CONSTRUCTION the official magazine of the construction industry federation
december 2015
The Heritage Boys! Talking Conservation with Contractors
January/February 2015 CONSTRUCTION 22
PLUMBING & DRAINAGE PRESENTS
Colossal Drainage Capacity
Mega Snow Loading Capabilities
Iconic Sealing Performance
Tough, reliable and big enough to defy epic challenges, Brett Martin’s Deepstyle 170 rainwater system stands up to everything the elements throw at it. An extra deep 170mm gutter profile delivers drainage capacity to the max for bigger buildings. Robust design ensures mega snow loading capability to BS EN 1462 Load Class H and UV-resistant PVC means looks that last. The iconic factory fitted CLIP & SEAL locks the gutter securely in place for a strong, totally watertight king of the rain. For more information on Brett Martin’s Deepstyle 170 blockbuster: Tel 048 9084 9999 or Email sales@brettmartin.com
www.brettmartin.com
CONSTRUCTION
EDITORIAL A
s we get ready to face 2016, one of the buildings that will play an important role in the upcoming Rising commemorations is on this month’s cover. The Shelbourne Hotel is currently in the middle of an extensive restoration of its façade, undertaken by CIF member and Heritage Contractor Dermot Collier and his team at Acol. We spoke to Dermot and other heritage contractors about the sector for our cover story, which starts in page 25. This month we travelled to Donegal to hear from CIF members in the North West about TalkINg CONSeRvaTION how they view the construction sector. As you wITh CONTRaCTORS would expect there is some straight talking about a two-tier industry developing between This month’s cover was taken by Robbie Reynolds outside the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin, east and west coasts. Starting on page 39, CIF Director Hubert 23rd November 2015. In the image are (L-R) Fitzpatrick has written a handy guide to Bruce Hawthorne, Technical Engineer, Rusteverything you wanted to know about B(C)AR. Oleum, Tom Kelleher, Technical Sales There is also a useful Guide for best practise in Manager, Carbon Group, Justin McCarthy, Managing Director, McCarthy & Associates and tendering which starts on page 44. Finally, as we approach Christmas it’s Dermot Collier, CEO Acol Ltd. CTION INdUSTRy fedeRaTI ON The OffICIal magazINe Of The CONSTRU december 2015
The heRITage BOyS!
fantastic to be able to report (page 13) on CIF members working with the Peter McVerry Trust to build 12 homes for the homeless. The amount of time, effort and resources donated by CIF members stands at over €1m and it’s great to see traditional rivals come together for such a worthy cause. Have a Happy Christmas and prosperous 2016! C
January/February 2015 CONSTRUCTION 22
Foundation Media Ltd, Foundation Media Sandwith House 52-54 Sandwith Street Lower Dublin 2 P: +353 1 677 3157
Construction Industry Federation
Editor: Brian Foley Email: brian@ foundationmedia.ie
Construction House, 8 Montpellier Terrace, The Crescent, Galway. Tel: 091 502680 Fax: 091 584575 Email: cifgalway@cif.ie
Commercial Manager: Joe Connolly Email: joe@ foundationmedia.ie Editorial Design: Alex Lifeson Printing: W.G. Baird Publisher Foundation Media Ltd
Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6. Tel: 01 4066000 Fax: 01 4966953 Email: cif@cif.ie
Construction House, 4 Eastgate Avenue, Little Island, Cork. Tel: 021 4351410 Fax: 021 4351416 Email: cifcork@cif.ie PRESIDENT: Michael Stone Director General: Tom Parlon Chief Operations Officer: George Hennessy
MAIN CONTRACTING: Martin Lang, Alison Irving SPECIALIST CONTRACTING: Sean Downey, Gillian Ross INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS & EMPLOYMENT SERVICES: Jean Winters, Cheryl Treanor EASTERN REGION: Hubert Fitzpatrick, Noel O’Connor SOUTHERN REGION: Conor O’Connell WESTERN / MIDLAND REGION: Justin Molloy SAFETY & MANPOWER SERVICES: Dermot Carey LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT: Robert Butler, Laura Dennison MEMBERSHIP: Renee McManus FINANCE / ACCOUNTS: Gabriel MacGrath COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Anne Cleary, Rosalind Travers
CIRI CIRI OFFICE: Jeanette Mair CIRI CPD OFFICE: Robert Butler affinity schemes Safe T Cert Dermot Carey Affinity Cover Conor O’Connell, Justin Molloy, Gillian Heffernan CQAI Robert Butler Register of Heritage Contractors Jeanette Mair Imagine Renee McManus CERS: Frances McNally Tel: 01- 407 1434 Email: info@cers.ie MILESTONE ADVISORY: Susan O’Mara Tel: 01- 406 8021 Email: info@milestoneadvisory.ie CWPS: Brigid Finn Tel: 01- 406 8025 Email: info@cwps.ie
DIRECTOR / EXECUTIVE TEAM HOUSING & PLANNING: Hubert Fitzpatrick, Noel O’Connor, Jeanette Mair
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 01
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Part of the SIG plc group, one of the largest building product distributors in Europe, SIG Construction Accessories & SIG Facades offer fast, flexible and reliable service, delivering your facade & construction products exactly when and where you need them. • Sound, impartial advice • Technical, specialist expertise and legislation guidance • Comprehensive ranges via our nationwide branch network • Products delivered exactly where and when you need them • Fast, flexible, reliable Construction’s Specialist Solution
Contact us today for more details or to arrange a site visit DUBLIN CORK BELFAST
01 4010 222 021 452 0202 028 9038 4745
www.sigca.ie www.sigfacades.ie
05
CIF NEWS
CONTENTS
CONSTRUCTION
Minister visit and AGM
5 CIF NEWS
49 DONEGAL
Minister visit and AGM
Talking with CIF members
13 PETER MCVERRY TRUST
53 GRANT THORNTON
CIF working with homeless charity
Report from conference
16 MBCA DINNER
54 PROJECT OF THE MONTH
Report and pictures from annual event
Chairman’s Arch, Cathedral Square, Waterford
19 KIRBY INTERVIEW
19
Jimmy Kirby on innovation
56 LEASING & HP
22 COVER STORY
Damien O’Sullivan from Baker Tilly offers advice
Talking heritage with the specialists
39 BCAR Q&A
57 CIS REPORT What’s happening in the market
All your questions answered
58 TRAINING
44 TENDERING
All the CIF courses
59 INDUSTRY NEWS Stories from wider construction sector
63 DIARY
Best practise guidelines
CIF meetings and events
47 PENSIONS UPDATE
64 LAST FIX
Susan O’Mara with some top tips
december 2015
Numbers, stats, facts & figures
13 22 16
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 03
CIF NEWS
Infrastructure development vital Minister tells CECA members The planned Metro project for north Dublin will be directly funded by the Exchequer and will not form part of any PPP deal, says the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe. Speaking to CECA members at a recent meeting in Construction House, Dublin, the Minister stated that this decision is a “clear stance” at the moment but future governments are likely to keep the decision under review. CECA members had gathered to hear the Minister discuss the capital programme. According to the President of the CECA Pat Lucey, the measures announced under the Public Capital Programme in September have the potential to make a very positive impact in the construction industry, and therefore the Irish economy more broadly, in terms of the quality of infrastructure available to meet the demands of a growing population and the needs of Foreign Direct Investment businesses. The CECA President, in stating that “we’re ready to deliver the next national plan”, said knowledge about timelines for projects was crucial for the sector. “I hope that’s the one thing you take from here,” he said to Minister Donohoe. “Civil engineering contractors have the capacity to respond rapidly to these public projects. The industry is certainly more efficient than ever before in terms of technology, machinery, expertise and project management. In order for projects under the Capital Works Programme to be successful however, the Government and the industry must collaborate in the broadest possible terms and the CECA is committed to working with the public sector to achieve the best possible result for the economy,” said Pat Lucey. The Minister said the Government “are now planning for the future so we can ensure that the improvements we have made are sustained and our objectives for the years ahead can be met”. “From my Department’s perspective, this means a €10 billion investment programme, which will protect the transport
(L-R) Pat Lucy, CECA President, Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Tom Parlon, CIF Director General and Martin Lang, CIF Director Main Contracting assets we already have, maintain and improve our road network and allow us to address rising levels of congestion which have come about due to increased economic activity. To secure our future, we have to make the right choices with the funds that are available to us. Investing in our infrastructure future with the aim of creating an additional 45,000 jobs by 2021 puts us on the right path.” The Minister also said Metro North has a planned launch date of 2026, with a construction start date in 2021. He mentioned the on-going maintenance of the 10,000km of road surfaces as a major priority, as well as upgrading sea ports to make them fit for purpose. A third lane of motorway between Naas and Newbridge is also planned. In response to questions the Minister said the mid-term review of the capital programme set for 2018 would have the absence of a Cork to Limerick motorway at the top of the list.
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe, speaking to CECA members, 27th November 2015
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 05
(l-r) Dominic Doheny, Senior Vice-President, Tom Parlon, Dirctor General, CIF President Michael Stone and George Hennessy, Chief Operations Officer at the CIF AGM
HSA launches new awareness campaign aimed at the construction sector
CIF AGM, Tuesday 24th November 2015
CIF Vice President Pat Lucey (left) and CIF Senior Vice President Dominic Doheny
The CIF AGM was held on Tuesday 24th November, 2015, at Construction House, Dublin. Michael Stone was re-elected President of the Federation, while Dominic Doheny and Pat Lucey are Senior Vice President and Vice President respectively. The CIF Annual Report 2015 was also published at the AGM. A digital copy of the report is available at www.cif.ie
06 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
The Health and Safety Authority is launching a new awareness raising campaign aimed at tackling the rising fatality rate and level of injuries in the construction sector. The new television ad – “Building is hard. Rebuilding is harder.” – is a graphic depiction of the typical tools used on construction sites placed alongside those used by medical professionals in operating theatres, the types of tools nobody ever wants to get close to in real life. The new TV ad will run across a range of channels including RTE, TV3, TG4, Sky and Channel 4 from today. According to Michael McDonagh, Head of Construction Policy with the Health and Safety Authority, “In the five-year period from 2010 to the end of 2014, 39 people lost their lives in constructionrelated activity. This was in the context of a major recession which saw a huge decline in construction activity. I am very concerned at the projected number of deaths over the coming years if current trends continue. “The construction industry is primed for growth and we are seeing many new projects at planning stage. In this context it is vital that we are proactive in raising awareness of the high levels of risk on construction sites and influencing attitudes and behaviours amongst construction workers.” Gavin Lonergan, Head of Communications with the Health and Safety Authority, said: “The new campaign is respectful of the tough job construction workers do on a daily basis. Our message is very clear: construction workers need to be alert and always work safely on sites or they risk getting up close and personal with tools of a different kind…the kind used by medical professionals.” The rate of fatalities in the construction sector fell sharply from 7.4 per 100,000 workers in 2004 to 4.1 in 2010, a period encompassing boom and bust. However, from 2010 onwards and despite the impact of the recession, the fatality rate for the construction sector increased steadily from 4.1 deaths per 100,000 workers in 2010 to 9.4 in 2013.
31139-Vp Equip Advert A4.qxp_Layout 1 03/12/2015 12:00 Page 1
WORKING IN A CONFINED SPACE?
ESS Safeforce is dedicated to your safety as the leading supplier of confined space safety equipment, training and rescue services. Equipment range includes: ■
Gas detection ■ Breathing apparatus ■ Working at heights
■
Confined space access ■ Environmental Monitoring ■ Asset management
Call today 1890 882 368 Ireland@ess-safeforce.com Unit A6, Clane Business Park, Clane, Co Kildare.
Construction Products Regulations briefing A recent CIF breakfast briefing concerning construction products regulations heard from John Wickham, who is a Senior Advisor with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government. The environment official said Construction Products Directive (CPR), 305/2011/ is about providing reliable information to the market. “A declaration of performance is vital component for CPR,” he said. “Oversight is done by market surveillance and administered by local authority. “They have power to stop circulation of products that fail to meet compliance.” He also said it’s important that specification personnel use harmonised (L-R) John Wickham, Senior Advisor with the Department of Environment, Community and tech specs. Local Government and Gerry Farrell, Chief Executive with the Irish Concrete Federation Keith Pheasey from ARC Management Systems said it is difficult to gauge CIF representative on the NSAI compliance levels. He said that the aggregates panel spoke about his structural steel sector would have been experience on the committee. viewed as a compliant industry in the Seamus gave an in-depth past so it was a shock to discover a 51% overview of guidance documents compliance level. (SR 21), saying the keys issues for Some companies are using the the construction sector is ensuring CE mark as a marketing tool but he compliance and “protecting acknowledged that for smaller firms yourself”. the cost of CE, in terms of new factory CIF Director Hubert Fitzpatrick processes, can be daunting. gave a summary of Building Control “There is a risk of being caught versus Regulations expectations. His advice a cost of compliance that many firms to CIF members at contract signing play,” he added. to agree with assigned certifier what Gerry Farrell, Chief Executive with products need a Declaration of the Irish Concrete Federation, said Performance. At present, he said, transparency for his organisation’s 100 there is a lack of clarity around what members was vital. the assigned certifier will examine at Seamus Duggan briefs CIF members “I would be disappointed if all our completion stage. member are not accredited ISEN 2006,” He also advised members that it is the construction sector. Traceability from ‘farm to he said. the builder who is held responsible The next steps for the industry included fork’ is critical in supply chain integrity, he added. if the company making the product Seamus Duggan, and MBCA member and more education on standards throughout goes bust.
Midland meeting Guest speakers at the CIF Midland branch meeting in the Tullamore Court Hotel on Tuesday, 3rd November were Michael Stone, CIF President and Tom Parlon, CIF Director General. The meeting was chaired by the CIF Midland Chairman, Gillian Murtagh.
