Local Authority News - Vol. 37 . No. 6

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• New TII Open Data Resources for Archaeology and Environmental Sciences • Minister Murphy Officially Opens New Social Housing Schemes in Donegal • Irish Water Update

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CONTENTS Vol 37. No 6.

FEATURES

Published by:

BLUESKY LiDAR WHATS THE POINT

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NEW TII OPEN DATA RESOURCES FOR ARCHAEOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

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ORDNANCE SURVEY IRELAND

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MINISTER ROSS WELCOMES €338M FUNDING FOR NATIONAL ROADS GILTRON LTD RIVERVIEW LODGE, DUBLIN ROAD, NAVAN, CO. MEATH.

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MINISTER MURPHY OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW SOCIAL HOUSING SCHEMES IN DONEGAL 13 FIREBIRD LAUNCH NEW ENVIROGREEN LOW NOX BOILER RANGE

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GRANT EXPANDS AERONA3 AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP OFFERING

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Tel: 00353 46 9072841 Email: info@localauthoritynews.ie Website: www.localauthoritynews.ie

ISSN NO. 1393-0394

LAN is available FREE OF CHARGE to all Local and Central Government Bodies throughout Ireland. Published bi-monthly it is disseminated to Local Authority Managers, Assistant Managers, County Secretaries, Finance Officers, Principal Officers, Department Heads, County Engineers, City Engineers, Chief Quantity Surveyors, Senior Architects, Plant Superintendents, Senior Executive Engineers, Town Clerks, Purchasing Officers, Administrative Officers, Inspectors, Park Superintendents, County Librarians, etc. in all Government Departments, County Councils, Corporations, Office of Public Works, Urban District Councils, State-Sponsored and Development Bodies and Agencies.

MAJOR CONSTRUCTION REPORT LAUNCHED IN IRELAND SHOWS INDUSTRY SET TO GROW BY 20% IN 2019, WHILE FEARS GROW OVER THE LOOMING TALENT SHORTAGE CRISIS (AECOM) 20 NATIONAL ROADS OFFICE SERVING ROAD USERS IN DONEGAL AND THE NORTH-WEST

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FERMOY IS CLEANEST TOWN IN 2018 LEAGUE AS LITTERED CITY AREAS FAIL TO IMPROVE 24

REGULARS IRISH WATER UPDATES

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DEPARTMENT BREIFS

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PRODUCT INFO

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CLASSIFIEDS

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ParkMagic paving the way for Electric Vehicle parking Sales of Electric Vehicles in Ireland have dramatically increased in the last few years.

This increase has made a once abundant resource into a rare commodity, the electric vehicle charging bay.

ParkMagic, together with Limerick City and County Council are rolling out an initiative to put charging bay availability information into the hands of drivers.

Users of the Limerick e-Parking service, the popular cashless alternative to parking discs, can access space information via their Limerick e-Parking app. A map displays all charging bays in the area and whether they are empty or occupied.

The local authority receives live occupancy information which can be used to more efficiently enforce parking rules in these areas and to gain insights on the demand for the spaces in their jurisdiction.

ParkMagic are based in Limerick and their cashless parking systems are the most widely deployed in Ireland.

ParkMagic Mobile Solutions Ltd, Riverfront, Howleys Quay, Limerick V94 WTK7, (t) +353-61-311422 (w) www.parkmagic.net

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Minister Ross welcomes €338m funding for National Roads he Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD, welcomed confirmation from Transport Infrastructure Ireland that, as a result of funding he secured in Budget 2019, it has approved national road schemes to a value of €338m. This will enable some of the key projects listed in the Capital Plan to now advance to construction phase such as Ballyvourney to Macroom and Westport to Turlough. The €338m includes for €319m for improvement works, and nearly €18m in maintenance. This is the first tranche of funding allocated by TII.

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Welcoming the funding Minister Ross said: “I very much welcome the grants announced to Local Authorities for our national roads. This funding goes towards developing and maintaining vital national road infrastructure for safe and effective travel throughout the country. Whether in cities or on rural roads, good maintenance and road infrastructure is key to optimising safety, as well as ensuring that motorists get from A to B as comfortably and efficiently as possible. This funding will greatly assist Local Authorities in delivering on this. In addition it will strength connectivity between the regions which is crucial in the context of Brexit and assist in the delivery of our commitments in the National Development Plan.”

