’s investment announcement by Siemens Healthineers is terrific news and demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to Ireland, where it’s had a presence in Dublin for 57 years,” states Mary Buckley, Interim CEO of IDA Ireland. “We welcome the company’s plans to create 100 new jobs across research and development and we wish continued success for Siemens Healthineers.”

Siemens Healthineers has been active in Swords supplying medical diagnostic equipment to hospitals and laboratories since 1966. The site manufactures haematology and immunoassay analysers and supports the continuous innovation of current and new products and the development of laboratory automation software, exported to more than 50 countries across all continents. Career opportunities available at Swords, Ireland will be advertised on the Siemens Healthineers recruitment portal.

SOMETIMES THE BEST THINGS ARE HIDDEN

One of the interesting aspects of underground drainage projects is the fact that most of the works will not only be covered by earth, stone and concrete, they will also have an entire facility built on top of them. It is critical that all systems are installed to the highest quality standards with no room for error.

We understand the complexity of design and installation for demanding double containment applications. We typically install double containment drains, or secondary containment drains, to help manage high temperature or corrosive waste, in pharmaceutical and industrial facilities. Double containment piping systems are used

in conjunction with trench drains, catch basins, floor gullies (single & double contained) and other drainage systems components, all subject to high or fluctuating temperature. We install different types including Double Contained Stainless Steel Drainage, Single Contained Stainless Steel Drainage, Single Contained PVC Drainage and Double Contained RFP (Reinforced Fibreglass Pipework) Drainage.

Safety and environmental concerns are top priorities we share with our Clients. Reduction of emissions, energy conservation and prevention of ground water contamination are some of the areas we can directly impact to ensure we are working sustainably. Double

Our ethos of “right first time” applies to every project we complete but it’s of particular importance when we are working on underground drainage for our pharmaceutical and industrial clients.

contained drains are safer for the environment, protecting the earth around them. They ensure that should a leak occur, people, equipment and valuable property will be protected from possible harm. This is especially important in our specialist areas of major industrial and pharmaceutical underground drainage projects.

On most of our underground drainage projects we take on the Design Assistance Role, which involves completion of the design to IFC from 30-60%, as well as the fabrication and installation of the full underground drainage scope. The planning and design stage on these projects can be very intensive. For example, on our BMS LSCC Project the planning and design stage commenced only 4 weeks before the 12 week overall installation schedule for the underground section of the scope. The project required the production of 474Nr Isometric drawings from our inhouse BIM design team, which in turn fed 3 workshops working 6 days per week in order to meet the fabrication requirements. Key to success was the overlap of design, fabrication and installation to ensure that the overall 12 week site installation could be achieved.

Installation is the next step and there is no let-up in

intensity. One of our projects required a 3-week site nightshift on a particularly complex portion of the scope to meet milestone dates and in addition peak onsite manpower reached 55 to support this. At the installation stage, coordination with the Civil contractor who excavates and backfills the trenches is key to achieving the project completion on schedule. We have a proven history of working alongside other contractors and believe that collaboration and teamwork are essential components to ensure delivery of successful projects.

Relationships are at the heart of our business and this approach results in repeat work with existing clients. We have undertaken underground projects for clients including Pfizer, BMS, MSD, Diageo, Wuxi Biologics, Fujifilm Diosynth and Leo Pharma.

With continued investment and significant presence that the pharmaceutical industry has in Ireland, it will only lead to further growth and new jobs being created. Due to continued expansion, Jones Engineering are recruiting a range of positions across Ireland and Europe which can be viewed on their website: www.joneseng.com

Erisbeg Acquires Majority Stake In ORS

ORS is delighted to announce Erisbeg, an Irish-owned investment firm, has acquired a majority stake in the company to support the next phase of its development. ORS is one of Ireland’s leading multidisciplinary building consultancies, headquartered in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. The investment will support the company to grow organically and through acquisition and will see ORS hire over 150 new positions nationwide over the next three years.

Established in 1991 by Paul O’Reilly and Finbarr Stuart and currently led by John Brennan, ORS has expanded significantly in recent years due to its award-winning employee care initiatives and people-centric culture. John Brennan and the Board of Directors will continue to lead the business over the next phase of its development. This expansion will include a new office base in Cork in addition to its six office locations spread across the country.

John Brennan, ORS Partner and MD, commented, “We are truly excited about partnering with the Erisbeg team. At ORS, our culture is at the core of everything we do. Finding a partner that valued this approach was very important to us. We look forward to working with the Erisbeg

team on the next phase of our expansion.”

Finbarr Stuart, ORS Partner, added, “From our initial discussions with Erisbeg, it was evident that they shared our core values and vision to take ORS to the next stage of growth and development. We are fortunate to have a skilled and vibrant workforce with the ability and ambition to drive the company towards new and exciting horizons.”

Andrew Murphy, an Erisbeg Partner, stated, “From the first time we were introduced to ORS and its management, we were struck by the quality of the business. Fundamentally the strength of the management team and the depth of engineering expertise across the business was striking and gives us great confidence in the ability of ORS to deliver strong growth both organically and through acquisition.”

Erisbeg I LP invests in Irish SMEs with ambitious management teams with a strategy to grow their business organically in Ireland and internationally. This is the fourth transaction that Erisbeg has completed in this calendar year. ORS will add to Erisbeg I LPs compliance platform. This is the first investment by Erisbeg into construction and building consultancy.

EVERY CHALLENGE, OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY

Andrew Poots Celebrates 40 years at Breedon

In a workplace where an average person is now expected to have moved jobs and changed employers many times over the course of their career, it’s refreshing to hear that to succeed in business and in life it’s not always necessary to move jobs every few years. Sometimes staying the course and striving for continual improvement will bring its own rewards. Andrew (Andy) Poots is a shining example of this.

In January 1983, with the help of a family member who worked for the Lagan Group, Andy, at the age of 15 joined the Lagan family business who were based in Belfast at that time (Lagan Group acquired by Breedon

in 2018). Like most 15-year-olds, he started at the bottom of the ladder, but he had the willingness to learn and he possessed an enquiring mind. Over the years Andy acquired the skills and experience a modern-day executive needed to have at their disposal to succeed. Andy credits the many mentors and influencers he has had the privilege to work with and observe over the years at close quarters, in addition to his own inbuilt resilience and self-belief. Earlier this month, the Breedon Group was delighted to acknowledge Andy’s contribution to the business spanning 40 years and rewarded him for his service, and ongoing contribution to the business.

Early Years

Andy’s first Job with the company was pumping cement off the various boats that came into Belfast harbour. In between boats arriving, Andy also worked in the dispatch office on administration. At this time the Lagan group did not have its own cement manufacturing plant and had to import all its cement requirements. Once the Lagan group built its own cement plant in Ireland and started to ship cement to the United Kingdom, Andy’s role changed. He relocated to Great Britain to oversee the pumping of cement from Lagan vessels into various terminals around the country. Eventually, Andy settled in Glasgow for several years and focussed on the terminal Lagan had established and enjoyed his time in that part of the World. In 1994, Andy was offered the opportunity to move back to his native Belfast and work at the new Tile business that was about to open. Andy joined the tile business as Night Shift Supervisor and quickly proved his worth and was promoted to Production Manager, before eventually becoming Operations Manager for the tile business, a role he still holds today. Away from work, life also changed for Andy in 2001, where he met his now wife Dawn and have two children, Connor and Erin, aged 18 and 16 respectively.

We recently sat down with Andy to discuss the changes he has seen across the business over the past 40 years.

The Tile Factory

Andy described how initially the plant was very small and only produced 4 million tiles per year. These were

sold predominantly around Belfast and its suburbs. Over the years, demand for roof tiles grew and to this day Breedon Roof Tile has expanded into many locations and a wide range of customers across the Island of Ireland. Investment went into the plant to meet demand and capacity increased to 12 million tiles per year. In Andy’s time, the plant has become more automated, as a result of investment into greater Information Technology systems for it’s people and the factory itself.