08 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
SISK achieve ISO50001 accreditation CIF member firm John Sisk & Son Ltd has become one of the first Ireland & UK construction Companies to achieve ISO50001 accreditation, which is designed to implement, establish and maintain a continuous standard of energy reduction. This certification encompasses all the company’s offices, fleet, workshops and construction sites within its Irish & UK business units. The EU Energy Efficiency Directive 2012 Article 8 was transposed into UK (ESOS) and Irish Law (SI 426 ; 2014), thereby making it mandatory for large enterprises to identify their energy savings opportunities by way of an energy audit every four years , where a direct route to compliance through ISO 50001 accreditation was not already in place. With SISK operations in both Ireland and the UK already complying with ISOs 9001, 18001 and 14001, with the latter branding its business as environmentally responsible, the pursuit of ISO50001 was the next natural step and suited the Company’s well established integrated management system and business model. The SISK Energy Forum, formed in October 2014 and led by Building Services Department Manager Padraic O’Connor, aimed to take advantage of the extensive skills base that exist within the company. It comprises representatives from all 8 of its Irish and UK operational business units, with help and input from support functions such as Procurement, ICT / HR / Fleet and HSEQS working collaboratively to achieve the objective of ISO50001 certification. The starting point for the Energy Forum was to establish a baseline of the
(L-R) Paul Hackett, Director SISK, Padraic O’Connor, Services Manager, SISK, John Whyte, bsi group and Stephen Bowcott, Managing Director SISK
company’s energy use and to identify its Significant Energy Users (SEU’s). As a result of this analysis they identified the SEU’s as diesel for transport, diesel for site vehicles/equipment, electricity and gas. The Forum also established an Energy Opportunity for Improvement (OFI) register which in turn was used to develop Energy Action plans that the company are implementing in order to achieve the energy savings targeted for 2015/2016. One of the most significant challenges encountered was the analysis and comparison of key performance indicators for energy usage across all of their construction sites, as many
variables such as the type of project, duration, method of construction, site working times, site accommodation arrangements, commissioning duration etc. made it difficult to produce accurate comparative data. SISK’s focus in the shorter term is therefore to control the inputs to energy use by way of the introduction and planning of energy efficient designs to their temporary electrical installations, combined with procedures and guidelines in the use and selection of plant and equipment to help in the reduction of their energy usage. “Zero Energy Waste” is now the SISK energy policy in accordance with the company’s zero philosophy.
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 09
Health and Safety, Claims Management & Risk Surveys Web: www.prc.ie Mob: 087 4127603 Email: stephen@prc.ie
Stradone St, Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan
The company provides an effective, comprehensive, practical, common sense approach to health and safety. With this approach we help assist in keeping your sites accident/incident free whilst ensuring you meet your legal requirements under the various pieces of health and safety legislation. Health and Safety services provided by the company includes: • carrying out health and safety audits • all forms of health and safety training • undertaking the roles of PSDP and PSCS • preparation of safety documentation - safety statements, method statements, risk assessments, etc • provision of health and safety officers • assistance in preparation of tenders Insurance services provided: • Claims management – loss adjusting services for Insurers, Captives and Companies with high excesses • Risk surveying services Benefits from using Proactive Risk Control Ltd: ✔ Extremely well experienced health and safety professionals ✔ Qualified safety advisors ✔ A comprehensive, practical and common sense approach to health and safety ✔ The company has full insurance cover - including public and employers liability as well as professional indemnity ✔ Available 24/7 and we will address your needs in a very timely manner ✔ Experience of working in various environments including - construction sites (single dwellings to large developments), ESB stations, pharmaceutical plants, quarries, telecommunication sites wind farms, civils, sewage plants, factory environments ✔ Qualified insurance professionals
B(C)AR MBCA Guidance Document published The Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 came into operation on 1st March 2014, and apply to any development where a Commencement Notice is filed after that date. The regulations apply to: • the design and construction of a new dwelling • any extension to a dwelling involving a floor area of more than 40m2 • any works where a fire safety certificate is required. The aim of the regulations is to strengthen the current arrangements in place for the control of building activity by requiring greater accountability in relation to compliance with the building regulations in the form of statutory certification of design and construction, lodgement of compliance documentation, mandatory
inspections during construction and validation and registration of certificates. Given the new requirements, the Master Builders’ and Contractors’ Association formed a sub-committee to develop guidance for members on the operation of BC(A)R, setting out both the rights and obligations of members. The members of the sub-committee were Frank Kelly (Walls Construction), Mel O’Reilly (MDY Construction) and John O’Shaughnessy (Clancy) with support from Alison Irving. Further information on the development of the guidance, including interviews with the sub-committee members, will appear in a future issue of Construction magazine. The guidance document has now been published and is available in both hard copy and soft copy by contacting Alison Irving in CIF Head Office.
CIF Cork seeks urgent action on local housing crisis The CIF in Cork says that supply of housing in the city in no way matchs demand. According to CIF Regional Director, Conor O’Connell, statistics in the first 9 months of 2015 show that only 658 units commenced construction in Cork City & County. Of those 346 were one-off units which will not reach the market. Therefore in whole of Cork City & County for the first 9 months of 2015 it is likely that only 212 units will reach the market. It is estimated that the annual demand for housing in the Cork City & County area alone is in excess of 2,500 units per annum. “Recent reports from daft.ie showing an increase of 13.5% in rents in a three month period illustrate the growing crisis in the Cork Region in relation to housing supply,” says Conor O’Connell. “Housing is an essential item of infrastructure for society as a whole and for the success of the Cork economy.” The construction industry is being hampered in delivering this much needed housing infrastructure for Cork by a multitude of problems that have been created over the last number of years including: • a lack of development finance, • restrictions on mortgage availability, • a lack of serviced and zoned land, • increased regulatory costs • a lengthy planning process. “The issue of costs is one area that can be immediately addressed by the Government to ensure that proposed housing developments can become viable again,” says the Regional Director. “It is estimated that 40% of the cost of any house goes back to the Government in various levies and other forms of taxation. Costs need to be reduced immediately as this is the one area within the immediate control of the Government. VAT,
development contribution scheme charges, bonds and other charges and levies alone could amount to €50,000 per unit for a standard 3 bed semi-detached house. Other regulatory cost add to this taxation burden for anyone wishing to commence construction.” “Given these high regulatory cost, coupled with Central Bank rules which impose strict lending criteria on financial institutions to mortgage applicants means that the viability of a large number of developments is squeezed.” “If we are serious about addressing the growing crisis in housing supply, which is having dramatic effects on the rental market, on society as a whole and on inward investment then immediate measures must be introduced to tackle the cost structures within the industry and all the other factors that are limiting the supply of housing. Residential units can be and will be supplied by the private sector once development restrictions on the industry are addressed,” he said.
Background Statistics show that housing completions in Cork City & County are likely to remain at historically low levels. In 1970, which was the previous lowest year on record for housing completions, 13,887 units were constructed for a population of 2.9 million people. 2015 is likely to be the 5th year in a row where less than 12,000 units are constructed for a population of 4.57 million. In Cork alone there is an annual demand for 2,500 units for a population of 520,000. In Cork on average over the last 4 years only 1,200 units per annum have been constructed, mainly one off houses in rural or semi-rural locations which do not reach the market. The demand is for between 2,500 to 3,000 units most of it in the Cork Metropolitan area.
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 11
UNRIVALLED PROTECTION FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS HomeBond Insurance Services Ltd. provides two ‘first party’ insurance policies for newly built homes offering unrivalled protection* for up to 10 years for the first homeowner and any subsequent owners. Cover is available for homes in housing developments as well as individual homes on private sites.
Underwritten by Allianz plc with five elements of cover* for non-compliance in design, workmanship and/or materials of a functional requirement of the Building Regulations: • Structural Insurance – 10 years cover for the repair of major structural defects • Smoke Penetration / Water Ingress – 5 years cover for remedial work in the event of smoke penetration/water ingress. • Physical Danger – 5 years cover for certain physical fire safety risks (fire alarm detection systems, fire doors, fire stopping). • Damage – 5 years cover where damage affects the use of a significant portion of the habitable areas for ordinary and reasonable residential purposes (radon gas, plumbing and heating pipework, drainage systems, protection from falling at stairs, floors and balconies). • Loss of Deposit – Cover is provided for the first owner for the loss of money deposited for the construction or purchase of a new home.
Mechanical & Electrical Inherent Defects Insurance
5
CE
YEARS TD
E F E C T S IN
T
AN
CH ME
L & ELE ICA C
CAL RI
SU R A N CE
N
E
IN
ER
/10 5YEARS
AN
R
N T S D EFEC
IN H
Latent Defects Insurance
TE
TS
LA
The insurance policies are underwritten by two of the world’s leading insurance underwriters, who are both rated A++ (superior) by A.M. Best Company. All valid claims falling within the scope of the policies are dealt with by the underwriters.
SU
Underwritten by HSB Engineering Insurance Ltd with 5 years cover* for actual or impending damage arising from faulty or defective design, workmanship or materials in new mechanical and electrical fixed service equipment comprising: • Space and/or water heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems. • Lifts and fixed mobility equipment. • Electrical distribution and lighting. • Building security and environmental control. • Water and waste processing. This policy provides cover in respect of each occurrence of damage or impending damage which manifests itself or is discovered during the period of insurance.
Call: 1850 306 300** or Email: info@HomeBond.ie or Website: www.HomeBond.ie *Limits and exclusions apply. The cover details given in this advertisement are a summary of the covers provided. Full terms and conditions and obligations are set out in the Policy Documents, the Dwelling Registration Proposal Form, and the Rules for the HomeBond Membership Scheme. HomeBond Insurance Services Ltd. Construction House, Canal Road, Dublin 6. Tel: 1850 306 300 (call rates may apply) or info@HomeBond.ie. Website: www.HomeBond.ie. HomeBond Insurance Services Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and is a sub-agent of Arachas Corporate Brokers Ltd. trading as Arachas who are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and who are an appointed intermediary of Allianz plc. & HSB Engineering Insurance Ltd. Allianz plc. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. HSB Engineering Insurance Ltd is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the UK and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. **Call operator charges may apply.
CInsAd/01/0915
mcverry trust
CIF and Peter McVerry Trust building homes for the homeless As we go to press CIF member firms are working flat out to complete an important project for the Peter McVerry Trust. Brian Foley reports.
Deep in the heart of Dublin 2, Hogan Court is a hive of activity as CIF member firms and supporters rush to finish the refurbishment of 12 homes in time for Christmas. The plan is to be finished by December 18th, with the first tenants housed prior to Christmas day. Working with the Peter McVerry Trust, CIF members have been on site since early October. Led by site foreman Gary Elliot from Walls construction, CIF companies and supporters have donated time, resources, materials and staff to the project. The project involved extensive internal renovations of the properties, with new windows, electrics, plumbing, dry lining and improvements made to fire safety standards and ventilation. External works focussed on creating a more aesthetically appealing block of apartments and to improve disability access to the ground floor units. Landscaping of the green areas will add to the construction improvements and help achieve a significant improvement in the visual amenities in the community. CIF President Michael Stone visited the site at Hogan Court and was impressed with the contribution from CIF members. “The response from our member firms has been fantastic,” he said. “They are making a huge effort to have these 12 homes ready in time for Christmas. “When you add up all the man hours and materials donated by our members and supporters it comes to a value of €700,000. When you add in the price of all the appliances and household goods required, the project will have cost over €1m.”
CIF President Michael Stone and CIF Director General Tom Parlon at the Hogan Court site
The deadline for completion of the project is one week before Christmas, which means the pressure is on for site foreman Gary Elliott and his crew. Building works only commenced in early October but Gary says the project is progressing well. “As with all projects, issues arise on a weekly basis. We’ve just found out we need a supplier for steel handrails and someone to fit them.” As he chats about the project, the rain is teeming down – “it doesn’t help” – but Gary is easy going about the difficulties involved. “We’ll get there,” he says. According to Francis Doherty from the Peter McVerry Trust, Hogan Court is a block of 12 former local authority flats. “The units, which had
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 13
THE CEMENT
YOU TRUST
Irish Cement products are the first in Ireland to be awarded the BES 6001 Excellent rating. For over 75 years our customers have trusted Irish Cement products, manufactured using local raw materials.
4834 Irish Cement A4 Bag Advert Update F.indd 1
ECO-EFFICIENT BES 6001
CO2 Reduced Carbon Cement
Made in Ireland
Responsibly Sourced
www.irishcement.ie
04/09/2015 09:07
mcverry trust
been used predominantly to provide housing to older individuals, had fallen into very poor state of repair. Vandalism and dereliction meant that many of the units required extensive renovation in order to make them habitable,” he says. “In order to secure the units a partnership between Peter McVerry Trust, Dublin City Council and the CIF’s members and supporters was agreed. The CIF’s members and supporters agreed to meet the significant expense involved in carrying out the works needed. Peter McVerry Trust, together with its architects Fitzgerald Kavanagh and partners have supported the project delivery through technical support and smaller financial contributions.”
Contractors
Over 35 member firms signed up to help, along with ten other companies, all to help build and fit-out the 12 units. Imtech Suir Engineering is one CIF member working hard on site and Dave Flanagan, Project Manager with the company, explains what they’re doing: “We’ve come on board to help project manage the M&E (mechanical & electrical) side of the project,” he says. “We’re lucky that we have seven companies helping out so we’ve subdivided the M&E work between us.” The M&E side of the project has 12 men working on site, drawn from the seven companies who committed to helping out. As for challenges, he says space for suppliers is tight but the “lads are going well”. Besides donating time and man hours to the project Imtech Suir is also supplying all the mechanical materials the site requires. “Winthrop are supplying all the electrical materials,” he adds. “Everyone is eager to help,” he says.
Site foreman Gary Elliot (Walls Construction) and CIF Director Sean Downey
Who will live in Hogan Court?
The new tenants will be individuals taken from Dublin City Council’s housing list including people coming directly from homeless services. Each individual,l regardless of their level of need will have the support of Peter McVerry Trust’s highly skilled housing support team. This team will work to ensure that tenancies are sustained and that residents are supported to integrate into their community by partaking in education, training and employment. An on site caretaker will also aid the work of the housing with supports team.
About Peter McVerry Trust
Established in 1983 by Fr Peter McVerry the charity works with individuals at risk of, or experiencing homelessness, primarily in the Dublin region. Peter McVerry Trust provides a wide range of services in the areas of prevention, housing, homelessness, under 18s residential and drug treatment. In 2015 the charity expects to work with over 7,500 participants, the majority of whom are young, single people. C #cifbigbuild
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 15
Large gathering celebrate MBCA Dinner
L-R: Michael Stone, CIF President; Terry Prone, Guest Speaker; John O’Shaughnessy, MBCA President; Ger O’Leary, ECA President.
The Annual MBCA Dinner took place on Friday 6th November 2015 in the Double Tree in Dublin.
L-R: Orla Brady, MBCA Administrator; John O’Shaughnessy, MBCA President; Martin Lang, MBCA Secretary; Alison Irving, MBCA Executive
16 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
T
he event was very well attended with over 500 attendees from member companies as well as distinguished guests of the Association in attendance. These guests included representatives from, among others, the Government Construction Contracts Committee, Office of Government Procurement, Irish Water, Department of Education, Institute of Structural Engineers, Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland and Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. Prior to the meal, President John O’Shaughnessy presented a ‘President’s Pin’ to a number of past Presidents of the Association - Mike Jones (BAM) MBCA President 2011, Paul Stewart (Stewart) MBCA President 2014 and Frank Kelly (Walls Construction) MBCA President 2013. Presentations of cufflinks were also made to the following members of the MBCA who have made a significant contribution to the work of the Association - John Curtin (PJ Hegarty & Sons) for his work on the Liaison Committee; Michael J. Clarke (MJ Clarke & Sons Ltd) – cufflinks collected on his behalf by his daughter, Rachel Clarke; Mel O’Reilly (MDY Construction) for his work chairing the CIRI/Building Control Amendment Regulations Committee; and Philip Crampton (G&T Crampton Ltd) for his work chairing the Procurement, Tendering & Contractual Matters Committee.