Michael Nolan CEO Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) stated: “This funding is an important investment toward the development and maintenance of national road infrastructure which will allow for road users to travel safely and efficiently throughout the country.”

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2019 National Roads Allocations County by County €319m improvement works and €18m Maintenance Total Allocations for Carlow County Council

€3,302,160

Total Allocations for Cavan County Council

€7,121,344

Total Allocations for Clare County Council

€4,034,646

Total Allocations for Cork City Council

€4,271,687

Total Allocations for Cork County Council

€34,503,812

Total Allocations for Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

€2,506,170

Total Allocations for Donegal County Council

€34,655,903

Total Allocations for Fingal County Council

€742,000

Total Allocations for Galway City Council

€6,436,283

Total Allocations for Galway County Council

€21,491,934

Total Allocations for Kerry County Council

€18,980,210

Total Allocations for Kildare County Council

€11,880,097

Total Allocations for Kilkenny County Council

€6,329,087

Total Allocations for Laois County Council

€7,531,312

Total Allocations for Leitrim County Council

€3,786,745

Total Allocations for Limerick City and County Council

€10,284,374

Total Allocations for Longford County Council

€6,625,899

Total Allocations for Louth County Council

€8,770,623

Total Allocations for Mayo County Council

€22,355,208

Total Allocations for Meath County Council

€6,603,684

Total Allocations for Monaghan County Council

€10,613,313

Total Allocations for Offaly County Council

€2,957,235

Total Allocations for Roscommon County Council

€14,375,895

Total Allocations for Sligo County Council

€37,678,970

Total Allocations for South Dublin County Council

€1,357,404

Total Allocations for Tipperary County Council

€8,738,364

Total Allocations for Waterford City and County Council

€10,133,121

Total Allocations for Westmeath County Council

€12,785,608

Total Allocations for Wexford County Council

€8,176,489

Total Allocations for Wicklow County Council

€9,272,768

Total :

€338 million

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Minister Murphy officially opens new Social Housing Schemes in Donegal.

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy TD visited Donegal on Friday to officially open four new social housing schemes and turn the sod on two new social housing developments representing an overall investment of almost €23m in Social Housing provision in Donegal under the Rebuilding Ireland Programme.

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy officially turns the sod on the Railway Park social housing scheme in Donegal town pictured with Cathaoirleach Seamus OʼDomhnaill, Seamus Neely, Chief Executive Donegal County Council, Joe Peoples, Director of Service, Minister Joe McHugh, elected members and Donegal County Council Housing staff.

Speaking at the official opening the Minister said” I am delighted to be here in Donegal to see first hand the fine work the Council are doing in the delivery of new social homes through their own construction programme and in partnership with both private developers through turnkey scheme and with Approved Housing Bodies.

I will be turning the sod on two construction schemes and will also be officially opening a further four social housing schemes at various locations across the county. In all there are 115 new homes being delivered which will provide high quality homes to cater for the different housing demands arising in Donegal, they will be, without doubt, a very welcome addition to the social housing stock in Donegal. These schemes show what Donegal County Council, and local authorities are capable of doing in delivering high quality housing through the funding support available under Rebuilding Ireland.”

Minister Murphy started his visit in Donegal Town in the morning where he turned the sod on a new development that will see 34 new social housing units constructed representing an investment of €5.3 million.

This development will incorporate 24 social housing units and two group homes and is being delivered in conjunction with Oaklee Housing Association and the HSE.

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FIREBIRD LAUNCH NEW ENVIROGREEN LOW NOX BOILER RANGE ndustry frontrunners Firebird have launched an exciting new range of Low NOx oil-fired boilers ahead of the second phase of the Ecodesign Directive. The Envirogreen range features a cuttingedge low NOx burner designed in conjunction with European burner experts Elco, which is easily installed, commissioned and serviced using a single allen key.

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Boasting technological superiority, the incorporation of the Firebird by Elco burner solves the many operational problems that are currently being experienced within the industry. Offering unbeatable reliability due to the absence of error-prone parts, the highly efficient Envirogreen range includes models for internal and external applications in a variety of outputs. Backed by PCDB listed performance data, the Envirogreen boiler looks set to become the first choice for installers and homeowners alike - and all without any associated price premium.