The financial crash of 2009-2010 that resulted in a severe downturn in demand and a property crash with many builders going out of business was a huge challenge for the tile business. Andy recalls that across the whole of Ireland where estates of finished and partially finished houses with no likelihood of buyers being found in the short term. Demand for tiles and his manufacturing team reduced to a trickle.

Andy then outlined one of his core beliefs that every challenge, offers an opportunity and with this you must apply all the brainpower within your organisation and be willing to change. This point is proven to be true, and to meet the challenge Lagan decided to target the GB market and develop its product offering to suit the requirements of this new customer base, we invested in the right people who were based in GB. Initially, it was difficult but over the years we established our brand, developed a loyal customer base who now account for a big proportion of all the tiles we sell. Indeed, to meet this demand going forward Andy is delighted that Breedon are investing over £6million to build an ultra-modern tile plant, comparable if not better than the most modern plants located anywhere in UK.

People

Andy believes that people are still the most important asset any business has. Surrounding yourself with not only good people who have the right skill set but it is also imperative to work with a team with the attitude to strive to improve. Andy also believes that in this line of work, people must have a collaborative manor. Andy states that when recruiting, attitude and a willingness to learn are the main attributes to look for in a candidate. If you find these qualities, you can train skills and develop the individual.

Andy has been very fortunate to have worked for and with some great colleagues over the years and this has helped him develop professionally and build a great network of contacts he knows he can access at any time if he faces a challenge. Plus, Andy has a vast collection of amusing stories he is happy to recall, involving the people he has encountered over his 40 years – that is for another day.

The Industry

Andy has observed that the industry has changed considerably during his career. Investment has come into the industry and has driven R&D and production to become more automated as previously mentioned. Optical eye technology will change how modern plants operate further. Businesses that fail to invest will struggle to survive in a time when all manufacturing costs continue to increase. Modern plants must be lean and efficient in their consumption of resources. To work

in operations today managers must be multi skilled as previously stated, with a high level of technology skills. You must conserve natural resources and be a good custodian of your local environment, and work with the local community. But remember people are your biggest resource, developing your team and putting in health, safety and wellbeing measures are critical. Making sure the team comes into work fit and healthy and returns home in the same condition is important to Andy.

What Does The Future Look Like?

Andy is excited about the future for Breedon Roof Tile and his colleagues. Andy is playing a leading role in the construction of a brand-new manufacturing plant adjacent to the existing production facility in Northern Ireland. The plant will allow the company to more than double its production capacity, expand its existing product range, and going forward allow the business to develop a solar tile. At Breedon, our product range has been designed to meet our customer’s needs, so this solar offering will assist those with new changes to planning laws, and the target of being in a zero-carbon economy. Andy believes that in future years over 20% of all tiles sold in the UK are likely to be solar.

Andy is delighted with the investment of over £6million in a new tile factory, and states it’s great for the employees and just as good for the local area, our supply partners, and customers alike. Looking back at how a 15-year-old boy got started in this industry, it’s fair to say, he has come a long way.

WHEN STRENGTH MATTERS...

Breedon Roof Tile (part of Breedon Group) manufacture a range of high quality, high strength concrete roof tile profiles in a variety of colours. Our product range has been designed to meet your needs – manufactured to the highest standards, Breedon Roof Tiles are extremely strong and durable, ensuring a roof that will last.

Our roof tiles and ridge tiles come in a variety of profiles and colours, and we offer an extensive collection of accessories that complement our range, including dry ridge, dry verge and ventilation systems.

PREFABRICATED UNDERFLOOR HEATING – THE FUTURE OF UNDERFLOOR IS HERE!

Listening to the feedback from investors, designers and installers, Pipelife has taken the next step by adding prefabricated underfloor heating to the product portfolio. Pipelife’s Ireland’s Technical Manager Michael Geary explains the solution and the advantages it offers throughout the construction process.

What Is Prefabricated Underfloor Heating By Pipelife?

Pipelife’s prefabricated underfloor heating solutions entail a comprehensive service that covers everything from the design to the assembly and delivery of underfloor heating systems. The prefabricated mats and prefab manifold cabinets boast exactly the same customizability and benefits as standard hydronic underfloor heating products while speeding up the installation process 3-6 times. The solution is particularly advantageous for large-scale building projects, such as residential complexes, row houses, hospitals, hotels and nursing homes.

Combining End-to-end Service With Prefab

Intended for domestic heating installers of boilers or Air to Water Heat Pumps either with Underfloor Heating experience or those wishing to know more about Pipelife underfloor heating systems. This training course covers the basic principles of underfloor heating and the system design considerations, as well as full details of the Pipelife systems, their installation, filling, pressure testing and commissioning. Also included are full details of the Pipelife UFH control system, the options, operation, installation and set-up.

Achieving Higher Installation Efficiency And Reliability

Construction projects are frequently delivered late and exceed their original budget. Prefabrication allows avoiding unplanned costs while taking significantly less time than traditional on-site construction.

If installing standard underfloor heating in a room of 20 m2 typically takes 20-30 minutes, prefabrication allows completing the same task in just 5-7 minutes — offering major gains for contractors as well as investors.

Furthermore, Pipelife’s prefabricated mats and manifolds are assembled in factory-controlled environments by trained professionals using only top-quality materials. The process eliminates risks of typical installation errors, such as deviations from the drawing plan or incorrect connections.

This way, prefabrication not only allows achieving higher reliability and excellent service life of the installed heating system but can also help optimize supervision on-site.

“As the whole system is produced, preassembled and delivered by a single supplier, the reliability from the technical standpoint is very high — facilitating and speeding up the commissioning,” explains Geary.

Offering Full Design Support

Underfloor heating systems are known for their long, maintenance-free service life. If functionality issues arise, they often can be traced back to poor design. The optimal heat output of each system must be carefully calculated and depends on multiple factors, such as the insulation and age of the building, heating zones desired, heat sources available, and even the selected floor finish.

Underfloor heating combines high comfort levels, low maintenance and excellent energy efficiency — for these reasons, such systems have become popular in many European countries.

As designing heating systems requires in-depth expertise and is time-consuming, Pipelife offers full design support as part of the solution. With a design team that has more than a decade of design experience and in-depth industry background, almost 300 design projects were completed last year alone.

The service saves project designers hours of tedious work. A fully tailored heating system design, considering the unique conditions and requirements of the particular project, is prepared and sent to the customer in just a few days.

“This way, we can ensure the best technical solution for our clients while saving time for project designers — who can focus on other tasks or even take on more projects,” sums up Geary. “As time pressure in the building sector keeps increasing, just as expectations of project safety and quality, such a service is a win-win solution.”

Offering Full Design Support

Underfloor heating systems are known for their long, maintenance-free service life. If functionality issues arise, they often can be traced back to poor design. The optimal heat output of each system must be carefully calculated and depends on multiple factors, such as the insulation and age of the building, heating zones desired, heat sources available, and even the selected floor finish.

As designing heating systems requires in-depth expertise and is time-consuming, Pipelife offers full design support as part of the solution. With a design team that has more than a decade of design experience and in-depth industry background, almost 300 design projects were completed last year alone.

The service saves project designers hours of tedious work. A fully tailored heating system design, considering the unique conditions and requirements of the particular project, is prepared and sent to the customer in just a few days.

“This way, we can ensure the best technical solution for our clients while saving time for project designers — who

can focus on other tasks or even take on more projects,” sums up Geary. “As time pressure in the building sector keeps increasing, just as expectations of project safety and quality, such a service is a win-win solution.”

New Opportunities For Installers

Reports show an acutely growing shortage of skilled workers in the EU, slowing down the completion of the started projects and, if unresolved, impeding future growth of the construction sector.