MBCA John O’Shaughnessy, MBCA President
L-R: Mike Jones (BAM) MBCA President 2011; John O’Shaughnessy (Clancy Construction) MBCA President 2015; Paul Stewart (Stewart) MBCA President 2014; Frank Kelly (Walls Construction) MBCA President 2013
L-R: John Curtin (PJ Hegarty & Sons); Rachel Clarke (MJ Clarke & Sons Ltd); John O’Shaughnessy, MBCA President; Mel O’Reilly (MDY Construction); Philip Crampton (G&T Crampton Ltd) Terry Prone, a leading reputation management consultant and crisis management expert, advising corporations, governments and individuals, made a guest speech. Ms Prone is Chairman of The Communications Clinic and former Managing Director of Carr Communications, and has published 26 books including eight criticallyacclaimed novels, an award-winning collection of short stories and more than a dozen practical guidebooks, and has a weekly column with The Irish Examiner.
After dinner entertainment was provided by Risteard Cooper of Après Match fame, who delighted those present with his repertoire of impersonations ranging from An Taoiseach Enda Kenny to Olympic Gold Medal winning boxer Katie Taylor. Ivan Webb Scholarship awards were also presented to students of the School of Surveying and Construction Management at the Dublin Institute of Technology. The Ivan Webb Scholarship is awarded to students of the first, second and final years of the Bachelor of
Science in Construction Management degree, and for the second time this year a “Back to Education” award was presented to a student of the School of Surveying and Construction Management. The winners of the awards were as follows: • First year whole time, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management - Mark Stuart • Second year whole time, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management Frankie Mulvey • Back to Education Award School of Surveying and Construction Management - Conor Cassidy • Gold Medal Award, Bachelor of Science in Construction Management - Vincent Byrne During the course of the meal, the President John O’Shaughnessy of Clancy Construction, addressed those in attendance. In a well-received speech the President said partnership was the key to success. “From my experience in this industry and I’m sure it applies to the majority of the people present here tonight the most successful projects are the ones where all the stakeholders involved work in partnership to deliver projects to the satisfaction of our clients,” he said. C
Guest Speaker Terry Prone
Risteard Cooper
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 17
COLLABORATION INNOVATION EXCELLENCE
Innovative engineering and construction solutions delivered the ‘Kirby Way’
Dublin • Galway • Limerick • London • Warrington • Glasgow • Brussels
Construction magazine (CIF) Nov 2015.indd 1
20/11/2015 12:14:55
jimmy kirby
“A new idea must deliver value to the customer”
O Jimmy Kirby, Executive Chairman with Kirby
Construction editor Brian Foley speaks to Jimmy Kirby, Executive Chairman of Kirby, about innovation and a digital construction future.
n the Kirby website the Executive Chairman is described as someone who “oversees the strategic development process; identifies strategic options and promotes a culture of innovation”. Traditionally the Irish construction sector has been slow to innovate but for Jimmy Kirby the need to find better solutions is a core company value. “We find working with American organisations is a very positive experience,” he says. “They are driven by innovation. “In our experience American organisation have moved Irish construction in relevant sectors to a world class level since the 1980s. The likes of Pfizer and Intel demanded more and we had to deliver. “At a project level Americans ignore the usual hierarchy model, using a flat structure so it’s all about what you can contribute.” Jimmy says that Foreign Direct Investment has helped Irish construction become world class in mechanical and electrical delivery.
What’s the Kirby attitude to BIM? “BIM was introduced as a project requirement three years ago,” he explains. “We implemented a pilot project, from which we learned a great deal.” He talks enthusiastically about how BIM will bring about “efficiency gains” in the medium to long term, but there is an
initial major investment in skills and people required. “We’re in a position now where our BIM experience means clients look to us to lead projects. We’ve proven Kirby has the capabilities.” Although he feels BIM has the capacity to change construction culture, the full potential of BIM will only be realised in an effective collaborative environment. “Getting people to work together can be a challenge,” he says. “You might have a design company feeding in drawing from India, for example. “As M&E engineering contractor we can only influence where the project should be heading. The client needs to lead; the chance of success is lessened without that leadership. “A cultural change is required. It’s the classic situation where people need to be guided through a change process.”Jimmy says the benefits of BIM have to be properly explained: “A lot of people pay lip service but the challenge is to get stuck in and make it work to the benefit of the project.”
What about the UK Government’s decision to mandate BIM in all projects from 2016?
“One of the reasons the British Government has a stated intention of requiring collaborative 3D BIM on it’s projects is to reduce the capital cost by 20%. This type of capital cost reduction will take some time to achieve.”
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 19
jimmy kirby
BIM issues
“This will succeed at project level only if people start using the tools and genuinely working together,” says Jimmy. He mentions that graduates – who have the IT skills – need to work closely with more experienced older staff that possess the construction skills. “They need to learn from each other,” he says.
Lean
“Lean remains broadly conceptual at present ,” says Jimmy. “There are opportunities for Lean within the construction industry. It means everyone working together for benefit of the project rather than individual organisations working on their own, which can be challenging given that we’re in a commercially driven and competitive environment.”
Innovation
“Innovation at Kirby is about successfully implementing an idea. A new idea must deliver value to the customer and/or the organisation. The idea must also be in alignment with the overall competitive strategy.” Jimmy says the introduction of online ‘part’ inductions is a good example of a successful innovation. “We also introduced tablets to the field, which enabled efficiencies and resultant verified savings,” he adds. Kirby looks to its staff for new ideas. “A new capability to match an opportunity that delivers for the customer and Kirby.”
Effective Integrated Project Development (IPD)
“Larger organisations with significant capital outlays are looking at this,” says Jimmy. “ Larger pharmas in the UK see value in this approach. “Where they see the value is getting people working in the interest of the project.” Kirby used IPD on a recent project where they achieved a • verifiable saving of 17% on capital cost reduction. • IPD is about people working in the interest of the project, says Jimmy. “Done well it creates the environment where Lean and BIM tools can be effectively used.” • Speaking about the recent project, he says it was only when all parties came on board with the ideas being attempted that progress was made. • “We contributed strongly to making this work for the project and it was viewed • as a big success by the customer.”
Benefits of IPD
“Conflict in the industry happens ,” says Jimmy. “IPD is an approach that helps overcome conflict. “Early contractor engagement is a key part of IPD, something that is playing an increasingly important role in construction. Sharing information earlier and building trust under effective leadership – these are the benefits of IPD, he says. Clear definition of construction scope and early identification of risks are further benefits. “This is something we really believe in,” is how Jimmy sums up IPD. “BIM can work well in that IPD environment,” he adds.
Outlook
“We’re positive about the medium term with strong growth rates in Ireland and UK,” says Jimmy. “We have experienced serious growth in both markets. There is a strong UK focus where we have three offices. We are also working on a number of projects in Europe. Kirby had a turnover of €119m in 2014 while this year the company expects to generate €140m. With over 600 staff the focus remains on data centres, power generation, bio-pharmaceutical and industrial manufacturing market segments. The company is determined to stay at the forefront of innovation and a digital future. “The construction industry is currently experiencing a technology spike in terms of new methods of how we design and build. I think this ‘spike’ will leave some organisations and people behind,” says Jimmy. “Strong leaders and leadership exists in the construction industry, it’s a case of applying this leadership to IPD and BIM. A collective industry-wide approach is the challenge.” C Jimmy holds a Master of Business Studies degree with honours from University College Cork and has been a Kirby Board Director since 1997.
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 21
Protecting the nation’s heritage 22 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
cover story
Brian Foley speaks to heritage contractors and discovers a deep satisfaction working on projects with important historical significance. November 2015 CONSTRUCTION 23
Coldridge Scaffolding Ltd, Dunsoghly Lane, St Margarets, Co Dublin Director Joseph Draper. PH: 0872537102 Company landline: 018344444
McCarthy & Associates provide a holistic project management service to discerning clients who want the best balance of quality, functionality and value for their projects across all sectors. Clients include • Gresham Palace Four Seasons Hotel, Budapest • Four Seasons Hotel, Prague • Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin • Kileen Castle • Ashford Castle • Adare Manor • Yasmin Hotel, Prague • Shelbourne Hotel
Histon House, Cornelscourt Village, Dublin 18, Ireland Phone: +353 1 289 7822 Fax: +353 1 289 7854 Mobile. +353 87 259 5293 E-mail: Justin@mcca.ie Website: www.mcca.ie
cover story
‘‘
This is a project I’ve waited my whole life for
The Shelbourne Hotel is a “once in a lifetime” project, says Dermot Collier
F
or Dermot Collier it’s the project of his dreams. “It’s a great honour to be chosen to complete this project,” he says. The project in question is, of course, the restoration of the world famous Shelburne Hotel. “This is a project I’ve waited my whole life for,” adds Dermot, who is managing director of Acol. “The fact is we beat main contractors for the job, the client went straight to a heritage specialist,” he says. Like all heritage projects, the Shelbourne Hotel presents its own challenges. The work includes: sympathetic cleaning and repointing (tuck pointing) of 99,480 bricks; restoration and replacement where required of 260 sash windows, including 14 Dormer windows; and the restoration and replacement of 170 chimney pots, including 36 pots on one stack, possibly Ireland’s largest chimney. There is also the fact that while the Acol team is
’’
on site the hotel remains open for business. The current project has its roots back in the winter of 2010/2011 – the big freeze – which caused parts of the hotel façade to literally fall away. “We assessed the building and roof, and developed a restoration plan with conservation architect Alistair Lindsay,” explains Dermot. In 2014, Shelbourne Hotel approved the restoration plan and a 12-month restoration contract began onsite in February 2015. “Is there a better example of heritage construction in action?” asks Dermot. “The Shelbourne is an iconic building and we’re delighted the project will be completed in time for the 1916 celebrations.” Speaking about the Register of Heritage Contractors, Dermot says membership of the register was essential to winning such a prestigious project. “It’s also a comfort for the client and design
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 25
cover story
Justin McCarthy (left), managing director of McCarthy & Associates with Dermot Collier
McCarthy & Associates – project managers “The last project I worked on that was as highly ornate as the Shelbourne was the Gresham Palace in Budapest,” says Justin McCarthy, managing director of McCarthy & Associates. “I thought I’d never get another chance like that – till the Shelbourne project came along.” With an impressive track record working both on hotel projects and on historically significant buildings in general, McCarthy & Associates might seem like a natural choice as project managers here. “We also worked on Ashford Castle and Killeen Castle and we are at Adare Manor at the moment,” adds Justin. “We understand hotels and how they work,” he adds. “We also understand that historical buildings are all quite unique in their own ways.” This of course means countering unique challenges with practical responses. Take the brickwork at the Shelbourne – what is known as wig and tuck pointing is a cosmetic treatment to old, irregular brickwork that was originally cast on-site. It involves using two colours of lime mortar, one being natural white and the other being the colour of the actual bricks. Other challenges included those associated with the Roman Cement mouldings. There were many layers of paint on these. “Areas that appeared to be solid literally fell off into our hands, when we took the paint off,” says Justin. “Anything that didn’t fall out we had to pin. Full sections or parts of sections were remoulded and married into what was good.
26 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
“They were also pinned and the whole lot was hand-crafted together.” The nature of this work means that decisions must be made on a daily basis as things unfold. “It is unlike other projects in that you can’t always plan too far ahead in the same detail as you might at other times,” says Justin. “We refer to the Shelbourne as ‘The Old Lady and she tells her own story at her own pace. “Both ourselves as project managers and the design team have to respond as the challenges present themselves and we have to respond sympathetically. “There isn’t a week that goes by where you are not responding to challenges as they are discovered.” At the end of the day McCarthy & Associates act as leaders for the entire team. “We sit down every week with the design team and contractor and meet separately with the hotel representatives and we manage the disruption process between the hotel and contractors,” says Justin. Meanwhile, members of the project management and design team are on the scaffold at the Shelbourne every single day. “It is challenging but very, very rewarding work,” says Justin. “It is work you don’t come across on a regular basis.” And as for the work of the Irish professionals on the Shelbourne project, Justin is extremely happy: “I was very impressed by the skills of everyone on the team,” he says. “Everyone involved should be really proud of themselves – they’ve done a fantastic job!”
L&M Keating staff working at the Castlefore Weir team to known you have the experience.”
Stand back
For Lorchan Hoyne from L&M Keating, heritage contracting is about understanding the project. “You have to think about what you’re doing,” he says. “The instinct in construction is simply to ‘get the job done’ but in heritage you need to stand back and assess what is required.” According to Lorchan much of the work is done before moving on site. “It takes time to understand what the client and design team want,” he says. “The big challenge is that much of the scope is educated guess work. Until you take off the plaster you can’t be 100% sure.” Heritage engineering is another important speciality L&M Keating offer to clients. An example is the Portumna Bridge, spanning the River Shannon on the border between Counties Galway and Tipperary. Both bridges consist of three 30m span steel superstructures with concrete deck slabs. The works included the full shot blasting and repainting of both structures under complete environmental enclosures, the structural repair of defective steelwork and the waterproofing of the reinforced concrete carriageway slab.
Staff
A fact of life for many working in the construction sector is the move to sub contracting. In the heritage sector that can be problematic as essential skills training is lost as staff are let go.
SIG Ireland Advert 2016 CIF Full Page 5mm Bleed.pdf 1 23/10/2015 15:22:43
CONSTRUCTION ACCESSORIES
FACADES
INSULATION
INTERIORS
ROOFING
TECHNICAL INSULATION
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
From groundworks to the roof and everything in-between, SIG Ireland delivers the full range of specialist building materials for your construction project, nationwide. SIG can bring expert knowledge in specialist products to individual market sectors. Education Health Commercial & Industrial Residential Renovation, Maintenance & Improvement
For more information please visit www.sig.ie or email enquiries@sig.ie Construction’s Specialist Solution
www.sig
Specialist Services to the Construction Industry > Civil/Structural Engineering Consultants > Condition Surveys > Detailed Inspection and Non-Destructive Materials Testing > Corrosion Specialists > Cathodic Protection Specialists > Structural Health Monitoring We provide innovative and bespoke ‘state of the art’ structural monitoring and repair solutions tailored for your structure so that its future serviceable life can be extended
Unit A3, Harbour Court, Sydenham Business Park, 5 Heron Road, Belfast Tel: +44 (0) 28 90738100 Mob: +44 (0) 77 74706730 Email: info@mcfassoc.com Web: www.mcfassoc.com
cover story
This L&M Keating project involved the partial demolition, rebuilding, extension and complete renovation and refurbishment of the Limerick Gallery of Art.