Commenting on the launch of the new Envirogreen range of boilers, Mark Doyle, General Manager of Firebird Heating Solutions Ltd said: “The launch of this new low NOx range with its cutting-edge burner technology, underlines Firebirdʼs ongoing commitment to provide the industry with innovative, environmentallyfriendly, yet practical heating solutions.

The Envirogreen range not only offers outstanding reliability but solves a problem that the heating industry has struggled to address - to find a reliable and costeffective low NOx alternative to the yellow flame burner.”.

Firebirdʼs new envirogreen range features a cutting-edge low NOx burner designed in conjunction with european burner experts elco.

For further information on the new Envirogreen range please visit www.firebird.ie or contact Firebird Heating Solutions on:

Tel: 026 45253

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In Stranorlar the Minister officially opened the new Gleann na Greine housing estate at Mullindrait, Stranorlar which Donegal County Council acquired recently from Longmarsh Developments Ltd. The development includes 18 three bedroom and 3 four bedroom houses and provides homes to 82 individuals.

The new estates at Castlepark in Newtowncunningham and An Ceapach in Manorcunningham were also officially opened and Minister Murphy had the privilege of handing the Boyle family keys to their new home at An Ceapach in Manorcunningham which is located on a beautiful site with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

The new development at Castlepark consists of 4 two bed and 3 three bed units while the new development at An Ceapach consists of 4 two bed and 4 three bed units.

The Minister also officially opened phase 1 of the new Leitir Beag estate at Crievesmith Letterkenny which the Council acquired from George Doherty Construction (Irl Ltd) consisting of 16 units with a further 18 units due for completion in 2019.

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy TD officially opens the Gleann na gGreine estate in Stranorlar with residents, elected members and Council officials.

The day concluded with the turning of the sod at Council owned lands a new site at Long Lane in Letterkenny which will see the construction of a social housing development of 29 units, consisting of 12 two bed, 15 three bed and 2 four bed units at a cost of just over €6 million. The tendering process is now in the final stages and the appointment of a contractor, to undertake the works, is imminent.

“This is just the beginning of Donegal County Councilʼs ambitious Social Housing Programme” explains Joe Peoples Director of Housing, Corporate and Cultural Services with Donegal County Council.

Priscilla Boyle pictured receiving the keys to her new home in An Ceapach estate Manorcunningham from Minister Eoghan Murphy.

Also pictured is Minister Joe McHugh TD and Cathaoirleach Seamus OʼDomhnaill.

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“The Councilʼs Housing Construction Programme is projected to deliver 298 social housing units over the next two to three years representing an investment in excess of €50 million.

The following projects will be on site in 2019 on Council landbanks at Killybegs, Long Lane Letterkenny, Donegal Town, St. Johnston, Raphoe, Malin and Buncrana.

Additional projects are also being planned for Donegal Town, Bundoran, Buncrana, Dunfanaghy and Letterkenny. The Council is continuing to work to source suitable landbanks throughout the County to develop new projects in addition to those currently planned.”

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The Councils Turnkey Acquisition programme is anticipated to deliver 300 to 400 social housing units in towns and villages across Donegal over the next few years.

Alongside the Housing Construction Programme the Council has purchased 208 properties under the Single House Acquisition Programme since 2015 representing an investment of over €25 million with more acquisitions expected in the coming year.

Speaking on the day Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr. Seamus OʼDomhnaill acknowledged the work being done by Donegal County Councilʼs Housing Directorate as part of the Councils Social Housing Programme.

Minister Eoghan Murphy cuts the tape to officially open the new estate at Castlepark in Newtowncunningham, helped by Troy and Cathy Kelly, residents of the estate.

Minister Eoghan Murphy TD turns the sod on the Ard Bán housing scheme in the Long Lane, Letterkenny. Pictured L-R, Liam Ward Director of Service Donegal County Council, Cllr Frank McBrearty, Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh, Senator Pearse McLaughlin, Cllr Ciaran Brogan, Seamus Neely Chief Executive Donegal County Council, Minister Eoghan Murphy TD, Joe Peoples Director of Service Donegal County Council, Patricia McIntyre, Area Manager Housing, Donegal County Council, Cllr Gerry McMonagle, Pat ʻThe Copeʼ Gallagher TD, Richard Gibson, Director of Service, Donegal County Council, John McLaughlin Director of Service, Donegal County Council, Cllr Michael McBride, Charlie McConalogue TD, Brenda Ferguson Donegal County Council and Michael Gyo, Donegal County Council.