Prefabricated products can be installed in a shorter time and by fewer people, compensating for the lack of highprofile installers many countries in Europe are struggling with.

“Nowadays, installers are typically paid either per project completed or per square meter installed. As the demand for qualified installers is high, they often have to decline requests. Our solutions enable installers to accept more projects as they can complete their tasks faster,” explains Geary.

The new prefabricated underfloor heating solutions do not eliminate the need for skilled construction workers onsite, as their expertise is still required to carry out specific tasks like connecting the mats to a manifold and pressure testing.

“Our prefabricated underfloor heating is tailored to each project; these are not generic products that will be available in depot stores,” Geary asserts. “The installation process is faster and simpler compared to standard underfloor heating systems, but it requires supervision and assistance from qualified specialists.”

Up To 30% Higher Cost Efficiency

As construction material costs keep rising, the profit margins for investors and contractors have eroded over the last few years. Prefabrication is a way to address the inefficiencies that standard construction entails and minimize material waste, helping alleviate the cost increases.

The data from already commissioned prefabricated hydronic underfloor heating projects in the Netherlands, Bulgaria and Serbia show impressive cost-efficiency improvements compared to traditional underfloor heating systems.

“Considering the time savings and efficiency gains throughout each step of construction, the overall cost savings are 20-30%,” says Geary. “Our completed prefab projects clearly show how stepping away from the standard approach can open up new opportunities in the buildings sector.”

Please contact us at Ireland@pipelife.com, contact us on 021 4884700 or visit our website www.pipelife.ie

Since 1968, Toyota’s shifted more than 18 million of these Hilux workhorses to everyone from farmers to power line workers. It’s a Dakar Rally winner too. The Toyota Hilux is one of the most famous names in the pick-up world, and it’s earned this fame for being tough and reliable even in the harshest conditions around the globe.

The Double Cab version we drove came in Oxide Bronze paint. The Double Cab brings the option to use it for work and family life at the same time. This latest version features improved comfort and tech along with more power available in the 2.8l offering which we drove. For this model year, the Hilux has a new 2.8-litre diesel engine with an increase of 54 hp and an extra 100 Nm of torque. Smart phone integration is now standard. There have been suspension improvements for better on-road comfort and handling, and improved off-roading with lower engine idle and a new auto limited slip differential. More basic versions of the Hilux use a 2.4-litre diesel engine with manual transmission - with single cab from €32,060 and double cab from €39,105. The Invincible model we drove came with 18” alloy wheels, heated seats, LED headlights and fog lights along with side steps. As a pick-up truck and a commercial vehicle, the Hilux’s most important trait is how much it can carry and pull. The Hilux’s load bay length varies from 1,525mm in the double cab model to 2,315mm in the single cab. That’s pretty much on a par with rivals, but it’s width where the Hilux has made great strides.The load area on all models is a full 130mm wider than before.

Our Hilux as mentioned was powered with Toyota’s 2.8L turbodiesel engine, producing 204hp of power and 500Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination allows for a tow rating of 3500kg braked, 750kg unbraked, which is consistent for the entire diesel Hilux range and our invincible test model had a 1 tonne payload. It also wouldn’t be a Hilux without a list of off-roading goodies. The new range includes a Rear Differential Lock, Rear Auto Limited Slip Differential, Down-hill Assist Control and an Automatic Disconnecting Front Differential, plus the usual gearing ratios of 2H – 4H and 4L controlled via switch knob.

The driving experience is edging closer to that of an SUV, and the interior goes some way to matching a family SUV. If you haven’t sat in Double Cab Toyota Hilux I can assure you it is a considerably less rough and ready place to be than older pick-up models you might remember from your youth. The design, layout and material finish is of real upmarket quality. It feels well-built and is a comfortable place to be, with this Invincible model getting leather seats/front heated, parking sensors, automatic air conditioning and 8” touchscreen. In the Double Cab model I drove, the Toyota Hilux’s cabin is roomy enough for tall adults in the back.

The engines use some advanced new tech to boost efficiency and performance, and I’d be very confident this new Toyota Hilux will be as reliable long-term as the old-tech diesel units that came before it. The new engine is brilliant,

Words: Anthony Kelly Pics: Webpress

TOYOTA HILUX INVINCIBLE

A tough off-roading vehicle but also a daily driver

with noticeably improved refinement and a better torque delivery at the low end of the rev range. This pick-up handles main roads and back roads with potholes and imperfections very well aided by a clever ‘Pitch and Bounce Control’ system that automatically adjusts engine torque to suit the road surface. With a height of 60mm off the ground and a larger approach angle, the Toyota Hilux can handle rocky surfaces with ease. There is also Hill Descent Control, an electronic system that helps prevent the Hilux from skidding when descending a steep hill, so that muddy, uneven hills aren’t too difficult. In general, once you’re on the go, you’ll find the Toyota Hilux relatively easy to drive. The controls are very light and the six-speed automatic gearbox is smooth and easy to use. It runs well in traffic and when cruising motorways.

Our Hilux came equipped with 7 airbags, plus Toyota’s Safety Sense (TSS) package. This includes Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Alert with Yaw Assist and Vehicle Sway Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Road Sign Assist. Other safety items include Drive Start Control, Trailer Sway Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal and a Reverse Camera.

Conclusion

The Toyota Hilux Invincible offers a premium, capable, and practical pick-up that is not only good for off-roading and navigating through difficult terrains, but is as good if used as a daily commuter. It will no doubt keep buyers happy with its long-term reliability and ownership experience.

Model

SOMETIMES THE BEST THINGS ARE HIDDEN

One of the interesting aspects of our underground drainage projects is the fact that most of the works will not only be covered by earth, stone and concrete, they will also have an entire facility built on top of them, leaving no room for error.

GRANT TURNS UP THE HEAT FOR LESS WITH ITS AERONA3 AND UFLEX UNDERFLOOR HEATING DUO

Renowned for its reliable, innovative portfolio of sustainable heating technologies, Grant’s Aerona3 R32 air to water heat pumps and Uflex underfloor heating are quickly becoming the heating duo of choice for new build homes throughout Ireland.

Focused on maximising efficiencies and reducing carbon emissions, Grant’s technical specialists work alongside contractors, engineers and installers on new build projects throughout country to install fully integrated heating solutions. The Grant Aerona3 R32 air to water heat pump is commonly chosen as the main heat source in a new build due to its cleaner, more environmentally friendly performance and ability to lower a property’s overall carbon footprint. To complement this heat pump, Grant Uflex underfloor heating is installed as the heat emitter of choice.

Barry Gorman, National Renewables Sales Manager at Grant explains;

“Most new build properties in the Republic of Ireland are installing a heat pump as the main heat source as it helps to meet Part L compliance as required under building

regulations. The Aerona3 has quickly become a popular choice amongst those working in the trade due to its cleaner, more environmentally friendly performance, and its ability to lower a property’s overall carbon footprint.

Units within the range have achieved an A+++ energy rating at low temperatures such as 35°C or 45°C, and all four models also boast superior seasonal coefficient of performance (SCOP). Depending on climate conditions and demand on the heating system at the time, the heat pump can deliver 4kW of heat energy for every 1kW of electricity used.

When it comes to heating individual rooms within the property, underfloor heating is edging forward as the main choice of heat emitter due to its versatility and ability to work well with a heat pump, as both technologies can

Grant Aerona³ R32 10kW air to water air source heat pump

Build warmth with Grant

Our complete integrated heating packages provide everything needed to build a highly efficient, warm and comfortable home.

Tailored to suit the homeowners’requirements, each Grant heating package is correctly sized and specified, free of charge, to achieve compliance, maximise efficiencies and provide long-term savings.