Carbon Group Tom Kelleher, technical sales manager with Carbon Group is clearly passionate about the Shelbourne project. “This is a very prestigious contract for Carbon to be involved on,” he says. Carbon Group’s head office is in Cork and its Dublin branch is the coatings specialist division. They are specifiers and agents for International industrial paint and Rustoleum/Mathys specialist systems. Of the Shelbourne project, Tom explains that the brief here was to provide coatings for the Roman stucco cement mouldings on the exterior to the Kildare Street and Saint Stephen’s Green frontage of the historic building. These areas were subject to a lot of attention during the project and contribute to the building’s unique appearance and character.
“The specification requirements were for a breathable, waterproof, elastomeric coating,” says Tom. “The coating had to be flexible enough to move with the expansion and contraction of heat and cold. “We proposed a Rustoleum / Mathys Murfill system to cover all requirements. Preparation involved removal of all existing paint and repairs by ACOL Ltd. “Dermot’s applicators stripped all the old coatings and did the required repairs and there was a clear primer/ sealer called Mathys Pegafix put on, followed by Murfill WP system finish in Cream.” At the end of the day Tom Kelleher is clearly very pleased to have been a part of this project. “Dermott’s enthusiasm for the work and attention to detail is infectious,” he says. “I spoke about nothing else but the Shelbourne project for months!”
‘‘
You develop a sense of appreciation for the skill levels of those who were involved in the original construction
’’
“As much as possible we use our own guys, or bring in sub contractors that are tried and tested,” says Lorchan. “You need to be able to trust sub contractors. For instance, lime is crucial in heritage contracting - it’s such a volatile substance – so you need guys who know how to handle it. “That’s a key aspect of heritage contracting, you need to have those people you can trust.”
Kilcawley Construction
As a company Kilcawley Construction – one of Ireland’s longest established contracting companies – has a lot of experience in the heritage area and has been involved in a number of high profile buildings. Over more than eight decades the company has built and worked on many landmark projects and many of the latter would fit comfortably under the umbrella term: “heritage
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 29
cover story
‘‘
In heritage you need to stand back and assess what is required
’’
works”. Kilcawley has been involved in Sligo Cathedral, Gillooly Memorial Hall and Hazelwood House in Sligo to name just a few. Of this area of work, managing director Brendan Henry – whose son Brendan Junior is now also very involved in this aspect of the business – explains that there can be many challenges but that it is also very rewarding. Brendan points out the need to be very conscious of and sympathetic to existing finishes that are in place. Having good staff is crucial of course. You need good masons and carpenters and plasterers, for example. “You need good tradespersons who are familiar with this type of work and with the materials such as lime mortar,” adds Brendan. “This is very important.” The good news is that the skills are still there albeit that those involved do tend to be towards the older end of the spectrum sometimes. Meanwhile sourcing can be a challenge of course. There are salvage yards out there to help but matching existing items and materials can be difficult at times, notes Brendan. “Off and on we have to reproduce work
Kenmare Church, Kerry, undergoing refurbishment
Traditional Lime Company Founder of the Traditional Lime Company Ed Byrne has been working with Dermot Collier for 15 years. “He would be one of our most high profile customers because of projects like the Shelbourne,” says Ed, who was one of the first in Ireland to go in for what is called “architectural salvage”. After becoming the first person ever to do an English Heritage Master Class in West Dean College in Chichester, a friend, the conservation architect John Ashurst observed that no one in Ireland was importing natural hydraulic lime commercially.
John recommended Ed to St. Astier and the rest, as they say, is history. At the Shelbourne they have been using a product called Vicat Prompt. Vicat Prompt “is the ultimate in hydraulic limes/natural cement,” says Ed. “Invented in the late eighteenth century it was called Roman Cement. This is what was used originally on the Shelbourne,” explains Ed. The “father of hydraulic lime” in France was a man called Vicat – hence the name, says Ed who is clearly passionate about his area of specialisation! Modern product might be more refined or consistent because of the
production methods used although these have remained largely the same, adds Ed. Essentially there is an unbroken line in France back to 1820 when the French first started making this product. Clear advantages include longevity and purity and the product is waterproof and quick-binding. One of the aspects of working with Vicat Prompt is that it sets very quickly, stresses Ed. “You really have to get across to people how quickly it sets,” he stresses. “Everything has to be done within the specified setting times.”
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 31
cover story Advance Glazing With over 260 windows to refurbish, sash window specialists and restorers Advance Glazing had a big role to play in restoring the Shelbourne to glory. This is a major success story. At one point it was actually thought that the windows were not salvageable, recalls company director Thomas Deery, who had worked for the Shelbourne doing repair work before becoming involved in this project. Though based in County Louth Thomas says that they will normally carry out this sort of work on a client’s site when possible. This is particularly the case where there is a time factor involved. On the Shelbourne project, Advance Glazing set up a workshop across the road on Kildare Street and this became the centre of operations. “All we had to do was take the windows across the street and put them
McFarland Associates “Cathodic protection is an electrochemical treatment which arrests the corrosion process of steel in concrete,” explains the general manager with McFarland Associates, Enda McKenna. “We were asked to investigate and provide remedial recommendations for the corroding steel channels within the upper external elevations of the structure at the Shelbourne,” says Enda. “The corrosion of the embedded steelwork was generating sufficient stresses to the cover concrete to cause the cracking which would ultimately have resulted in delamination and spalling. “We undertook a series of tests on the concrete and found that it contained clinker material which was very porous in nature and was fully carbonated to the level of steel, thus offering little corrosion protection. “We decided that the best course of action was to install a hybrid cathodic protection system to arrest any corrosion going forward.” The installed anodes were given a burst of current from a temporary 12V power source for approximately 10 days and then they were
on the benches,” says Thomas. “Then we stripped the old paint off and got to work.” This work generally involved repairing or replacing any rotten or damaged parts, including glazing bars and glass, then sanding, priming, painting and reinstalling. That may sound simple but this is specialist work. “We have six full-time people working on this,” says Thomas. “They are all carpenters by trade but many had never worked on a sash window before they started with me.” As for the main problems encountered in this sort of work, these often involve rot, says Thomas and there are often legacy issues from various repairs carried out over the years. This is not surprising perhaps – in the case of these windows at the Shelbourne, ninety per cent are over a hundred and fifty years old, says Thomas.
connected directly to the steel to corrode preferentially to the steelwork, explains Enda. “The system was designed to offer protection of one hundred years,” adds Enda. McFarland Associates also installed a monitoring system whereby they can assess the situation remotely. Trigger values have been set so that if
from years ago,” he says, “but we try to buy material in.” In relation to aspects such as working on cornices the team could be involved in reproducing the existing work but with materials like slates it is usual to try to source them if possible. Meanwhile, there are a lot of good specialist contractors out there who are dealing with things like sash windows, for example, notes Brendan. One result of working on historic buildings, says Brendan is that you develop a sense of appreciation for the skill levels of those who were involved in the original construction. It is a nice area to be involved in, he says and it gives a great insight and appreciation to what was accomplished years ago. “There was no high-tech machinery, then – it was all by hand. These were marvellous tradesmen,” says Brendan. C Additional reporting by Martin Foran
something unexpected happens in the future, texts or emails can be sent to nominated personnel. “It was a challenging project in that we were well aware of the structure’s historical prominence in Ireland,” says Enda. “This meant that any system installed had to be fully embedded and require little or no future maintenance.”
Installed anodes at the Shelbourne Hotel
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 33
e e
st ds
Register of Heritage Contractors explained There is growing awareness of the social and economic importance of conserving our built heritage of urban and rural areas, writes Jeanette Mair, CIF Executive and manager of the Register of Heritage Contractors.
T
here is an ever-increasing demand for main and specialist heritage contractors who have the knowledge and skills to conserve and restore the wide range of structures and sites in Ireland. The success of any project is reliant on the knowledge, experience, competence, general attitude and approach of the contractor who carries it out. The skills of the craftsmen and effective organisation of the work are essential. The Register of Heritage Contractors, which was established following initial research and development under the EU Adapt initiative in 2000, provides an accredited list of such competent main contractors and specialist contractors in the field of built heritage conservation. The register is overseen by an independent board comprised of senior figures from the construction industry, the professions, third level institutions and conservation bodies (Construction Industry Federation, Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, Office of Public Works, The Heritage Council, Irish Georgian Society, Limerick Institute of Technology, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Fingal County Council). The board works to ensure that all heritage projects in the fields of conservation and restoration meet the highest quality standards. Heritage contractors are assessed against prescribed standards by an assessment committee, which reports to the main board. Requirements for registration include; prior validated experience, business/industry requirements, and the requirement for annual renewal and continuous professional learning and development. All registered contractors are required to observe a Code of Ethics. The Register of Heritage Contractors thus represents an increasingly regarded quality standard for contracting within the field of conservation and restoration (heritage) projects. Corresponding to the category(ies) for which registration is sought, an applicant must provide three project references for work(s) completed during the previous five years and corresponding letters of acceptance or declarations of completion or attestations of satisfactory execution. Project references must include: • Detailed photographic evidence (before and after) of works completed. • Report of approximately 1,000 words on works carried out on projects, demonstrating awareness of good conservation practice, for example a brief method statement can be included. • A qualified professional shall sign the project reference forms; this must be a Grade 1 or Grade 2 conservation architect, engineer or building surveyor. • An applicant should also aim to demonstrate points (a) to (i) below in each reference project submitted:
34 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
(a) Demonstrate careful research and preparation for conservation works. Practical evidence of this should be submitted; (b) Demonstrate an understanding of the value of materials being conserved, both physical quality and cultural value; (c) The conservation principle of minimum intervention and the concept of adding to a structure and only taking something away when it is absolutely necessary; (d) Competence of technical execution of works; (e) No damage done to the surroundings – capable of taking care; (f) Understanding the difference between restoration and conservation. Restoration faithful to original in replacement works, e.g. re-slating; (g) Demonstrate capacity to collaborate to devise appropriate works, during the course of the project, say, with briefing relevant specialist heritage sub-contractors; (h) Demonstrate knowledge of the market for specialist skills and materials or components; and (i) To accept or propose changes of methodology required to minimize intervention due to unanticipated site conditions, or, to have the capacity to do things more than one way. Registered heritage contractors are advantaged when it comes to tendering for heritage work not only by virtue of their registered status but also by the level of traditional skilled personnel inhouse. Government investment in this sector is beginning to mirror the long held view of the heritage contracting industry itself, which is that targeting investment in this skilled sector results in the creation of sustainable construction jobs and contributes to economic regeneration. Furthermore, jobs created in conservation tend to be locally based in small to medium sized enterprises and are spread evenly across the country. Support for traditional building and conservation skills is essential to the on-going repair of our built heritage. And it is widely acknowledged that the economic recession severely impacted construction to the extent that the industry now faces a serious skills deficit. If you are interested and would like to have an informal discussion with regard to heritage registration, please contact Jeanette Mair, Manager of the Register of Heritage Contractors, CIF by Tel: 014066035 or Email: jmair@cif.ie. For clients, a full list of Registered Heritage Contractors is available on the register’s dedicated website. Further information, news and events, together with applications forms and guidelines, is also available on the website: www. heritageregistration.ie. CIF Training Course: ‘Conservation Theory for Heritage Contracting’ will take place on 28th January 2016. To book: http://cif.ie/training-and-development/building-regulationstraining-courses.html C
cover story
conserving our national heritage
King John’s Castle, Limerick. A recent L&M Keating project.
With an industry wide emphasis for new buildings and the quality of construction and compliance with regulation, it is important that current levels of conservation skills and the future need for conservation training are also in focus.
T
here is an ongoing need for experienced contractors, sub-contractors and specialist craftspeople to maintain and conserve our heritage buildings. Throughout the recession in the building industry many firms have struggled to retain staff and, critically, to bring new apprentices through into the sector. Last year, the first formal apprenticeship courses in stonemasonry and stonecutting commenced with training, through SOLAS, for the Office of Public Works and the enthusiasm of the apprentices in our six depots around the country is very positive for the future. Other trades have apprenticeship programmes but there are still significant gaps. Though the many fine copper and lead domes that enhance the skyline of our cities point to a strong tradition in metal roofing and while there are a number of competent firms in the sector the overall standard needs to be improved. The fact there is no accredited training in roofing and metalwork in Ireland has to be addressed. Government, educators and employers need to work together to manage the balance between conservation and new build to maintain a sustainable competent workforce for the future. In this regard the grouping of heritage contractors within the Construction Industry Federation has promoted an awareness of the knowledge required and potential for skills development across not just main
contractors but also many subcontractors. The Heritage Contactors Registration Board recently hosted a gathering of industry representatives with many of the leading mechanical and electrical subcontracting firms. Not only did these firms very much appreciate the role they can play in preserving the character of the building they are working on, they also expressed frustration at a perceived lack of appreciation of the need for innovative approaches in specification documentation. Service installations are necessary insertion into our historic and cultural buildings so that they can be protected as well as visited by the public. There needs to be an exchange of knowledge and experience between both conservation professionals and the construction industry. Ingal Maxwell chairman of the Council on Training in Architectural Conservation (COTAC) speaking at the ICOMOS annual lecture in Dublin Castle pointed to the need for consultants, contractors and craftsmen to have recognised levels of competency, which are updated on an ongoing basis to ensure best practise. It is in all our interests and in the interest of future generations that the combined knowledge of all involved required in conservation projects is utilised to the fullest extent possible. John Cahill is Assistant Principal Architect in the Office of Public Works, with responsibility for the maintenance and conservation of national monuments, cultural institutions and historic buildings. C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 35
One-stop shop for the construction industry
Fosroc Waterproofing
Wall Ties & Restraints Isotec DSD Shear Load Connectors
Starter Bar Couplerbox
Lifting Accessories
Now supplying full range of
Tie Bar Accessories
products in Ireland. Toughers Industrial Estate, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare T : 045 438691 F : 045 438690 NORTHERN IRELAND DEPOT 105 Culcavey Rd, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6HH T : 028 9039 6036 - sales@plakagroup.ie
cover story
Heritage Contracting – a view from the Heritage Council When I was doing some research on the historic buildings of Letterkenny, I interviewed an older architect, who remembered the precise point (was it around 1960? ) when craftsmen stopped talking about their work in terms of pieces that they had completed, and began talking about it in terms of the money they earned on a job, writes Colm Murray.