“This is an extensive programme of work and I am delighted to be here today to see the first housing schemes under this programme being officially opened. Under this programme Donegal County Council is planning to build 298 social housing units representing an investment in excess of €50 million. In addition to this the Council is pursuing an ambitious Turnkey Acquisition programme which has the potential to deliver a substantial number of high quality homes in towns across the county over the next few years.

The Council has adopted a multifaceted approach to addressing the social housing demand in the county”

Chief Executive of Donegal County Council Seamus Neely says that the Council is committed to providing high quality housing solutions for the people of Donegal and the housing schemes being officially opened today are a great example of the excellent standard of housing being made available for families and individuals across the county.

“We have been ambitious in our approach to addressing the housing challenges that many families and individuals have been facing in Donegal. At the heart of these homes are the tenants that occupy them and all our houses have been designed with this in mind. All units are highly energy efficient, with low running costs, meeting the specific needs and requirements of tenants where necessary and are delivered to high specifications and standards in line with the building regulations. We are committed to meeting the targets and objectives set out in Rebuilding Ireland and continue to work closely with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government as the main funder of our social housing programme.”

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Grant expands Aerona3 air source Heat Pump offering Driving sustainable offerings within the plumbing and heating industry, leading manufacturer of heating technologies Grant has extended its range of highly efficient Aerona3 air source heat pumps (ASHPs) following the launch of a new 12kW model which incorporates R32 refrigerant. Leading the way as Grantʼs greenest heat pump yet, the Aerona3 12kW R32 ASHP will join existing models within Grantʼs Aerona3 range which are available in outputs of 6kW, 10kW and 16kW. The Aerona3 R32 heat pump uses a more environmentallyfriendly refrigerant which provides cleaner operation whilst continuing to deliver its renowned excellent performance.

Boasting an ErP rating of A++, the new R32 model comes in response to a heightened demand for more sustainable products that have a lower impact on the environment.

Upcoming legislative targets outlined in the 2014 EU Fluorinated Greenhouse Gas (F-Gas) Regulations seek to limit the use of gases which have the highest Global Warming Potential (GWP). With careful consideration to legislation and current trends, Grant ensured the latest model within the Aerona3 range featured R32 refrigerant which has a GWP that is significantly lower than other typical refrigerants used in heat pumps.

The refrigerant used within the Aerona3 12kW R32 model is a single component refrigerant meaning that it has no temperature glide. With just one molecule in its formation, the Aerona3 R32 modelʼs saturated liquid and vapor temperatures are the same which removes the risk of the refrigerant experiencing temperature glide. Without this, the system can recharge and recycle with greater ease, making it more efficient overall.

Aerona3 12kW R32 Model

The Aerona3 R32 model incorporates many of the familiar features which installers have come to associate with the Aerona3 ASHP range. Single phase in design and providing built in weather compensation and a base tray heating element to prevent ice formation, the Aerona3 R32 is also suitable for use with S-Plan heating control systems. Similar to all of Grantʼs existing products, the newest addition also boasts easy installation and maintenance.

Those wishing to incorporate green technology such as an Aerona3 ASHP into a new property can also take advantage of Grantʼs free of charge heat loss calculations. This service can be availed of by emailing the project plans to heatpump@grantengineering.ie.

With a compact design and lower noise levels during operation, the Aerona3 R32 has minimum impact on its surroundings. The Aerona3 R32 is currently available in a 12kW model however all outputs in the range will have R32 gas within the coming months, reinforcing Grantʼs commitment to providing its customers with greater variety and overall choice. This latest addition to Grantʼs product offering also demonstrates its position of driving green heating technologies within the industry.

The new Aerona3 R32 12kW model, along with other heating technologies within Grantʼs extensive product portfolio is available from a range of Grant stockists located throughout Ireland.