Packages feature the Grant Aerona3 air to water, air source heat pump, Grant hot water cylinders, Grant Afinia aluminium radiators and the Grant Uflex underfloor heating system. Smart controls are also available.

Trust Grant on the journey to warmth and comfort by sending house plans to heatpump@grantengineering.ie

run at lower temperatures, using less energy, therefore providing significant carbon and financial savings for the property owner.

“The Uflex system is particularly suited under tile and hardwood flooring in kitchens, bathrooms and open plan living areas, and our technical specialists designed the system bespoke for each room based on flow rates and heat loss calculations. This professional service saves considerable time for engineers, contractors and installers and provides reassurance from knowing that the system is compliant in terms of Part L of the building regulations in the Republic of Ireland and can help achieve NZEB standards when paired with a heat pump. It also provides peace of mind from knowing the system will provide maximum comfort for the client.”

Both the Grant Aerona3 heat pump and Grant Uflex are included in Grant’s integrated heating packages for new builds and the heating system can be controlled using the Grant Uflex 230V Heatmiser Neo Stats heating controls system.

To avail of Grant’s free of charge heating design service by emailing house plans to heatpump@grantengineering.ie.

Key Features – The Grant Aerona3 R32 air to water heat pump

• The range is available in 6kW, 10kW, 13kW & 17kW

• Quiet Mark approved

• Extremely high SCOP

• 5-year guarantee

• Built in weather compensation

• Helps achieve renewable energy targets

• ErP rating of A+++

• Single phase

• Built in circulating pump

Visit www.grant.eu for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL, Instagram @ Grant_IRL or LinkedIn @GrantEngineeringULC

Grant Uflex underfloor heating

Grant smart heating controls

IRELAND’S HOME PERFORMANCE INDEX: A CERTIFICATION FOR SUSTAINABLE AND QUALITY HOMES

How the HPI version 3 aligns with EU Taxonomy and encourages sustainable development for Ireland’s growing population.

With a growing population, it is estimated within the National Development Plan, Project Ireland 2040, that at least 500,000 new homes must be delivered in Ireland in the next decade. A recent carbon modeling report commissioned by the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) to a group of researchers from UCD shows that we cannot reach our 2030’s climate targets if we do not address both operational and embodied carbon emissions. This means that the new homes we build should not only be highly energy efficient, but they should also be built in a more sustainable way. To support this transition and encourage the development of high-quality sustainable homes, the IGBC has developed the Home Performance Index (HPI) certification. The latest version of the HPI launched in

November 2022 (V3.0) is also fully aligned with the EU Taxonomy and as such can serve as a guide to developers and a mark of quality to investors.

What is Home Performance Index?

The Home Performance Index (HPI) is Ireland’s national certificate for quality and sustainability in new residential development. It has 35 indicators across five different categories: Environment, health and wellbeing, economic, quality assurance, and sustainable location. In simple terms, it sets a standard that takes account of factors beyond the energy efficiency of the home, also focusing on matters such as construction materials used, air quality, water efficiency and the sustainability of the location. Whilst aligned to Irish regulations, the HPI is internationally

recognized in line with GRESB, a global benchmark in the property industry, and approved by the International Well Building Institute for their WELL Community standard. It was also awarded 5 out of 5 for best practice and transparency by the European Construction Observatory. The Home Performance Index is independently assessed and awards certificates for the standard of home’s design, construction, and environmental sustainability. Since its launch in 2016, the interest in the certification had grown exponentially and some of the largest developers have registered to have their new projects certified by the Home Performance Index. As of January 2023, 20,141 homes have been registered with HPI.

Home Performance Index version 3

To better address all the emissions associated with new developments, from building them to heating them, and accessing them, the IGBC recently launched a new version of the Home Performance Index. Version 3 of the Home Performance Index is fully aligned with the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities (the Taxonomy) and introduces a number of new requirements. These include the requirement for a 10% improvement in energy efficiency beyond the Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) standard, and stronger requirements for whole life carbon assessment of new developments. Additionally, version 3 introduces two circular economy indicators: Design for Disassembly and Adaptable Design. The indicators were introduced to align with the requirements of the EU Taxonomy, under the Climate Mitigation and Circular Economy categories. Version 3.0 of the HPI also introduced Climate Risk as a new optional indicator. The indicator aims at encouraging

design team to better measure potential climate risks, such as future flood risks and overheating. More changes were made that improve the requirements for Sustainable Drainage, Universal Design and Natural Lighting. There are also new indicators that assess Life Cycle Costs, Residential mix and Private Open Space. Finally, two indicators have become mandatory, ecology to reflect growing concerns on biodiversity loss, and summer comfort to ensure consistent assessment of overheating.

Home Performance Index and the EU Taxonomy?

The EU Taxonomy is a dynamic classification system. It outlines the key criteria and practices for an economic activity to be regarded as “green”, with a view to tackling greenwashing. In simple terms, the more environmentally friendly a project is, the easier it should be to obtain funding at a lower interest rate. The changes made in HPI version 3 makes it fully aligned with the EU Taxonomy. This means that all HPI certified residential homes should qualify as “green” products under the Taxonomy and may be eligible for green finance and low interest green loans. Two financial institutions are already offering such products for HPI certified projects, AIB and Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI). For instance, the green loan offered by HBFI gives up to 0.5% discount for all projects that have been awarded the HPI certificate.

If you would like to find out more about the Home Performance Index please visit https:// homeperformanceindex.ie or contact Brian Crowley at brian@igbc.ie.

PHARMACEUTICAL SECTOR CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY

Ireland’s pharmaceutical sector is known around the world for its innovative excellence and strong workforce. As a result of their leadership, companies such as Abbott, Styker, Eli Lilly and Pfizer, among others, have continued to invest in this area of the Irish industrial sector. Because of the nature of this industry, it generates both permanent local jobs with ongoing government support and exposure and construction jobs on large-scale sites. The industry has a significant economic impact, employing over 30,000 people directly and accounting for more than half of all goods exports by value. Furthermore, over the last decade, the sector has

invested over €10bn in Ireland, the majority of which has gone into new or expanded manufacturing facilities.

In this analysis, CIS will overview the activity in this sector over the last 12 months and compare this to the activity recorded in the year previous. In this view, we should be better able to determine and measure the performance of this sector after the recovery from covid and other industry challenges such as material costs, labour shortages and net zero targets. It is imperative to note that activity in this sector ensures the continued manufacturing, delivery and advancement of high-quality medical

products and devices to keep up with demand on a global and domestic scale.

Plans submitted / Granted

In the last 12 months, there has been 54 projects submitted for planning across the country with an estimated shell and core value of €700m. The highest activity was in the southern region of the country which already hosts some of the largest names in the industry. When compared to the year previous, we have noted an uptake of projects at plans submitted over 2022 with a total of with a value of €96m - An overall increase of 62.8% in terms of investment. Life science specialists are continually seeking to collaborate with contractors to provide cutting-edge solutions from the early concept stages all the way through project completion.

Plans submitted

Planning approvals also saw an increase in terms of volume the last 12 months with 48 versus 29 – a value increase of 65.2%. Growth in the planning pipeline is sustained in all regions except for the Northern & Midland region, where there is a decrease in the number of planning permissions being submitted and granted. Many of these schemes represent new high value ventures for research and development and expansion. CIS has noted that the amount of projects refused or appealed in the pharmaceutical sector is extremely low at this stage of the pipeline delivery which is positive for timeline delivery.

On the ground / Complete

The number of projects onsite in the past 12 months is currently 28, most of which are predominantly located in the eastern and midland regions of the country. As we are only in Q1 these figures are bound to increase as the volume of plans granted in late 2022 and early 2023 begin to get underway.

Project Starts (2023)

Project: Eli Lily Biopharmaceutical Building, Raheen, Co. Limerick - Construction Value (Shell & Core Estimate): €72m

Notes: According to reports, approximately 500 construction jobs will be created throughout the project’s construction phase. When completed, this facility will employ 300 permanent staff. We understand that this facility represents an overall investment of €400 Million.