T
he Heritage Council has supported and participated on the Board of the Register of Heritage Contractors since its inception, because there are builders who are interested in quality, and who want to wear their excellence as a badge of honour. It is not a surprise that these builders gravitate to conservation projects, which are complex, and therefore interesting and rewarding. In conservation, quality matters to the client and the architect, and its achievement is demanded and recognised. Nor is it a surprise that the procedures adopted by the Registration Board to assure the quality of its members were available as a model for CIRI when the wider building industry needed them. Building control legislation, commenced in March 2014, demands that the owner of every building must ensure that ‘competent’ personnel are utilised to carry out building works and that the works are certified to conform to the Building Regulations. The introduction of the legislation has been swift, radical and remains controversial. The new model of regulation and certification relies on client, designer and builder having duties to demonstrate their competence, and the competence of the people they employ. In this system, the State plays no role in quality assurance – it is entirely privatised, or internalized within the interaction of the principal actors and the providers of insurance. With the emphasis on the competence of the protagonists rather than the enforcement of standards by outside agents with oversight, a quite different view of ‘quality assurance’ is likely to emerge, based on liability and obligations. In the Netherlands, it is proposed to do away with their version of planning permission for works to what we would call protected structures. This is made possible by a stable and reliable system of building procurement, and tried and tested training systems that ensure that the skills to maintain and reuse the Dutch building stock are available. The current GCCC Form of contract is not fit for purpose on conservation/heritage projects. This contract was developed to transfer risk to the contractor in the context of larger public works contracts. It may be effective in more normal construction projects but is inequitable on conservation/ heritage projects. It produces an unfair system of tendering where an experienced and knowledgeable contractor who prices the works based on producing a quality-based result, cannot
compete in the market. Also, the new contract removed the Bill of Quantities as a principal document and the opportunity to utilise provisional sums for unforeseen works that inevitably occur on these projects. The previous practice of ‘nominating’ specialist sub-contractors allowed for quality assurance through better control for complex packages of works within the contract based on quality rather than costs. This, too, is gone from the current form of contract. A review of the new contract is ongoing to replace these necessary measures that make running conservation works contracts equitable, efficient and effective. The board’s achievement is all the more striking for not being based on international models, but is innovative in European terms. By tagging the companies which enter into contracts to carry out works, with all the benefits and disadvantages that that entails, it provides a quality marker at the point where key decisions are made which will affect the outcomes of a building project – does the firm which will tender on price have the managerial and craft skills to do the job competently? We still await an industry-wide skills card system, which must inevitably come, but the Register provides an important source of information on quality for now. The Heritage Council has a Traditional Building Skills Working Group, to respond to the challenges posed by achieving quality in building conservation in contemporary circumstances. It is currently running a ‘Train the Trainer’ project in conjunction with Building Limes Forum Ireland. The intended outcome of the project is to develop a curriculum for a training course in building lime technology, the tricky material that is one of the most important components of traditional buildings. In conclusion, the achievement of quality in conservation works is a combination of attention to (a) processes, and (b) standards. Neither is sufficient alone. Quality is holistic, and possibly, ultimately, aesthetic. In Ireland, this quality in conservation works is most often achieved through the personal ethical commitment of the chief specifier, site supervisor and building contractor. Colm Murray is Architecture Officer with the Heritage Council and has been on the Board of the Register of Heritage Contractors since 2006. C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 37
Untitled-1 1
06/11/2015 17:01
bCAR
Everthing you wanted to know…Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 The building control regulations are a complex set of rules governing how we build in Ireland. Here, CIF Director for Housing Hubert Fitzpatrick answers some of the most common questions about the regulations.
1. What are the Building Control Regulations?
The Building Control Regulations apply to new buildings, extensions, material alterations and changes of use of buildings. They promote observance of the Building Regulations by supplementing powers of inspection and enforcement given to Building Control Authorities. The Building Control Regulations regulate: 1. Commencement Notices and 7 Day Notices 2. Fire Safety Certificates, Revised Fire Safety Certificates and Regularisation Certificates 3. Disability Access Certificates and Revised Disability Access Certificates 4. Maintenance of Registers 5. Fees 6. Statutory registration of building control activity Failure to submit a Commencement Notice is an offence and will have serious consequences which cannot be regularised at a
later date. Owners may have difficulties in selling their property if they cannot prove that the statutory requirements relevant to the property have been met.
2. What is a Commencement Notice?
A Commencement Notice is a notification to a Building Control Authority that a person intends to carry out either works or a Material Change of Use to which the Building Regulations apply. The notice must be given to the authority not more than 28 days and not less than 14 days before the commencement of works or the change of use. Once validated by the building control authority, works must commence on site within the 28 day period.
3. Do all developments require a Commencement Notice? Commencement Notices are required for the following: 1. The erection of a building
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 39
‘‘
On the 1st March 2014, new regulations (S.I. 9 of 2014) relating to the commencement and certification of construction works came into effect
’’
40 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
2. A material alteration of a building 3. An extension to a building 4. A material change of use of a building 5. Works in connection with the material alteration (excluding minor works) of a shop, office or industrial building where a Fire Safety Certificate is not required A Commencement Notice is not required for: 1. Works or a change of use which requires neither planning permission, nor a Fire Safety Certificate
4. What happened on March 1st 2014? On the 1st March 2014, new regulations (S.I. 9 of 2014) relating to the commencement and certification of construction works came into effect. For certain building works, the new regulations require that certificates of compliance and other documents must be submitted with the Commencement Notice. The additional requirements also
include: 1. The nomination of a competent ‘Assigned Certifier’ to inspect and certify the works 2. The assignment of a competent builder to carry out the works 3. The submission of Certificates of Compliance on completion
5. Do the additional requirements apply to all Commencement Notices?
No. The additional requirements only apply to the following works: 1. Construction of a dwelling house 2. Extension of a dwelling house by more than 40 square meters 3. Works which require a Fire Safety Certificate
6. What additional documents must an Owner submit with the Commencement Notice?
Any Commencement Notice submitted after the 1st March 2014, which come within the scope of S.I. 9 of 2014 must fill out an online assessment of the proposed approach to compliance with the Building Regulations and be accompanied by the following: 1. Certificate of Compliance (Design) 2. Notice of Assignment of Person to Inspect and Certify Works (Assigned Certifier) 3. Undertaking by Assigned Certifier 4. Notice of Assignment of Builder 5. Undertaking by builder 6. General arrangement drawings for building control purposes – plans, sections and elevations 7. A schedule of design documents currently prepared or to be prepared at a later date 8. The preliminary inspection plan 9. Any other documents deemed appropriate by the Assigned Certifier
bCAR 7. What happens if work is not started within the statutory notice period of the Commencement Notice? If the works do not start within 28 days of the date of lodgement of the Commencement Notice, a new Commencement Notice must be submitted prior to the commencement of any works taking place.
8. What happens if a Commencement Notice is not submitted?
Failure to submit a Commencement Notice when required is an offence. If works commence or a change of use takes place in the absence of a Commencement Notice, there is no provision to retrospectively submit a Commencement Notice. For works subject to S.I. 9 of 2014, it will not be possible to submit a Certificate of Compliance on Completion, and the building will not be recorded on the public register. This will affect the owner’s ability to use, occupy or sell the building as it is an offence to use or occupy a new building where a Certificate of Compliance on Completion has not been registered by the Building Control Authority.
9. Who can act as an Assigned Certifier?
An Assigned Certifier must be: 1. An Architect named on a register maintained pursuant to Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007, or 2. A Surveyor named on a register maintained pursuant to Part 5 of the Building Control Act 2007, or 3. An Engineer named on a register maintained pursuant to Section 7 of the Institution of Civil Engineers of Ireland (Charter Amendment) Act 1969
10. How can an owner appoint a competent builder?
A competent person may generally be regarded as a person who possesses sufficient training, experience, and knowledge to enable them to undertake the project tasks they are required to perform having regard to the nature of the project and its scale and complexity. Competence can be verified, for instance, by reference to involvement on previous similar projects. One way of choosing a competent builder is to select a builder included on the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI). Further details may be found on www.ciri.ie
11. Who is responsible for compliance with the Building Control Regulations?
The owner of the building, the designer who designs the works, and the builder who carries out the works are responsible, under law, for compliance with Building Regulations and
Building Control Regulations.
12. Can a Commencement Notice be submitted online?
Yes, a new national Building Control Management System (BCMS) is now in place. Plans, specifications, particulars, and the preliminary inspection plan can be uploaded to the BCMS. In addition, the online assessment of the proposed approach to compliance with the Building Regulations is also done through the BCMS. The BCMS will allow building owners nominate an Assigned Certifier, and a Builder for the development works. The BCMS will also allow the Owner, Assigned Certifier, and the Builder to fill out the required Notices and Certificates online. Each party must be registered with the BCMS to fill in or sign their respective parts.
13. What is the Fee for a Commencement Notice?
The fee for a Commencement Notice is €30, or where the Commencement Notice relates to multiple buildings, €30 in respect of each building. Additional charges will be imposed by the Building Control Authority for commencement notices which are not submitted online via the Building Control Management System.
14. What is a 7 Day Notice?
A 7 day notice is similar to a Commencement Notice and may be used for works, which require a Fire Safety Certificate, when the works need to start before the Certificate is granted. It must be accompanied by a valid Fire Safety Certificate application and a Statutory Declaration. After the 1st March 2014, the additional requirements which apply to Commencement Notices will also apply to 7 Day Notices. The fee for a 7-Day Notice is €250 or €5.80 per square metre of applicable floor area (whichever is the greater).
15. What is a Certificate of Compliance on Completion?
For work coming within the scope of S.I. 9 of 2014, a Certificate of Compliance on Completion must be lodged with the Building Control Authority and placed on the public register before the building may be opened, occupied or used. The Certificate must be signed by the Assigned Certifier and the Builder. It certifies that the building or works have been carried out in accordance with the Building Regulations.
16. What happens if the Builder or Assigned Certifier changes during the construction works? The owner of the building must notify the Building Control Authority within 14 days of such changes and must submit new Notices of
Assignment and undertakings. Failure to do so is an offence.
17. What happens if ownership of the building, development or works changes during construction?
Under the new Regulations, the new owner of the building must notify the Building Control Authority within 14 days, in writing. Failure to do so is an offence.
18. What Ancillary Certificates are required by the Building Control Authority?
No additional Ancillary Certificates are strictly required for submission to the Building Control Authority on completion of the works. However, the Assigned Certifier and the Builder may require Ancillary Assigned Certifiers and Ancillary sub-contractors to sign Ancillary Certificates in respect of the specific works undertaken by them. These Ancillary certificates should follow the Practice Note agreed between the professional bodies (RIAI, ACEI, Engineers Ireland and SCSI) and the industry (CIF) in December 2014. Reference to these ancillary certificates can then be included in the Annex to the statutory Certificate of Compliance on Completion to be submitted to
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 41
bCAR
‘‘
Failure to submit a Commencement Notice when required is an offence.
’’
the Building Control Authority on completion of the project. The Building Control authority may seek copies of these Ancillary Certificates prior to registration of the Certificate of Compliance on Completion.
19. Certificates for Other Design Work:
• When design work is undertaken by a party appointed by the Contractor/ Builder, and that party does not subsequently undertake the related construction work, then that party should sign one of the Certificates prepared by the Professional Bodies. • When design work is undertaken by a sub-contractor who subsequently undertakes the related construction work, the CIF Ancillary Certificates CIF 01 or CIF 02 certificates shall be completed by the relevant subcontractor.
20. Materials and Workmanship:
Technical Guidance Document D relates to materials and workmanship. Materials used on site must comply with the Construction Products Regulations and be fit for purpose. In this respect, Assigned Certifiers may seek Declaration of Performances (DOPs) from builders/ sub-contractors for the relevant materials used on the project. These DOPs should have been received from the supplier of the material when being ordered/ delivered to the construction site. Builders are advised that they should seek Declarations of Performances for products and materials purchased to ensure that products and materials purchased are fit for purpose.
21. Opt Out Facility:
Under the Building Control (Amendment)
Regulations 2015, the owner of works involving the construction of a single dwelling, on a single unit development, or of a domestic extension, has the facility to opt out of the requirement to obtain statutory certificates of compliance signed by a registered construction professional. An owner availing of this facility must, when submitting Commencement Notice, sign and submit the new form of “Declaration of the Intention to Opt out of Statutory Certification”. Prior to deciding on whether or not to avail of the opt-out option, the Department of the Environment Community and Local Government recommends that a homeowner should consult their solicitor. Owners must fully understand their personal liability in relation to the project and their duty of care to others who may be affected by their actions at a later date. The homeowner, who avails of the opt-out option, is no longer required to provide the following compliance documentation: • The preliminary Inspection Plan; • A Certificate of Compliance (Design); • Notice of assignment of Person to Inspect and Certify Works; • A Certificate of Compliance (Undertaking By Assigned Certifier); • A Certificate of Compliance ( Undertaking By Builder); and • A Certificate of Compliance on Completion, and accompanying documents. Notwithstanding an owner’s decision to ‘Opt-Out’ of his obligations to appoint construction professionals, he is still legally obliged to comply with the building regulations and has duty of care to future users of the building. Availing of the ‘Opt-Out’ provisions could affect future saleability of buildings and insurance related issues. Members can contact the Federation for further advices in relation to operation of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014. Note: This guidance provides general advice. It is not a legal interpretation of Building Control Regulations and should not be considered as such. Further guidance can be sought by contacting your technical advisor or your local Building Control Authority. C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 43
CIF – Guidelines on best practice for tendering
T
he contracting departments within the CIF regularly deal with queries from members in respect of prequalification and tendering. In response to repeated queries on a number of items, a document entitled Guidelines on Best Practice for Tendering has been developed. This document is based on the provisions set out in the Code of Practice for Tendering & Contractual Matters 2006 in respect of private sector works, and the Capital Works Management Framework Guidance Notes and EU Procurement Directives in respect of public sector works. The guidelines address the issues most commonly encountered by CIF member companies and sets out the rights of contractors in these areas. All tenders (irrespective of value, complexity, public or private) should include at a minimum a Bill of Quantities. A tender without a BOQ, is a barrier for smaller SME’s to quote for subcontract packages as they do not have the resources available to prepare a measure for their works. A BOQ is also a very efficient means to keep tendering costs at a minimum. This is a requirement for all private sector works, and will be implemented in the amended Government forms of contract due to be published shortly following the review process.