For more information visit www.grant.eu.

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Major construction report launched in Ireland shows industry set to grow by 20% in 2019, while fears grow over the looming talent shortage crisis • AECOM anticipate construction industry output to grow by 20 per cent in 2019 totalling €24 billion • Only 15% of industry feel equipped to deal with the looming talent shortage crisis • 77% of Irish construction sector feel positive about future business outlook of their industry An all island Irish construction industry review, which was published today by AECOM, analyses the industry outlook and takes a long view to what will be required to sustain development into the coming decades to 2040 An industry survey was also carried out with senior professionals in the public and private sectors to gain insight into sentiment, what is driving and blocking development and to the challenges the industry will face into the future.

As well as developing a clearer picture on the outlook, AECOM presented a growth estimate of 20% for the Irish construction industry for 2019, totalling €24 billion. This is underpinned by the fact that over three quarters of the industry surveyed stated that they felt positive about their own individual business outlook for 2019.

Director, AECOM in Ireland, John OʼRegan said, “This yearʼs review unlocked a message of positivity and optimism within the construction industry in Ireland. That being said, areas of concern were highlighted such as the sustainability of our Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plan, how prepared companies felt to deal with looming talent shortage and our infrastructural resilience in the wake of increasing climate changes”.

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“Success is not just attracting new FDI, it is also retaining it and continuing to adapt our infrastructure to ensure we meet future needs. Ireland has been tremendously effective in attracting FDI and many of these multinationals have committed to increasing their presence. However, whether it is technology firms in Dublin, pharmaceuticals in Cork or MedTech in Galway, companies tend to cluster in specific well-developed regions. Without strategic investment, these cities will become increasingly congested, uncompetitive and saturated in terms of resources. That is why greater foresight into our future infrastructure and housing requirements across cities and regional urban centres is crucial to ensure our continued economic growth and maintain our strong FDI pipeline.”

“Looking at the current challenges, 40% of industry admitted that their inability to attract and keep talent is their biggest business concern. With a significant percentage of the skilled workforce still choosing to work abroad, the pressure is mounting to attract workers to the industry. For them to choose Ireland as their longterm base, greater certainty is needed in terms of wages, costs of living and the viability of the market. Fears are mounting amongst industry that, unless access to talent improves, there will not be enough employees to meet the demands, in particular the governments housing requirements.”

“In relation to specific jobs, respondents view engineering as the most crucial skill required to keep the industry moving forward over the next 10–20 years, however, worryingly, only 15 per cent of the sector feel they are fully prepared to deal with the challenge of sourcing talent now and into the future.”

“Our report also indicated that Ireland's transport networks and services are becoming increasingly vulnerable. Our strong economic and population growth brings congestion, pressure on our broadband, water supply, sewage treatment, raw materials supply and waste management, all of which require infrastructural responses. However, these challenges are now augmented by our changing environment and the new threats facing our buildings such as flooding, wind speeds and falling debris and even temperature changes. Industry understand this has the potential to test existing infrastructure and may require new, more resilient engineering designs in the coming decades”.

“Our continued economic success and growth is inextricably linked to our approach to infrastructure. Considering Irelandʼs requirement to provide housing, clean energy, broadband, better roads and public transport, how we move forward with infrastructure in the coming two decades will be critical to our viability and sustainability as one of the leading economies in Europe”.

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National Roads Office serving road users in Donegal and the north-west Road users across Donegal are seeing the culmination of years of work in roadworks under way.

Aine McHugh, executive engineer with Donegal County Councilʼs National Roads Office, said those works also illustrate the NROʼs priorities.

“Itʼs really about the connections between places where people work, live, and socialise, and making Donegal that wee bit closer to the rest of the country,” she said. “Our office is about getting people to places in as safe and as reliable a way as we can, and opening up the north-west for investment, employment, tourism, and all the other things the north-west can offer.”

Aine McHugh, Executive Engineer in Donegal County Councilʼs National Roads Office.

While construction is the most public phase of a project, it only begins after the NRO has completed an often long and complicated process that includes initial feasibility, route selection, planning, CPO/land acquisition, detailed design and tendering – work that can take years in some cases. Information is gathered during development of a scheme from consultation and input from the public, environmental and traffic studies, existing ground profiles, and ground and archaeological investigations. All projects are subject to national rating and appraisal, so justifying getting each scheme funded is a major task.