Project Completions (2023)

Completions are poised to increase over 2023 due to the uptick in planning volumes. There has been a significant increase in the number of projects completed across the region of Ireland in the last 12 months, with the handover of 23 schemes compared to 15 in the same year previous. This trend points toward healthy recovery and growth in the pharmaceutical sector after covid.

Eli Lily Biopharmaceutical Building, Raheen, Co. Limerick - Construction Value (Shell & Core Estimate): €72m

Image: Jacobs Engineering

IRELAND'S BEST SPECIALIST STABILISATION CONTRACTOR

We are providing our Clients with ESG compliance solutions, helping them to achieve their carbon emissions goals and to engage in the Circular Economy

Shannon Valley Group Unit 12 Shannon Valley Centre, Roseville, Turvey Lane, Donabate, Co. Dublin Tel. 01 813 8082

www.shannonvalley.ie

Pharmaceutical Project to watch this year

Project: Abbott Ireland Pharmaceutical Development Extension, Loughboy, Co. Kilkenny - Construction Value (Shell & Core Estimate): €55m. Size: 29,714 m2

Notes: This project represents an overall investment value of €440m. Hundreds of local jobs are expected to be created upon completion. Size: 29,714 m2

Estimated completion: 2024

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ireland’s pharmaceutical sector remains buoyant with promising signs of sustained growth in the realms of planning and construction. There has been an overall increase in the number of projects submitted, granted, and completed in 2023 compared to 2022. The Southern region of the country has seen the highest activity, with the majority of projects located in the eastern and midland regions. Overall, the industry has seen an increase in planning submissions and approvals despite the occurrence of covid and other challenges in construction, with the southern and eastern & midlands regions experiencing the highest levels of activity.

However, the Northern & Midland region is experiencing a downturn in planning pipeline growth, with a decrease

in the number of planning permissions being submitted and granted. It is hoped that investment in the Northern and Western regions will recover in the coming months ahead.

Two key projects to watch out for in the industry are the Eli Lily Biopharmaceutical Building in Raheen, Co. Limerick and the Abbott Ireland Pharmaceutical Development Extension in Loughboy, Co. Kilkenny. These projects are set to create hundreds of jobs and represent significant investments in the sector.

Global Players in the pharmaceutical industry are continuing to engage with domestic contractors, who are offering innovative construction solutions responding to the advancing needs research and development in the areas of new product expansion, retrofitting and sustainability. The focus on net zero and ongoing carbon reduction in construction activities, embedded carbon, and long-term operational costs is by far the most significant emerging trend in this sector. Completions are set to increase in 2023 compared to 2022, indicating a positive outlook for the industry.

Written and researched by Josh Wiler and Sharon O’Rourke of Construction Information Services. If you have any queries about the data within this article or to arrange a demo of the CIS platform, please contact (01) 2999 200 or email sales@cisireland.com.

Project: Abbott Ireland Pharmaceutical Development Extension, Loughboy, Co. Kilkenny - Construction Value (Shell & Core Estimate): €55m

Image RKD Architects

THE INTEREST RATE TIGHTROPE U

ncertainty is creating volatility, the war in Ukraine, the crazy Trussonomics scenario in September to October 2022 in the UK, China’s zero covid policy (up until recently) are just the tip of the iceberg. The world today seems, to me, absolutely bonkers and makes it very difficult to see a clear path ahead.

Whilst there is or was a need to increase interest rates to battle inflation my concern is whether central banks globally are overtightening in particular the ECB and the FED in their attempts to get to the holy grail of 2% target in such an aggressive manner, is causing economic damage. If truth were to be told neither the FED nor the ECB cannot control prices as this is a supply versus demand issue. The ECB’s and we could conclude, the US’s primary objectives are to maintain price stability, ultimately preserving the purchasing power of their currencies. In fairness price stability does create conditions for more stable economic growth and a more stable financial system but I would argue this would apply under more normalised conditions. But is 2% really the opti-

mum for today’s environment, would 3% or 4% really be that detrimental, in my opinion it would not be as bad and certainly would be better than pushing a potential recession. Higher inflation rates would also allow for greater growth and allow Central Bankers more space to cut rates when needed.

The holy grail of 2% inflation which is the “so called optimum” for a balanced economy is not really possible in the current uncertain and volatile world we live in, the current thinking by central banks of fast and furious interest rate hikes is to crush demand, reducing employment which in turn should reduce inflation, but the downside may cause a recession. The medium to short-term goals should be more balanced, a levelling off, lower increases or a halt to increasing interest rates is paramount, we need to see if these hikes have already taken hold as further increases particularly high raises could unintentionally push the globe into a much more protracted recession than is required. If this were to happen then this would leave central banks with very little ammunition

Protecting life, buildings and products

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to rectify the situation, such as reducing interest rates and reverting to quantitative easing to counteract such a problem.

A protracted recession with depleted central bank arsenal leaves highly indebted countries open to the debt markets, that is government bonds start to become too expensive leaving governments to struggle to refinance their ongoing debt needs. On top of this we could also see a period of stagflation, “The danger of stagflation is considerable today,” the World Bank warned. “Several years of above-average inflation and below-average

growth are now likely.” Economic slowdown, increased unemployment with consistent high inflation, this is all down to timing effects of monetary policy while so many other elements are outside of central banks control, such as the bottle necks of increased price of gas, ongoing supply shortages in construction, chip manufacturing, labour, etc driving up costs. The tight robe central bankers are walking now is wobbly let’s hope they can maintain their balance.

Colm McGrath – Managing Director Surety Bonds

€28M Investment in Kildare by Lufthansa Technik

A€28M investment has been announced for Kildare as Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon, the Irish subsidiary of Lufthansa Technik AG, today officially opened its new Mobile Engine Services facility in Celbridge, Kildare. The state-of-the-art facility has been established for the service and repair of engines for airline and aviation leasing companies from Ireland and across the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region.

Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon (LTTS) has announced the further expansion of its business in Ireland with the opening of a new 2,000 M2 facility and the creation of 25 new jobs in Shannon, with more to be announced later in the year. LTTS, a subsidiary of Germany’s Lufthansa Technik AG, is experiencing a significant increase in market demand for its worldwide maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for aircraft engines and components, particularly following the recovery of the aviation sector after the Covid-19 pandemic.

LTTS has been operating in Ireland since 1992 and employs more than 300 people in Shannon, Kildare and Dublin. The current expansion plans mean that the company urgently needs 25 highly skilled aircraft mechanics who will be based at its new facility in the mid-west, working on state-of-the-art aviation technology and equipment. It is expected that the new facility, commissioned by The Shannon Airport Group, will be fully operational by March 2023.

The project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD said: “This is fantastic news for Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon who are celebrating 30 years in operation in Shannon. The new state-of-the-art facility will create highly skilled jobs in the Shannon Aviation Services Cluster. Congratulations to the whole Lufthansa Technik team on this milestone achievement. I wish you the very best with this new chapter.”

The announcement follows the recent launch of Lufthansa Technik’s Mobile Engine Services facility in Kildare. “Today we are marking another significant milestone for Lufthansa Technik in the Irish market with the addition of a manufacturing operation in Shannon. This is a really important development for our customers and complements our existing services portfolio in MRO,” said CEO, Michael Malewski.

“The aviation industry was severely impacted by the pandemic. However, the recovery has been rapid and the demand for aircraft maintenance is greater than ever. We are meeting this strong demand by growing our footprint, our capacity and our workforce in Ireland. We already doubled our productive headcount in Shannon over the past 18 months and now need even more people to join our team.”