Private sector works
The rules relating to private sector works are governed by the
44 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
Code of Practice for Tendering & Contractual Matters 2006, developed by the Liaison Committee. This document addresses matters relating to tender periods, information to be provided to contractors at tender stage, performance bonds and retention.
Public sector works
The rules relating to Public Sector Works are governed by the Guidance Notes to the Capital Works Management Framework, available at www.constructionprocurement.gov.ie and the EU Procurement Directives - Directive 2004/17/EC which relates to utilities, and Directive 2004/18/EC relating to public works. The EU Procurement Directives apply to contracts valued above the EU Threshold, currently set at €5,186,000. The thresholds are reviewed every two years, with the current level due to be revised in January 2016. The EU Procurement Directives have now been amended and the new directives are due to be transposed into Irish law by April 2016. Guidance notes in relation to public sector tendering will shortly be amended following the publication of the report on the Review of the Performance of the Public Works Contract by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Office of Government Procurement in December 2014. This report has issued a number of key recommendations which will have a significant impact on public sector projects, including:
tendering • Make the bill of quantities the primary reference document for the pricing of public works tenders for projects designed by the contracting authority • Introduce a separate tender and subcontract for specialist works contractors • Require all projects with a value in excess of €2m to be awarded on the basis of Most Economically Advantageous Tender with a significant weighting for quality • Overhaul the dispute resolution procedure for all public works contracts The initial changes are expected to be implemented shortly, with further engagement to take place on other items. Members will be updated as amendments are introduced.
Key issues raised by CIF members: • Declarations Following on from Circular 10/10, the volume of documentary evidence to be submitted by contractors at tender stage is much reduced. Instead, tenderers are asked to declare that they have the necessary capacity in the required areas and to confirm that they will be in a position to provide the necessary evidence when requested. • Excessive turnover levels The turnover levels that can be sought are set out in the Minimum Standards Works Contractor Criteria Guidance Note, which indicates that the turnover level sought on a building project should be 75%-150% of the annualised capital value of the project. For example, a six month building project valued at €1million would have an annualised capital value of €2million, and therefore the turnover level sought should be in the region of €1.5million to €3million. The turnover levels for civil engineering projects should be between 30%-60% of the annualised capital value of the project. • Restrictive nature of specific requirements The levels of experience sought by a contracting authority should be reasonable and appropriate to the project in question in relation to both past experience and management/staff. The Government set out in Circular 10/14 and in its predecessor Circular 10/10 that capacity levels set for candidates/tenderers should be relevant and proportionate to the particular circumstances of a contract. Specific guidance is set out in the Minimum Standards Works Contractor Criteria
where unrestricted and full direct access by electronic means is provided to all tender and supplementary documents. For public sector works valued at less than the EU Threshold, the tender period is 21 calendar days. In certain circumstances this time period may • Level of Retention be reduced provided the time allowed Retention percentages should be as remains sufficient to ensure genuine follows: competition. There is no provision for additional PUBLIC: Value of contract Retention time to be allowed for Under €200,000 10% tendering a design and build €200,000 - €3,000,000 Sliding scale 3%-10% competition. pro-rata Over €3,000,000 3% minimum For private sector works, Guidance Note, which states that “minimum standards should not be set at a level that discriminates against certain groups in a particular sector that would be otherwise eligible to do the work”.
PRIVATE: Value of contract Under €500,000 €500,000 - €1,000,000 €1,000,000 - €5,000,000 Over €5,000,000
Retention 7.5% 5% 3% 2%
• Performance Bonds The current levels of performance bonds for public sector works are set out in Circular 07/13: Construction Procurement Reform – Reduction of the Current Level of Construction Performance Bonds for use with the Public Works Contracts. Where the contract sum is less than €500,000, a bond should not normally be required. For contract sums up to up to €10m a bond of 12.5% should be required, and a 10% bond for contract sums over €10m. Private sector performance bonds remain at up to 25% depending on the value of the contract. • Insufficient tender periods For public sector works valued above the EU Threshold the standard time periods for receipt of tender are 52 days for open procedures and 40 days for a restricted procedure. These timeframes may be reduced where a Prior Information Notice (PIN) has been published, where notice is transmitted electronically, and
‘‘
the volume of documentary evidence to be submitted by contractors at tender stage is much reduced.
20 working days must be provided for tendering.
• Information to be provided to unsuccessful candidates/tenderers The European Communities (Public Authorities’ Contracts) (Review Procedures) Regulations 2010, Regulation 6 sets out the requirements for notification of unsuccessful candidates or tenderers for projects valued above the EU Threshold. These regulations can be accessed at: www. irishstatutebook.ie/2010/en/si/0130.html Essentially, the unsuccessful candidate or tenderer must be able to understand the reasons for which he has been unsuccessful. For below threshold projects, Contracting Authorities are encouraged to constructively debrief unsuccessful tenderers. This is dealt with at section 4.9 of Guidance Note 2.3 Procurement Process for Works Contractors published by the Department of Finance and accessible at www.constructionprocurement. gov.ie/guidance-notes/. Guidance notes relating to the suitability assessment of works contractors in both open and restricted procedures refer to Article 41 of Directive 2004/18/EC, which requires a Contracting Authority to inform candidates of why their submission was rejected within 15 days of a written request.
Services for members
’’
CIF Staff in the contracting departments have specialist expertise in these areas and can offer advice and assistance to members in situations where contracting authorities or private procurers have not complied with the requirements and guidance they should be operating under. Similar issues to those outlined above are dealt with on a regular basis by CIF staff. C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 45
pensions
6 Things to do differently in 2016…. If you are one of those rare people who is doing everything right with their money, this article is not for you. For the rest of us, here are six simple things to do differently in 2016 that will help your financial health flourish, writes Susan O’Mara. Budget
Most of us have some idea of our income vs our outgoings. We know our income, and our fixed expenditure such as the mortgage. However, achieving a more realistic picture requires a little more effort. You will need to look at outgoings that only happen on a quarterly or less frequent basis. You will need to be realistic and account for costs that will fall under a “Lifestyle” section, if you regularly attend a sports fixture or the theatre; it needs to go in the budget. All banks have online facilities that provide statements going back a year or more, and the frequency with which we use Visa means that a lot of the data is readily available to look back at recent habits. You may find you have a regular deficit, and if so, this should be addressed immediately. Knowing your spending habits may help you to take a more practical approach and if you don’t have surplus now, in 2016, you may achieve this with the help of your budget.
Bank Charges
If doing your budget you may be surprised at the amount you are paying in bank charges. With the most expensive Irish bank coming in at over €200 per annum. Establish what your charges are, and if there are conditions to be met in order to avoid them. If you’re saving €200 per annum, you may be able to increase your protection levels without increasing your expenditure. This leads nicely into point number 3…
Review your Protection requirements & costs
If you have no family and no debt, you may only require income protection – to replace an income if you were unable to work due to illness or injury. On the other hand, if you have a family and mortgage, you are likely to need a combination of Life Cover, Income Protection and Serious Illness cover. Balance is key and you should speak to a financial adviser to ensure you are not over covered in one area and under covered in another.
Retirement Planning
The sooner you start making contributions the better. The benefit of the tax free investment growth over the years has the
magical power of compound interest and it’s very effective. If you are already in a scheme or plan – do you know the value of your fund? Do you know what it will provide for you at your retirement age? If not, find out. Now that you’ve done your budget, you have an idea of your income requirements and what they might be in retirement, assuming you wish your lifestyle to remain the same. What is the difference between your ideal income in retirement and the projection on your benefit statement? Do you need to bridge the gap? Even a small regular additional voluntary contribution (AVC) can achieve this in the long term. If you are close to retirement, it may be less about making contributions and more about planning which option suits you best – Annuity or ARF – you should engage with this decision now and not leave it until the day you hit the golden age!
Savings
I recently read an article on piece that featured an interview with Warren Buffet – he had a piece of advice which was interesting; “Pay yourself first”. What he is essentially saying is: don’t save whatever is left over – set aside savings before you pay bills – otherwise, you might never save. Of course even if you haven’t lived Buffets way, you can teach your children now, as my own father would have said, Do what I say, not what I do!
Health Insurance
A very important insurance, which can also be very costly. As with ALL insurances, we hope we never have to use it, but it remains a must have. Rather than simply renew this cover every year, shop around. The Health Insurance Authority has a very helpful comparison tool on their website (www. hia.ie) which will eliminate much of the time and hassle comparing plans. These tips aren’t revolutionary, but they are practical and will make a difference to your bank balance in 2016. C For further information regarding saving for your retirement please contact Susan O’Mara at: susan@milestoneadvisory.ie Phone: 01-4068020 Milestone Advisory Limited t/a Milestone Advisory is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 47
Be part of the register – Join CIRI today
CIRI is an official online register, supported by Government, of competent builders, contractors, specialist sub-contractors and tradespersons who undertake to carry out construction works. Its objective is to be recognised as the primary online resource used by consumers in the public and private procurement of construction services.
To apply for registration and for further information, go to:
www.ciri.ie
donegal
Donegal CIF members speak of tough times An enterprise centre completed earlier this year by Joseph McMenamin & Sons. The project was valued at €2m and the building programme lasted 12 months.
The belief that a construction recovery is evident only in Dublin while rural areas are in desperate need of investment is an article of faith in the regions, none more so than Donegal. Brian Foley travelled to the North West to speak with CIF members there. “We’re one of only three counties without a motorway or rail link,” says Barry McMenamin describing the lack of infrastructure investment in the county. It comes as no surprise, therefore, to learn that when the A5 road upgrade from Monaghan to Derry was postponed due to the economic downturn a few years back, it was a hammer blow to the region. “It creates a difficulty in attracting investment into the county,” says Barry, whose father established Joseph McMenamin & Sons 70 years ago. He describes the current situation in the county as “interesting times”. “The country is experiencing massive housing shortages with rising rents as a result, yet here in Donegal we have plenty of houses at a reasonable
cost,” he says. The county needs support from the IDA and Enterprise Ireland, says Barry. “In fairness, they’re trying but the all the FDI focus appears to be on Dublin.” The long-term CIF member says that although his company is not as busy as he would like, he remains optimistic about the future. “Rural Ireland and particularly Donegal always lag urban areas when it comes to an upturn,” he says. “We would hope by the middles of 2016 there would be an uplift.” Echoing other CIF members in the county Barry says procurement procedures are weighted towards national and international companies. “Turnover requirements and ‘bundling’
Barry McMenamin says he is optimistic about the future
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 49
Example of small marina contract in Greencastle, which Joseph McMenamin & Sons completed for for Donegal County Council.
‘‘
We would hope by the middle of 2016 there would be an uplift
’’
Dorrian Construction completed the Lurgybrack National School in Letterkenny
makes it difficult for regional contractors,” he explains. “From a regional perspective we need manageable packages because we don’t have the scale to compete at that level.” Barry worries that if construction comes to be dominated by international firms, training new staff – a responsibility local companies traditionally undertook – will fall away. “The next 18 moths will be a time of huge change,” he says. “The CIF work on CIRI will have an effect. It will help police the construction industry. He describes CIRI as “absolutely necessary”. “The implementation of BCAR will also improve the construction process and image.” Like many he is opposed to the exemption for ‘one-off ’ houses. “We’re creating a divide in construction, BCAR houses and non-BCAR houses. “People don’t want the exemption,
CIF Donegal Branch Chairman Dermot Gildea they’ll be nervous about selling on.”
Projects
Talking to CIF members in the county, the sense is that for many contractors work comprises school projects (and the Summer works). For McMenamin & Sons the fishing port in Killybegs provided a €5m project (manufacturing facility for Seaquest). Barry admits turnover stands at €6.5m compared to €25m during the boom. He says next year will prove a dangerous time for contractors as bidding for work on tight margins will continue along with an increase in costs. “We’re bidding for work two years down the line based on today’s prices,” he says. Having said that, stability will eventually return to the market, says Barry. Just down the road from the McMenamin base in Stranorlar is MBC Building Contractors in Ballybofey, which is run by Dermot Gildea, the current Chairman of the CIF Dongeal
50 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
donegal The Optibelt Urethane Belting facility in Letterkenny, completed by Dorrian Construction
‘‘
Like many he is opposed to the exemption for ‘one-off’ houses
’’
Branch. “Water metering and summer works for schools,” is how Dermot, who works with his brother John, describes the current situation in the county. Echoing Barry McMenamin, Dermot says government work is “crucial” while local architects securing work is important as they will employ local contractors. It is only recently Dermot and John had to travel for work. “We’ve been doing this for over 30 years and it’s only now that we’ve started staying overnight,” he says. Tender prices are very competitive – there are usually 10 to 12 tenders for each project – while turnover requirements are a huge drawback for local contractors. Having said that, Dermot says he appreciates his role as Chairman of the Donegal Branch. “My father only missed two meetings in all the years he was in the business,” he says. He mentions outgoing Chairman Oliver Duffy as someone who served members well in the region. Dermot’s wish list for the county is that government and local authority keep
investing. “They need to stay away from ‘bundling’,” he adds.
Turning tide
For Dessie Dorrian from Dorrian Construction the recession saw his company’s turnover drop 90%. “We’ve trebled turnover in the past year,” he says, “but I think that because so many contractors have gone out of business. The volume hasn’t increased, it’s just there’s less contractors around.” Dorrian Construction are working on “mainly industrial” projects. Dessie mentions bundling as restricting competition. “If you only have five contractors in a bundle process that can’t be good for competition.” The upturn in car sales has seen a demand for refurbishment of garages: “They’re filling
Dessie Dorrian from Dorrian Construction
‘‘
“Tender prices are very competitive – there are usually 10 to 12 tenders for each project
’’
the gap now that schools have trailed off.” Infrastructure development is vital to the future success of Donegal, says Dessie. He mentions the N56 and A5 as roads that need upgrading, the benefits for outweighing the initial costs. “They’ve been talking about a link road (in Letterkenny) for 20 years,” he says. “We would say to FDIs thinking of coming to Ireland ‘look at Donegal’. The cost of living is lower and salaries will be lower also.” After so many negatives it’s worth mentioning the positives. Letterkenny Institute of Technology has a wellregarded Civil Engineering & Construction faculty, which is turning out the construction professionals of the future. “And don’t forget Donegal is a grand cheap place to live,” says Dessie. “Donegal is a lifestyle choice!” C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 51
Opportunity in complexity
The financing structures now required in the sector are necessarily complicated due to the range of finance types being utilised. We will assist you to optimise your business structure in this new regime. Oliver O’Connor Head of Construction T +353 (0)1 6805 679 M +353 (0)87 2376 152 E oliver.oconnor@ie.gt.com Offices in Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway, Kildare, Limerick and Longford. @GrantThorntonIE www.grantthornton.ie © 2015 Grant Thornton. All rights reserved. Authorised by Chartered Accountants Ireland (“CAI”) to carry on investment business.
grant thornton
Opportunities in complexity – Grant Thornton construction conference Early November saw the return of the annual trip to Croke Park for the Grant Thornton Construction Conference, this year’s theme was Opportunities in Complexity. Brian Foley reports.
I
n the run-up to the conference Grant Thornton has spoken about the “many positive signs during the past year for the construction industry, from growing employment numbers to higher levels of output”. However, significant barriers to further growth still exist, it said. Speakers on the day included John O’Hara, Acting City Planner in Dublin City Council, Jim Power, economist, Tom Parlon, CIF Director General and Barry O’Leary from Oaktree Capital. Oliver O’Connor, Head of Construction with Grant Thornton said: “The construction sector has entered a new dawn. We are focused on assisting the sector navigate the complexities of the new financing and structuring regimes. Ensuring that the appropriate structure is in place, for either the development or purchase of an asset, is our responsibility for you. “We have unrivalled experience and expertise in advising clients in the broad construction sector and we hope to bring this to bear as we advise you.” Jim Power addressed the large gathering about the underlying economic conditions. He related the oft-quoted fact that over 20,000 housing units will be required over the next decade. The population of Dublin will increase from 506,000 in 2006 to 606,000 by 2022, reinforcing the belief that key demand will be focused in the capital and commuter belt. “It says a lot about where the housing were built during the boom in 2006 that we now have a housing shortage,” he added. Tom Costello, a project consultant with the new National Children’s Hospital spoke about the project, saying it was one of “the great projects” that most contractors would like to work on. “We think it will be an exciting and successful project,” he said. John O’Hara from Dublin City Council said the city needed 4,200 houses per year for the next six years. At present about 500 to 900 units are being built. “Compare that to 2006 when 7,000 units were completed,” he said. He added that was land available for 9,000 units right now in the Dublin region. “There is no restriction on land to meet housing needs,” he said. In a question and answer session, CIF Director General Tom Parlon spoke about the increase in construction employment numbers and the expectation that output in the industry will reach €15bn in 2016, compared to €11bn turnover this year. As regards housing, the country is in a “perfect storm” he said. “The Government need to face up to the reality of the situation,” he added. “Over 36% of the house price goes back to the State in VAT and levies. That needs to be tackled.” C
Oliver O’Connor, Head of Construction with Grant Thornton
‘‘
At present about 500 to 900 units are being built (in Dublin). “Compare that to 2006 when 7,000 units were completed
’’
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 53
project of the month Project: Chairman’s Arch, Cathedral Square, Waterford Contractor: Clancy Construction Architect: C.J. Falconer & Associates Client: Waterford City & County Council This housing development in Waterford recently won the 2015 Irish Council of Social Housing Award for Regeneration. Declan Fitzpatrick, Contracts Director with Clancy Construction, spoke about the challenges faced during the project: “This development is located on a historic site in the heart of Waterford city in an area known as the ‘Viking triangle’. We encountered numerous challenges from the start of the project namely the location of the site within the city centre and adjacent to both public buildings and a busy commercial area with some residential also in the mix coupled with the usual congested traffic that you would expect in any city centre. Careful and detailed planning was required from the start for deliveries with weekly schedules prepared well in advance of each element of work. The site is small in scale therefore provided very limited storage for materials, ‘just in time’ delivery was used to alleviate this problem. The nature of the site being in a ‘zone of archaeological potential’ in Waterford city brought its own challenges and to this end we worked very closely with the client, design team, conservation consultants including the archaeologist’s whom attended site on a daily basis for a period during the project to ensure that the works were carried out within the strict guidelines for works of this nature. In addition the condition of the existing structures which had seriously deteriorated over the years was a serious concern during the early part of the project and strict health and safety measures were put in place during the various phases to ensure all works were carried out in a safe environment for the operatives whilst carefully removing parts of the existing structures and rebuilding to the required details. Overall this was a very challenging project but our experience site management team delivered a high quality finished project, which was completed within the timescale and most important of all with zero accidents, this project is a testament to our dedicated management staff and site workers including subcontractors.” C
54 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
BEFORE:
After:
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 55
finance
Getting to grips with Leasing and Hire Purchase Agreements
T
Damien O’ Sullivan answers queries about financing equipment. What are the options and which is likely to be the best for me?
• As ownership of the asset has not been acquired the VAT on the asset cannot be reclaimed. Instead the VAT on the rental charge by the finance company is reclaimable. • No capital allowances are available to the lessee but the rental payment is fully deductible in arriving at the taxable profits of a business. • At the end of the primary lease period, if the option to purchase is exercised an invoice for the purchase will be issued by the leasing company. This is generally accompanied by a credit note in respect of lease rentals paid, leaving a small payment to be paid by the lessee. In the case of a business asset the tax consequences of this are however very different from the termination of a hire purchase agreement. Firstly, as legal ownership of the asset is only acquired at the end of the primary lease period, capital allowances, based on the settlement value, can only be claimed from that date. As with all plant and machinery this must be claimed over eight years. Secondly, a tax deduction will have already been allowed on the periodic lease payments so the issue of a credit note by the leasing company represents a refund of rentals paid. This refund will be subject to income tax. In the case of a VAT registered person VAT will also be accountable on these events. It may be possible to avoid this clawback by allowing the lease to enter a secondary period but it should be borne in mind that with a secondary lease period you do not acquire ownership of Hire purchase agreement the asset. A hire purchase agreement is a contract to acquire an item by To summarise, in each instance the appropriate manner in making a series of instalment payments. It should be noted which an asset is to be financed will differ. The correct option however that under a hire purchase agreement ownership of the asset does not pass to the customer until the last instalment is paid. for the particular circumstance can only be decided having Up until that date the hirer is entitled to repossess the goods in the considered the availability of own funds, the cost of borrowed funds, the nature of the purchase (business or personal), the VAT event of the customer failing to make the repayments. status of the purchaser and the tax implication. Despite the fact that legal ownership does not transfer until the final payment is made you are however deemed to have acquired Damien O’Sullivan, Director with Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon, is a all of the risks and rewards of ownership for tax purposes. member of the Institute of Chartered Certified Accountants. C Accordingly your tax position will be similar to a person who has purchased the goods outright. ie. You will be entitled to reclaim all the VAT at the start of the agreement. his is a question we often receive from clients in the office and, in fact, there is no one answer that suits all circumstances. In general the purchase can be financed by: • Own cash resources • Hire Purchase Agreement • Lease If you are registered for VAT you may be entitled to reclaim the VAT paid on the purchase. The claim for VAT should be made in the VAT period in which the goods were acquired. Capital allowances can be claimed for income tax purposes provided the asset is used for the purpose of a trade. All plant and equipment is required to be written off at the rate of 12.5% per annum over eight years. For tax purposes the qualifying condition is that the item is in use at the end of the accounting period. If, during the life of the asset, it is deposed of a balancing calculation is performed to ensure that the tax relief claimed equates to the actual loss in value of the item. For example, an asset purchased for €16,000 and sold after 4 years for €6,500 will give rise to a claim for addition relief of €1,500. Relief will be allowed in the year of disposal for the amount of the balancing allowance. If the proceeds were €10,000 and not €6,500, you would have a balancing charge of €2,000 which would be taxable.
Leasing
A lease agreement is a contract to rent an item of plant of equipment for an agreed term. This differs from the hire purchase agreement where the option to purchase out-right is exercised at the start of the agreement. For tax purposes there are also very distinct differences.
56 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
‘‘
A hire purchase agreement is a contract to acquire an item by making a series of instalment payments.
’’
CIS
T
Construction: the numbers game
owards the end of Artists drawing of November, CIS have development at the site identified over 600 of the former passport projects worth almost office, Molesworth Street €2bn to commence between now and the end of Q4 2015 (excluding self-build and minor agricultural projects) Starting with the industrial sector, the €26m phase 2 extension of Alexion Pharma’s manufacturing facility in Blanchardstown has recently commenced. Work is also underway on an €8.5m food facility extension in Naas, Co. Kildare for O’Brien Fine Foods Limited. Looking to the civil sector, tenders for the demolition and enabling works will be sought from contractors in December 2015 for the in south Dublin, work has commenced on proposed new €22m Limerick Prison a €35m residential development consisting scheme. In Galway, a main contractor has of 72 units. Work on this development is been appointed for the €5.1m Kinvara expected to be carried out on a phased Waste Water Treatment Plant with work basis. Work started in early November expected to commence in early 2016. on phase 1 of the residential element Also in Galway, construction work has of the €200m harbour development in now commenced on the new €25m Garda Greystones. The first phase should be Headquarter Building. finished by the end of 2015 with the second In the education sector, works have phase to commence in early 2016. commenced on a €7m school extension The hospitality sector saw plans lodged in Loughrea, Co. Galway and a €3m for a new hotel at Sackville place in Dublin primary school in Rathangan, Co. in early November. An Bord Pleanála has Kildare. Also in Kildare, tenders have also overturned a refusal of permission by recently been returned from contractors Dublin City Council for a €12m Hotel near for the construction of a €29m Education Christchurch. Campus at Maynooth Universitythansk In the commercial sector, enabling hun . works have commenced to facilitate one Starting down in Munster in the of the largest schemes planned in the medical sector, work has started on a €3m country; the €110m Capital Dock scheme Radiology Unit extension in Clonmel, on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay. In Dublin Co. Tipperary and a €2.5m extension city centre, demolition works have also has also commenced at Bantry General commenced to allow for the construction Hospital in Co. Cork. Back up in Dublin, of the €35m office development at 13-17 tenders have recently been issued to a Dawson Street, the €30m redevelopment of pre-selected list of main contractors for the former passport office on Molesworth the new €6m National Ambulance Base Street and the ambitious €150m Bolands in Drimnagh. Quay development. Over to the residential sector, a 128 Following a successful demolition unit apartment development has started process, construction work is now on a site north of Poppintree industrial underway on the €19m redevelopment of estate near Ballymun. Over in Killinardin
Kestrel House in Dublin 2. Down in Cork, it is envisaged that works will commence before year end on the €53m Event and Convention Centre in the Brewery Quarter area of the city. Plans have recently been lodged for a €37m office development in the South County Business Park in Leopardstown. Plans are expected to be lodged for the primary element of ‘Project Cherry’ before the end of 2015. This will see planning applications relating to access roads and green elements which will help facilitate the €2.5bn scheme in South Dublin. Focusing on the sports sector, a main contractor has been officially appointed for the €67m redevelopment of Pairc Ui Chaoimh in Cork and the tender process has commenced for the €8m Badminton and Velodrome scheme at the National Sports Campus in Abbotstown. To read more details on these and thousands of other fully researched construction projects across All Ireland, visit our website and take a Free 7 Day Trial to experience how CIS can enhance your business pipeline. *Note* This CIS information was accurate on 27th November 2015. Visit www. cisireland.com for the latest project updates on these schemes C
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 57
CIF training and education programmes for January to February 2016
CIF Training & Development
Course Title/Venue Course Code
Start Date
End Date
Course times
CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 19th Jan 2016 16th Feb 2016 09.30am - 16.30pm CIF Construction House 2784 Tuesday Tuesday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF IOSH Project Supervisor Design Process PSDP 21st Jan 2016 22nd Jan 2016 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, 2700 Thursday Friday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 22nd Jan 2016 22nd Jan2016 08.30am-12.30pm CIF Construction House 2701 Friday Friday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Project Supervisor Construction Stage PSCS 26th Jan 2016 9th Feb 2016 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, 2702 Tuesday Tuesday Canal Road, Dublin 6 Construction Industry Analysis CIA 26th Jan 2016 2nd Feb2016 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Construction House, 2703 Tuesday Tuesday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Project Supervisor Construction Stage PSCS 27th Jan 2016 10th Feb 2016 08.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House 2705 Thursday Thursday Little Island Cork CIF IOSH Managing Safety in Construction MSIC 28th Jan 2016 25th. Feb 2016 09.30am – 16.30pm CIF Construction House 2706 Thursday Thursday Little Island Cork CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 28th Jan 2016 28th Jan 2016 08.30am-12.30pm Radisson Blu Hotel 2707 Thursday Thursday Galway CIF QQI Building Control Course - Full Programme BR 2708 28th Jan 2016 24th March 8.30 am to 17.00pm CIFConstruction House Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Building Control Course - Legislation 1 CSE 1 BCC 28th Jan 2016 28th Jan 2016 08.30am-13.00pm CIF Construction House, 2708 Thursday Thursday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Building Control Course - Legislation 2 CSE 1 BCC 28th Jan 2016 28th Jan 2016 14.00pm-17.00pm CIF Construction House, 2708 Thursday Thursday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Building Control Course -Legislation 3/ Code of Practice/Contractors CSE 1 BCC 29th Jan 2016 29th Jan 2016 08.30am-13.00pm CIF Construction House, 2708 Friday Friday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF QQI Building Control Course -Part D Materials and Workmanship CSE 1 BCC 29th Jan 2016 29th Jan 2016 14.00pm-17.00pm CIF Construction House, 2708 Friday Friday Canal Road, Dublin 6 Conservation Theory for Heritage Contracting, CTHC 28th Jan 2016 28th Jan 2016 09.30am – 17.00pm CIF Construction House, 2555 Thursday Thursday Canal Road, Dublin 6 CIF Core Safety Management Programme Renewal/CPD CSMP 29th Jan 2016 29th Jan 2016 08.30am-13.00pm CIF Construction House 2709 Friday Friday
58 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
INDUSTRY NEWS Construction Opportunities Special Report 2016
C
onstruction Information Services (CIS) is set to launch “Construction Opportunities Special Report 2016”, which includes comprehensive descriptions and industry contact details for the largest, active, and most lucrative projects across both, Northern Ireland and the Republic. The Irish economy is the fastest growing in Europe and the construction industry will account for an excess of €16bn in key and major projects in 2016. As Ireland emerges from the recovery, there is reason to be optimistic with positive forecasts of continued growth in all sectors within the industry. 2016 will see the continuation of high project volume in the Irish commercial and industrial
sectors, and the residential sector is on the cusp of revival with soaring housing demands in the market pushing for more developments to go on site. Managing Director of CIS, Tom Moloney shares his optimistic views on the excess of €16bn in projects for 2016 his team have predicted. “With positive growth continuing strongly in the industry and the volume and value of opportunities available steadily increasing, there has never been a better time to expand your business pipeline with prospective Irish contracts, by first identifying them in our Special Report,” he says. Order your essential guide to 2016 opportunities in the Irish construction sector and identify suitable projects for your
business pipeline. Buy your copy today at the special purchase price of €275. Call Alan Chapman on 01 2999 201 or email achapman@cisireland.com for further information.