Eileen Sharpe, Global Head of Engineering & Green Economy and Growth Markets, IDA Ireland, said: “Today’s announcement that LTTS is expanding operations in Shannon where it has had a presence for the past three decades is very good news. This expansion will increase capacity at the facility and lead to the creation of highly skilled roles. IDA Ireland remains committed to winning jobs and investment in regional locations. I wish LTTS every success with this investment.”

The latest development in Shannon means that not only is LTTS expanding its footprint in Ireland, but it will also be able to offer new products for turbine engines that power Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft (specifically, CFM56, V2500, LEAP and GTF turbine engines).

The company’s project delivery approach in the pharma, life sciences and med-tech sector is no exception. It involves early engagement with all the stakeholders to bring about the utmost understanding of client needs and to ensure that an end product is second to none. Kirby has partnered through the years with numerous clients in the pharmaceutical sector and sees a bright future ahead with the continuation of investment in the sector in Ireland.

Working within the pharmaceutical sector is a major part of Kirby’s M&E output with an advanced level of multi-industry collaboration at play on every project. Significant technological advances in recent years have meant that about 40% of Kirby’s construction work on pharmaceutical plants is off-site, which generates efficiencies and brings enhanced control over health and safety measures.

Coordination of projects

The coordination of these projects from pre-construction

stage right through to sign-off is complex and multifaceted. Operations Director at Kirby, Mikey Ryan has been working on pharma projects for over 15 years and says the level of detail cannot be underestimated: “The complexity of services, from the chemicals being used to the electrical installation requirements is huge. These projects can be very demanding and require a lot of experience and knowledge. No one works in isolation, we collaborate with BIM engineers, other project stakeholders and of course with the client to make sure everyone is on the same page. We want to be sure that the finished project creates easy access for the end user, with ongoing maintenance being vital after sign-off.”

Advanced technology enabling off-site manufacturing

Much of Kirby’s work on pharma projects is done at its off-site premises in Athlone, County Westmeath, which offers the dual benefit of saving time and reducing onsite risk. The company is also planning to build a facility in Portlaoise, where large modules will be constructed and transported straight to pharma sites.

Kirby Group Engineering has always been committed to bringing value to its clients through innovation, collaboration and problem solving.

Mark Danaher is Associate Director of Technical Services at Kirby, who also heads up the Digital Construction Department. A large amount of his work involves streamlining processes on projects using advanced technology: “With our off-site work, we’re reducing onsite hours by moving some of our staff into a manufacturing facility. Space tends to be at a premium on pharma sites, so we’ve created a controlled manufacturing environment, which brings efficiencies and minimises safety and quality issues that can traditionally appear on construction sites.”

Mark says that rapidly evolving digital technology means that projects that were once quite labour intensive can be done far more efficiently. “We are using state-of-the art software to carry out 3D modelling at our offices in Limerick, Galway and Dublin. These 3D models are shared directly with our operations teams in real time through our Digital Construction Hubs, located on construction sites. We also use robotics on site, so for example if you wanted to set out large equipment or services, we can locate the geo-coordinates directly on site from the 3D model by using a robotic total station. This utilises an automated laser guided system, allowing our teams to pinpoint the exact location of our installations, which reduces the need for old fashioned measuring tapes. We are also doing a lot of work with site data. Digital tools allow us to feed live data from site back to the

office in the form of project dashboards. This allows for more informed decision making on the project by our management team. These digital interactive tools are all about time savings and cutting down on manual work.”

Successful projects

One of the recent projects that Mark has worked on with Kirby includes a pharmaceutical facility in County Meath. The project involved installing mechanical pipework, which required a high level of interaction and coordination: “The key for pharma clients is to reduce, wherever possible, on welding, cutting and chopping on site, and completing as much of the pipework and system creation as possible off-site. For that particular project, we modelled all of the mechanical pipework, we sent it to an off-site manufacturing facility, the modules and piping components were then manufactured and brought to site.”

On this project, the main contractor also approached Kirby seeking solutions to help with builders works on site. “Rather than waiting for all stakeholders to complete their drawings, we utilised the live model to set out the builders work element with our robotic total station. By doing this we helped the main contractor save time on site and achieve project milestones.”

Mark also highlights another project that Kirby worked

on in Athlone, which had a significant element of pharmaceutical components. “We were dealing with heavily congested piping systems. We utilised our 3D modelling capability to co-ordinate the piping allowing us to create large piping modules. These modules were manufactured in an off-site facility and delivered to the construction site when needed. Due to the complex nature of the piping it was essential that we manufactured the pipe in a safe controlled environment ensuring the highest possible quality of work. By building digitally first, we ensure a ‘right first time’ approach to construction,” he added.

Collaboration at the heart of project management

Mark is keen to point out that when it comes to pharma projects in particular, collaboration is key: “My team would be right in the heart of working with the manufacturing facility team, the design team, the inhouse Kirby engineers, the planners and site installation team. We really believe in planning and collaborating as much as possible to alleviate issues before they arise. There are also many other factors that need to be taken into consideration, such as the CSA (Civil Structural Architectural) elements, as well as additional services like electrical and fire safety. Changes at any point could impact M&E services so everyone needs to work together as early as possible.”

Ireland as a pharma hub

Mikey Ryan says the fact that Ireland is a med-tech and pharma hub has meant that Kirby has worked extensively in these fields, with the company having roughly 30 recurring clients in the sector: “We’ve worked on sprinkler pump houses, mechanical plant rooms,

electrical switchrooms, data rooms, piping skids and also containment modules. They’re the same services you’re more or less dealing with on all the projects but slightly different designs. We’ve been quite lucky to work with some great pharma companies, particularly in the West of Ireland and in Leinster. It’s a fantastic industry for Kirby to be involved with. We really like to understand the product from the end user perspective and a lot of what’s being manufactured at these plants is life-saving,” he said.

While the technological advances in pharma at M&E level have been vast, Mikey believes that, although he’s seen much change over the past 15 years, he feels other aspects of the industry have been constant: “You’re still working with pipes and cables as you did in the past. But the big difference is in the digitisation, which has been a massive game changer. With the Hololens 3D software we use, you can see within the millimetre whether things are correct or incorrect. The level of technology and digitisation is becoming more advanced all the time, it’s amazing progress. And yet, for all the wonderful improvements and innovation, you still need fitters and electricians who can carry out the on-site work too,” he said.

Mikey envisages a bright future within the pharma sector: “We definitely see many more projects on the horizon in the Irish market. There is currently fantastic investment in the sector, which is a good thing. Obviously, there’s a strong demand in the data centre sector at the moment but we’re equally as involved in pharma and med tech, and we see this side of our business continuing to grow well into the future.”

Mikey Ryan Operations Director

Mark Danaher Associate DirectorTechnical Services

KPMG Construction Advisory is expanding

Following the acquisition in April last year of construction specialists KMCS, KPMG has announced the appointment of Wes Jesson as the new Manging Director of the renamed KPMG Construction Advisory. KMCS founder Nigel Spence will continue to act as a senior consultant to the business.

Wes Jesson joins KPMG Construction Advisory from Linesight and has over 18 years’ experience working across diverse sectors of the construction industry including large scale infrastructure, commercial and residential projects in Ireland, the UK and Middle East and more recently his focus has been on key account management for international mission critical clients in Ireland and across Europe.

Seamus Hand, Managing Partner of KPMG in Ireland said: “We’re delighted to welcome Wes to KPMG. We have ambitious plans for our Construction Advisory team to further support the increasing international client demand for independent, experienced cost and project management advice on their construction projects. I’d also like to reco-

gnise the role that Nigel has had in founding and building the current success in the business. I’m confident that Wes and his expanding team will be well positioned to meet the ever changing and exciting needs of our clients across a number of industry sectors.”

Wes Jesson, Managing Director of KPMG Construction Advisory said: “I’m excited to be leading the great team of professionals at KPMG Construction Advisory and building on the already strong reputation the business has built up in the construction sector. We manage all aspects of our clients’ projects and help ensure successful project delivery both from a cost and schedule perspective. We know that the market really values quality, efficiency and certainty in the planning and execution of all aspects of major construction projects and we’re committed to fully delivering on those expectations. We’re excited for the future of the business and our ability to scale and grow our team to offer key construction consultancy services to local and international clients with the full support of the wider KPMG Business.”

Putting People First: John Paul Construction Appoints New HR Director

In a move aimed at further strengthening its Senior Leadership team, leading Irish company John Paul Construction has appointed Helen Forbes as Human Resources (HR) Director.

In a career that includes senior HR roles with large multi-nationals such as Aviva Ireland and General Electric (GE), Helen Forbes has established a strong track record for sustaining trusted business relationships. Importantly for John Paul Construction, which has diversity and inclusion at its heart, she is focused on nurturing talent in ways that empower people to play to their strengths.

Commenting on Helen’s appointment, Liam Kenny, Managing Director of John Paul Construction, says: “I am delighted to welcome Helen to the company. She will work with our Senior Leaders to deliver on our strategic objectives with respect to our number one asset: our people. These objectives include enhanced employee engagement and wellbeing initiatives, professional development and performance management and talent attraction and retention in what is a very competitive market. We’re excited to have Helen join us and we wish her every success.”

Most recently, as People Director at Aviva Ireland, Helen led the company’s People & Culture strategy. At John Paul Construction, which in 2022 grew its workforce to over 500 employees, she will focus on aligning and consolidating the company’s people development and leadership development practices, while equipping the fast-growing workforce with the skills to develop both professionally and personally. The last few years have seen strong growth at the company despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and, most recently, the war in Ukraine. Liam Kenny attributes much of this success to the company’s robust culture, which has supported people to remain agile and resilient through a period of significant growth and change.

Helen joins the company at an exciting stage, just as the construction industry is experiencing growing demand for its services both at home and internationally. On her new role, she says: “I’m so excited to be working with John Paul Construction. This is a company and a leadership team that really understands that people are the most important factor in their success.”

New Directors appointed to MOLA Architecture

In a move aimed at further strengthening its Senior Leadership team, leading Irish company John Paul Construction has appointed Helen Forbes as Human Resources (HR) Director.

MOLA Architecture, one of Ireland’s leading architectural and interior design practices, is delighted to announce the appointment of two new Directors to its management team in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the success and growth of the practice. Naomi Lloyd and Paul Finnegan join the founding Directors, Michael O’Carroll and Ralph Bingham, in running the company’s operations in Ireland and Europe, and in planning its future direction. These appointments are key to implementation of the company’s growth and evolution plans, and its commitment to enabling career progression at MOLA. Naomi and Paul will help to deliver on MOLA’s goals of maintaining design excellence, cultivating top quality personnel and sustaining continued, yet controlled, growth in key market sectors.

Architect Naomi joined the MOLA team in 2017 and has over 25 years’ experience as an architect working in the healthcare, education, commercial and residential sectors. Since joining Naomi has contributed greatly in all areas of MOLA’s operations, managing in-house and Design Teams in the development of numerous Hotel and Residential schemes, notably delivering the large Ardcairn Student

Accommodation project in 2019. Having become an Associate in 2018 Naomi brings her strong interpersonal, managerial and leadership skills to the MOLA team and will help drive the architectural business forward and maintain our high standards in service delivery and quality of design. Naomi previously spent 21 years in Cullen Payne Architects where she worked on numerous health care, educational and residential projects as an Associate Director. We look forward to her continued support, her composure and perspective, and many contributions to the evolution of MOLA.

Interior Designer

Paul joined the MOLA team in 2012 and over the past 10 years has helped develop MOLA into a market leader in Interior Design in Ireland and an innovator in the area of Workplace Strategy. Paul has a virtually unparalled track record in the delivery of award winning Interior Design projects, many for the most successful Global businesses, including Google, Zendesk, Avolon, Facebook, Stripe, MongoDB and BNP Paribas. Paul, who became an Associate in 2018, is a well-known figure within the design industry in Ireland and is quickly developing a reputation internationally. His design talent, enthusiasm and energy are key to maintaining MOLA‘s high standards of excellence in design. We are delighted to have Paul come on board as a Director and look forward to his assistance in shaping the future of MOLA.

Naomi Lloyd - BArch, MRIAI

Paul Finnegan- BA (Hons) Design, MIDI

PORTADOWN-BASED INDUSTRY TRAINING SERVICES OPENS FOR BUSINESS IN DUBLIN

Northern Ireland-based provider of specialised training courses for the construction, civil engineering, utilities and manufacturing sectors expands to serve clients in Leinster & wider region.

Industry Training Services (ITS), Northern Ireland’s number one provider of health and safety training solutions to the construction, civil engineering, utilities and manufacturing sectors has opened a base in Dublin as the company sees a demand for health & safety training within the Republic of Ireland.

As the leading provider of health & safety training to local authorities, food manufacturers, telecoms and construction companies across NI, ITS is equipped to deliver first class safety training for essential safety certifications and for specialist conditions, such as confined space training, temporary works and tower

crane rescue right across the country.

ITS was established in 2000 by civil engineer, Brendan Crealey who identified the need for a professional health and safety training company for the construction sector in Northern Ireland after working on large motorway and construction projects in the UK. Since then, the company has grown across NI and into border regions with a purpose-built health and safety training campus on 12 acres near Portadown, Co. Armagh. The company’s training services are also highly mobile as they can provide bespoke professional training courses at client sites anywhere across the island of Ireland.

Speaking at today’s announcement, Brendan Crealey commented, “In the 23 years since we were first established, ITS has become the leading supplier of training courses for a wide range of industries across Northern Ireland. However, throughout those years of growth we have had a sizeable number of companies from the south that have become long-term clients of ITS. We see establishing a permanent presence in Dublin as a key step in enabling us to better serve our customers in Dublin and the wider region.”

Mr. Crealey continued: “Our state-of-the-art training facility near Portadown, close to the M1 motorway is less than a 90-minute drive from north county Dublin and we have had a lot of clients from Dublin, north Leinster and indeed from a broad swathe of counties close to the border including Louth, Monaghan, Cavan, Roscommon,

Sligo and right across the county of Donegal”.

The company provides accredited training for many employees from the island of Ireland who work on infrastructure projects across the UK, acting as a ‘close to home’ one-stop-shop for companies who need to ensure they have the correct accreditation for employees before being assigned to projects across the water. ITS’ range of customers goes beyond the construction sector to include companies from utilities, telecoms, manufacturing and engineering, local authorities, food manufacturing, agriculture, and horticulture.

ITS is the leading provider for many indispensable training courses including tailored programmes aimed at employees who are faced with operating in confined spaces. The company has custom built confined space installations at its Portadown facility that replicates real

world situations as faced by employees from varying sectors such as food manufacturing, agriculture, brewing, water and drainage works and flour milling. In addition, ITS has developed a tailor-made trailer to provide a mobile confined space training facility that can be taken to a client’s facility anywhere in Ireland.

Mr. Crealey added: “Thankfully, accidents with employees in confined spaces are very rare, but companies need to be aware of their duty of care for employees in these situations and our expertise in this area coupled with our specially designed trailer mean we are a leading provider for this specialised training to companies and local authorities anywhere on the island of Ireland”.

Tower crane rescue is another area where ITS has built up a level of expertise. “Just look at the skyline of Dublin and you will see how many tower cranes there are in operation”, continued Crealey. “Tower crane operators

are highly trained workers who carry out their duties in a unique environment. Tower crane operator employers have a duty of care to these very specialised workers, in the event of a health or other type of emergency that the operator could suffer, only specially trained personnel can effectively bring the tower crane operator down in such a situation. It is up to the construction company who owns the tower crane to ensure they always have an appropriately trained team of personnel on site who can intervene and carryout a rescue procedure should the worst happen. ITS can offer expert advice on equipment needed and carryout tower crane rescue training for companies that own or operate tower cranes anywhere in Ireland”.