Tony Donnelly, Marks & Spencer, Gavin Daly, CSD, Brendan Kane, McLaughlin & Harvey and Brian Raymond, O’Connor Sutton, Dublin at the J Vaughan Electrical Contractors golf outing
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 59
Jones Engineering staff raise €60,000 for Make-a-Wish Foundation Twenty employees of Jones Engineering have completed a gruelling three-day cycling challenge from one end of the country to the other, raising over €60,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation to bring fun, joy and respite care to children and families facing life challenging medical conditions. Undertaking the challenging Mizen Head to Malin Head cycle, the group of amateur cyclists completed the 600km journey averaging a distance of 200km each day. Each participant was tasked with raising sponsorship through personal and business contacts, and a number of Jones Engineering suppliers contributed generously to the effort. The cyclists raised an initial sum of €30,000 which was then matched by the Jones Engineering Group,
to make the substantial contribution of €60,000 to the cyclists’ nominated charity, the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Speaking about the impact of such a donation Susan O’Dwyer at Make a Wish explained, “We have one simple aim – to grant wishes to children living with lifethreatening medical conditions to enrich their lives with hope, strength and joy. We believe a wish can have a lasting impact on a child’s life, creating moments of joy and memories that last a life-time. “Since our inception in 1992 we have granted over 1,700 wishes in Ireland and this substantial donation will allow us to spread even more magic and continue to provide respite for children and their families, from their normal routines of hospitals, doctors and treatment.”
Pictured are Mary Quille, Make A Wish and Sean Downey, Jones Engineering
Kingspan recognised as leader for corporate action on climate change Kingspan has been identified as a global leader for its actions and strategies in response to climate change and has been awarded a position on the Climate “A” List by CDP, the international not-for-profit that measures environmental impact of thousands of companies around the world. Over 100 “A-listers” appear on the 2015 list, which has been produced at the request of 822 investors who represent more than a third of the world’s invested capital, and over $95 trillion of assets under management. Nearly 2,000 companies submitted information to be independently assessed against CDP’s scoring methodology, and the list features some of the world’s best known companies including Apple, Microsoft and Google, the three largest by
60 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
market capitalization. Kingspan is among 5% of the corporations participating in CDP’s climate change program to be awarded a position on the Climate A List, in recognition of its actions to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change in the past reporting year. Gene Murtagh, CEO of Kingspan said: “The climate change agenda is at the heart of the Kingspan Group’s vision and activities, and I am proud that we are the only Irish listed company to have made the CDP A List. We recognise the significance of climate change to global society and the central importance of addressing the environmental impact of the built environment – both existing and new build - as part of efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Kingspan supports a strong global agreement on climate change as it will help to meet international development aims, provide a clear signal to business to guide investment toward low carbon outcomes and bring huge benefits to the natural environment.” In 2011 Kingspan committed to operating with net zero energy impact by 2020. As of 2014, 28% of the Group’s energy usage was from renewable sources and it is currently on track to exceed an interim target of 50% in 2016. The Climate A List 2015, along with the climate scores of all companies publicly taking part in CDP’s climate change program this year, is available on CDP’s website www.cdp.net
industry news
L&M Keating director wins Chartered Engineer of the Year Award
R
ichard Browne, Director of L&M Keating has been awarded the prestigious the title of Engineers Ireland, Chartered Engineer of the Year for 2015. The accolade is Engineers Ireland’s most prestigious individual award. Richard was shortlisted from over 500 Chartered Engineers across all engineering disciplines in multiple industries and organisations throughout the country. Richard was unanimously declared the winner by a panel of 4 judges in an intense final round of interviews and presentations held last month in Engineers Ireland headquarters at Clyde Road, Ballsbridge. The announcement was made at the Engineers Ireland Excellence Awards ceremony in the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin. Richard has managed some of the L&M Keating’s most technically challenging marine civil engineering projects, particularly in the design and build sector. His experience covers a wide variety of projects including coastal, bridges, piling, dredging and conservation. Such projects include Rossaveel Floating Ferry Terminals and Knightstown Floating Concrete Harbour. In the course of this award Richard presented one of the company’s most challenging marine projects to date, Cape Clear Island Storm Gates. For this project, L&M Keating offered an innovative contractor designed solution to a unique challenge. Richard and his team elected to precast the largest element, the concrete lock chamber off-site on the mainland. The 15x15x9m high, 1000t structure was cast in and successfully floated from Verolme Drydock, Cobh over 130km to Cape Clear Island. It was then sunk into position on foundations up to 7m under water. His team then installed a set of sophisticated computer controlled mitre storm gates which includes two 30t gate leaves each operated by 140t hydraulic rams. This novel solution ensured that the vital island harbour could remain open throughout the construction programme. The solution also minimised underwater construction works and thus improving build safety. In his address to the 400 delegates at the ceremony Richard outlined the challenge of ensuring this 1000t chamber ‘arrived on the right day, at the right stage of the right tide, with the right weather conditions to slot the chamber into exactly the right spot a two hour tidal window. ‘I’m thrilled with the win, it’s fantastic recognition of the hard work our team do here at L&M Keating. We have great people delivering really innovative, challenging building and marine projects throughout the
L&M Keating Director Richard Browne with his award country and we don’t shout enough about it!’ Richard said. The project has proved to be a great success and today provides protection to the critical harbour infrastructure and safety to the islanders fishing boats and passenger ferry. L&M Keating have also been appointed to phase 2 of the project which will be completed by the end of the year.
United Hardware appoint Patrick Cassidy as CEO United Hardware Ltd has announced the appointment of Patrick Cassidy as its new Chief Executive Officer. As CEO of one of Ireland’s largest hardware groups, whose members primarily trade under the Homevalue and Arro retail brands, Patrick will be responsible for developing a new strategy to grow the Group and enhance its business functions into the future. Having pioneered Ireland’s first DIY superstore through the Woodies retail group, Patrick went on to hold a number of senior
positions including Country Manager of Homebase Ireland, Chief Executive Officer of ESB Retail Ltd, and most recently Director of Operations, Procurement, Property & Facilities Management of Certus. “I am honoured and very excited to have taken up the position of Chief Executive Officer at United Hardware and I look forward to working with the existing team, and our members, as we focus on growing our network of members nationwide and strengthening the overall business,” said Patrick.
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 61
Saint Gobain funded housing project features in new movie
T
he Peter McVerry Trust has premiered the documentary entitled ‘Moving on’ which tells the story behind the nature of Irish homelessness. The film tells the stories of Emma (19) and Patrick (22). It charts their individual moves from a Peter McVerry Trust hostel to a redeveloped apartment building in Dublin 8. The film tackles the traditional stereotypes of homelessness in Ireland and examines the power and security of having a place to call home. The building featured in the documentary was an empty Dublin City Council housing complex. During the film it is transformed from a derelict building into six modern apartments. The documentary tells the story of how the power and promise of its new homes, transforms the lives of six Peter McVerry Trust service users. The project costed over €100,000 and was funded by SaintGobain – the global construction materials manufacturer. Speaking today Pat Doyle, CEO of Peter McVerry Trust said: “This documentary shows the strong and determined young people that lay behind the stark homeless statistics we are often presented with. The stories of Emma and Patrick clearly illustrate the life chaning impact a key to their own home will have on people in homelessness.”
Brian Dolan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain said: “This project shows the true power of a home to change people’s lives. This investment of €100,000 will provide six apartments for a generation and touch the lives of hundreds of people. The film was made by Tim Gannon and Graham Seely of Gannsee Films, a Dublin-based production company.
About Saint-Gobain Saint-Gobain, the world leader in the habitat and construction markets. It designs, manufactures and distributes building and high-performance materials, providing innovative solutions to the challenges of growth, energy efficiency and environmental protection. With 2014 sales of €45 billion, Saint-Gobain operates in 64 countries and has nearly 190,000 employees. In Ireland, Saint-Gobain employees over 600 people in some of the best known and respected brands in the construction sector, including Gyproc with nearly 80 years manufacturing in Ireland, Isover, Weber, Ecophon, JP Corry, Bassetts, Performance Plastics and PDM. Together they offer a range of high performance energysaving products and solutions to help create a more sustainable built environment.
Value of construction projects up over €1.7 billion
T
he value of construction projects commenced saw a significant increase in the first three quarters of 2015, rising by €1.7 billion to €4.25 billion when compared to the same period in 2014 according to the latest edition of the Building Information Index. This represents an increase of +67% in the value of actual construction activity for the first nine months of 2015 when compared to the first half of 2014. The Building Information Index is produced by a team of researchers at Building Information Ireland who examine the various phases on every construction project using up to date planning and detailed project information. Project commencements, which are projects that have actually commenced and are on site, are a real-time barometer of what construction activity is happening throughout Ireland. Project applications can measure the sentiment in the sector and are indicative about future construction projects in the medium to long term. The Building Information Index shows that when these figures for the value of project commencements are broken down for each region, the recovery in the construction sector is being felt across the whole of Ireland. Munster has recorded the largest increase with gains of +126%, while Dublin +74%, Leinster +39% and Connacht/Ulster +32% also performed very strongly,” said Danny O’Shea Managing Director of Building Information Ireland. “When we analyse project commencements in the first nine months of 2015 in each the seven sectors that the Building Information Index compiles data for, commercial and retail continued to be the strongest performing sector at €830 million which represented an increase of +99% when compared to the same period in 2014,” says Danny O’Shea Managing Director of Building Information Ireland. “Also experiencing a +99% rise was the industrial sector, with a rise to €482 million. In a sign of growing confidence in the residential
62 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
sector, commencements almost doubled with a rise of +98% to a value of €2.09 billion.” “Projects funded exclusively by the exchequer in areas such as education, show a continued drop in project commencements with a fall of -7% to €211 million. This is also mirrored in the social sector with a drop of -12% to €196 million. Private sector investment in agriculture has seen a +33% rise to €84 million and projects in the medical sector also rose by +12% to €354 million,” he continued. “The data in the Building Information Index clearly shows that the private sector is driving growth in the construction industry. Approximately €11.27 billion worth of construction projects, across every sector, applied for planning permission in the first nine months of the year. “The breakdown of this however, into funding source, clearly shows that only 11% or €1.23 billion of the value of these projects relate to public funding. A total of €10.04 billion or 89% of the projects are privately funded, which is a figure that many in the industry will find surprising. It is important to note that this 89% figure does not include small residential extensions, one-off homes and other minor works and is therefore a conservatively low figure.” Residential construction remains a weather vain for the construction sector and the statistics all point in the one direction. Residential projects that have commenced construction in the first nine months of 2015 are up +98% from the previous year. When complete, these entire projects would yield a total of 11,795 individual housing units, with a construction value of approximately €2.09 billion. The better news however is to be found in the volume of residential projects that have submitted a planning application. This figure continues to rise, indicating a strong pipe-line of potential residential projects and is up +29% on last year. A total of 27,750 residential units would be built if all of these projects proceed through the planning process, representing a construction value of approximately €5.58 billion.
for your diary
Tuesday 12th January
Executive Body meeting
Executive Body meeting
Tuesday 24th May
Tuesday 11th October
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Tuesday 23rd February
Tuesday 5th July
Tuesday 22nd November
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Tuesday 12th April
Tuesday 30th August
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Executive Body meeting
Executive Body meeting
Executive Body meeting
Executive Body meeting
Executive Body meeting (followed by CIF AGM) Construction House, Dublin, 11am Contact: Gillian Heffernan 01 406 6016
Executive Body meeting
December 2015 CONSTRUCTION 63
Last Fix
The Great Housing Campaign
Safety first? According to new research undertaken by a leading trade insurance specialist, more than 90% of construction workers polled admitted that they’d previously arrived at a job, despite knowing for sure that they were too ill or injured to carry out the task to a high enough standard. When all participants were initially asked to disclose whether or not they were entitled to payment from an employer if they sustained an injury or illness, almost half (47%) answered that they would not because they were freelance, contracted and/or self-employed. A further 21% admitted that they were unsure of the sick pay rules in place with their current employer. Next, individuals taking part were asked if they’d ever been guilty of arriving at work despite suffering with an illness or injury which they knew would make it impossible for them to work to a high enough standard. The vast majority of respondents (91%) admitted they had done this at least once before. These participants were then given a list of answers and asked to pick all those which applied to them to explain their determination to work despite not being in fit health, with the most common answers given as follows: 1. I needed to make sure I earned enough to pay my bills- (72%) 2. I didn’t appreciate how ill I was until I arrived at work- (61%) 3. I didn’t want to risk losing my job by getting sick- (53%) 4. I didn’t want younger colleagues to think I was getting too old for the job- (21%) 5. I thought being at work would make me feel more healthy- (14%)
In case you have to squint to read the accompanying Fianna Fail leaflet Across from 1943, we’ll save you the trouble and reproduce some of the water…. its content here… UK construction market Apparently, from 1922 to set to overtake Germany 1932, £777,000 was spent on and be 6th largest in world new and refurbished schools. by 2030 @WSP_PB_UK 173 new schools were built. #globalconstruction2030 Moving on to housing, the - Tom Smith @ leaflet claims: “Although in the TomSmithWSP last three years the shortage of building materials has held up many great housing schemes, nothing like the Fianna Fail housing campaign has ever been known in Ireland.” It says that in the ten years to 1932 only 29,193 houses New research by trade insurance specialist’s construcaquote.com has were built but in the succeeding ten years over 132,220 revealed that the average construction worker will eat upwards of 1,500 homes were constructed. calories more than the recommended daily intake. Despite this revelation, less than one fifth of workers polled considered themselves to be at all overweight. When asked to select the most common meals they ate during a normal A leading provider of wood burning stoves working day from an extensive list of different foods, the most popular answers and biomass heating solutions has revealed were: the aspects of a home that people look for 1. Breakfast baguettes (bacon, sausage, egg etc) – (64%) and find most appealing when property 2. Meat pie/pasties – (51%) hunting. Findings revealed that exposed 3. Burger and chips- (48%) brick, a kitchen island and a wood burner/ 4. English fry-up- (35%) 5. Fried chicken – (33%) aga were the house features most likely to By comparison, only 17% said that ‘sandwiches’ were among the most persuade respondents to buy a property. common meals they eat while at work, with only 4% regularly eating salads.
The average construction worker eats more than 4,000 calories a day
64 CONSTRUCTION December 2015
Going beyond
At the heart of great performance. We believe in the power of one. Eight companies, 4500 employees & 100 international locations have come together as one team to deliver an unrivalled depth of experience, expertise and service excellence. We have unified under one new name – Actavo, a name that finds its very essence in the meaning of performance. Actavo.com