The Dublin Headquarters for Industry Training Services is situated in Cherry Orchard, Dublin 10 and can be reached on (01) 891 6105 or at info@industrytrainingservices.com for more information.

AbbVie Cork facility €60 million expansion

The Irish biopharmaceutical plant was given a special update for its pivotal 20th anniversary, expanding the site to offer its future workforce training in new technology.

AbbVie, an international R&D biopharmaceutical enterprise has celebrated its 20th anniversary by investing in extensive renovations at its manufacturing site in Cork. The €60 million expansion will open 70 new jobs in sterile manufacturing, quality control and engineering in 2025. Construction at the Carrigtwohill facility built in 2013 is set to begin in 2023.

“This latest investment is a fantastic opportunity for the Cork site and a recognition of the expertise and commitment of our dedicated employees over the past 20 years. The expansion and associated cutting-edge technologies will help us to further develop our employees and attract new skilled talent,” commented Malcolm Garde, Site Director at AbbVie’s Cork facility.

The company explained that using the latest manufacturing technology will be a key objective at the Carrigtwohill site, particularly to help the aesthetics side of the business.

A three-year employee training programme, backed by the government and the IDA, will help its 150 employees develop essential skills when using innovative, upcoming technologies. Reducing the facilities carbon impact will also be supported by the expansion.

Martin Shanahan, CEO of IDA Ireland declared: “It is a very significant day for a plant that already has a long and proud record of pharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation. IDA Ireland is delighted to partner with AbbVie in creating these opportunities for new employees who will help write the next chapter in its story.”

The company has 2,600 employees based at eight locations in Ireland, including Sligo and Dublin, manufacturing ground-breaking medicines for global supply, explained Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar in 2022. AbbVie began trading in Ireland in 1974 and has been recognised as one of the Best Large Workplaces in Ireland for several years. Early in 2022, AbbVie was named Best Workplace for Women and ‘Biopharma Company of the Year’ at the latest Irish Pharma Industry Awards.

SISK SELECTED TO DEVELOP ONE OPERA SQUARE

Limerick Twenty Thirty (LTT) and the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF), part of the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA), today announced the creation of a unique joint venture partnership to finance the development of the One Opera Square project in Limerick city centre.

LTT has appointed John Sisk & Son (Sisk) for the design and construction of the circa 10,000sqm Opera Square site-wide basement and the six storey One Opera Square office building. Works on the project have commenced and will be completed in January 2025.

Demolition and enabling works on the site - the largest such contract undertaken outside the capital – have already been completed by Sisk. This included the stabilisation of the 16 historic Georgian buildings onsite for redevelopment. The works on the current contract comprise of the construction of the site wide basement and the 6 storey One Opera Square office building. The basement will accommodate 155 car spaces including Electronic Charging Spots, 323 bicycles and ancillary areas serving the buildings above.

Steven McGee, COO, Ireland, John Sisk & Son said: “On foot of the successful delivery of Phase 1 of Opera

The order of progress.

Square, Sisk is proud to have been selected as preferred contactor to complete Phase 2 of this project that will transform this area making it more competitive to attract European businesses and offer much needed accommodation in the Midwest region. We look forward to working with all stakeholders on Phase 2 of Opera Square to leave a lasting legacy on local communities in Limerick.”

Chairman of LTT Conn Murray said: “The agreement is a major boost for the Opera Square project and the wider region. One Opera Square is going to be one of the landmark buildings in this emerging new Limerick city centre and will deliver huge economic benefit for the city and region, with capacity for up to 1,000 employees. Having a trusted partner like the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund on board to enable its delivery is a major vote of confidence in the wider project and Limerick’s growth potential.”

LTT & ISIF joint venture of €80m is the largest direct commitment by ISIF to date under its €500m investment programme for five regional cities – Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford –announced last summer. The programme is a cornerstone of ISIF’s new investment strategy that will result in major investment being targeted to each city in the form of new places to work, places to live and enabling investments resulting in the regeneration of regional city centres.

The Joint Venture Partnership was announced today at the first flagship project developed by LTT, the mul-

ti-award-winning Gardens International in the heart of Limerick.

One Opera Square will be developed over six flexible-use floors located at the corner of Michael Street and Ellen Street, in Limerick city centre. It provides for circa 10,000 sqm of Grade A office space and can accommodate several tenancies per floor and up to 1,000 employees in the building. The development will also offer restaurant and retail units at ground level with an external seating area in the Public Square, external landscaped roof terraces and world-class cycle facilities for employees.

One Opera Square will be developed to the highest international sustainability standard by achieving LEED Platinum accreditation as well as achieving a ‘Nearly Zero Energy Building’ (nZEB) rating and WiredScore. LEED certified buildings have the highest energy efficiency, lower carbon emissions and create healthier places for people to work and live. They are a critical part of addressing climate change and meeting ESG goals, enhancing resilience and supporting more equitable communities.

The wider Opera Square development is a 3.7acre landmark commercial development that will be significant for both the region and national context, reflecting Limerick’s status as a leading city in sustainability and innovation. It will encourage additional people to work in the city of Limerick, boosting its status as a vibrant place to work and delivering significant economic benefit.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar breaks ground on Waterford North Quays Public Infrastructure Project

On a seminal day for Waterford, ground was broken on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD.

The project comes following last November’s Government approval of €170.6m of investment in the North Quays Project, consisting of €100.6m of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and a further €70m from the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA), which will open up access to the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ).

The public infrastructure works funded by the Government in the North Quays include enhanced multi-modal access routes, an integrated transport hub including the relocation of Waterford train station to a more convenient location, and the sustainable transport bridge. The sustainable transport bridge will link the reallocated train station to new walking and cycling infrastructure. These works will reduce the reliance on private car and facilitate alternative modes of transport for those accessing the area through the delivery of enhanced and integrated sustainable and active travel infrastructure.

The main contract for these infrastructure works was awarded to BAM in November 2022 and today’s ground breaking ceremony signals the commencement of substantial construction works which are expected to be completed in 2025.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said, “Today is a momentous day for Waterford and the region. This breaking of ground represents more than just the start of works on access infrastructure in the city. It represents the start of Waterford’s renaissance. “As Ireland’s oldest city, with a rich tapestry of over 1,000 years of history, today marks a new phase in Waterford’s story…one very much with its sights set on moving forward. This transformative project is set to act as a catalyst in assuring Waterford’s economic potency, along with delivering a myriad of environmental, social and tourism benefits to the Southeast.”

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD said, “It’s an honour to be in Waterford today on what is a historic day as we break ground on

what will be a new quarter for Ireland’s most ancient city. It will unlock the North Quays as a place for thousands of people to live, work, shop and visit. It will help Waterford to become a city of scale that can attract more investment, jobs and skills. This high quality, sustainable public infrastructure project in the heart of Waterford City, along with the attendant development of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone, is of huge economic and social importance to the city and the South-East. The infrastructure project will drive economic development and create jobs in Waterford and the wider region, and the development of the SDZ will enhance the city’s economic, commercial and tourist offering and improve the quality of life for people living in the city. The overall project is a great example of how we can make transformative improvements to our cities and towns with coordinated planning, along with public and private investment. Project Ireland 2040 is focused on balanced regional development and includes the target to grow Waterford at twice the rate of Dublin, by 50% by 2040. Breaking ground on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project marks an important milestone in achieving that goal.”

Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland commented, “The BAM team is delighted to be breaking ground today and look forward to working with Waterford City and County Council to deliver this sustainable infrastructure project that will positively impact the city environs for the people of Waterford.”