An aerial view of the Gweebarra Bridge that shows the council's realignment of the infamous Gweebarra bends on the N56.

Photo: Clive Wasson.

“And then the roadʼs built and the traffic is on it, and itʼs like it was always there,” Aine said. “Thatʼs the best part, when you get your scheme built and you can see the planning turned into reality, and you can see the benefits that people get from it.”

Crews are on site at several major works in the county: realignment of the stretch of the N56 known locally as the Blue Banks, from Coolboy to Kilmacrennan; of the N56 from Mountcharles to Drumbeigh; of the N56 from north of Glenties to Boyoughter, part of the upgrade from Dungloe to Kilraine; and the next phase of Blackburn Bridge works on the N15, from Cappry to Ballybofey.

“Youʼre building quite a large, high-standard road while still maintaining traffic of 7,000 vehicles a day, which is one of the most difficult parts of that type of road construction,” Aine said. “One of the challenges is making sure everybody can get to work, get to school, get to wherever they have to be, and still build the road safely and efficiently.”

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Regional Donegal NRO teams serve the north-west with an overall €34 million budget for 2018. As well as roadworks, the NRO is also responsible for 39,000 signs, more than 4,500km of road lining, at least 730 structures, and an extensive road safety programme covering seven counties, including Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Galway, Monaghan, and Cavan.

The €12 million pavement programme is providing renewal and repair over a length of 32km on the national network throughout Donegal, and the bridge management section have advanced schemes throughout the region, including the new footbridge at the River Finn in Ballybofey.

A view of work at the "Blue Banks" on the N56, Coolboy to Kilmacrennan.

The NRO work closely with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, formerly the National Roads Authority.

“We work to very high-quality standards laid out by the TII, and you need to meet these standards while identifying local needs, and integrate it as best you can with the existing environment to minimize the impact on people and property,” Aine said. “Itʼs not an easy task.”

The benefits are tangible. She pointed to the work on the N56 near Glenties that has already eliminated the “Gweebarra bends” and “Meenacarn bends” as an example.

“Thatʼs a good example in that it is a part of the county where the scenery is spectacular and itʼs such a high tourism attraction, but buses were finding it difficult to manoeuvre along that road because of the tight bends,” Aine said. “These improvements have made this area more accessible for bus tours and opened up that part of the county even more for tourism.”

Cycleways and footways are a new addition to national roads projects. The N56 from Dungloe to Glenties and the new road at the Blue Banks will include cycleways, adding to road safety.

Aine has been with the NRO since 2004 and was introduced to the council roads section earlier, when she was studying civil engineering at Queens University Belfast – one of five women in a class of 75 – and worked for the council for several summers during her studies.

NRO engineers always have several major projects at different stages on the go as well as ongoing maintenance and improvements. During the economic downturn, the council adopted a strategy of working on smaller roads projects and doing the planning and design necessary to get work “shovel-ready”.

“Then when money became available, we were one of the first off the block,” Aine said.

The NRO are also progressing other major works through the design phase. “We are now working towards some really important larger projects and itʼs great to see the progression of the Trans European Transport Network project, which includes the N14 Manorcunningham to Lifford, the N15/N13 Ballybofey-Stranorlar area, and the N56/N13/N14 Letterkenny to Manorcunningham.

“These road improvement schemes are so badly needed in the county,” she said.

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Fermoy is cleanest town in 2018 League as littered city areas fail to improve

hile almost all of Irelandʼs main towns are clean, pockets of our cities continue to be littered and are not improving, according to the final litter survey of 2018 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton, presented the awards at the ceremony, crowning Fermoy as the cleanest town among those ranked according to litter levels in 2018, with Waterford City again Irelandʼs cleanest city.

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Minister Bruton said, “Combating litter is part of a much wider challenge – how we use our resources effectively and adapt to recognise environmental damage more generally. Litter is a very tangible, visible example of the kind of damage that is being done. It is vital that communities, businesses and local authorities in towns all across Ireland, work together to manage waste properly and reduce litter. I hope the recognition these awards provide spur others on to come together to make changes in their local areas.”

An Taisce, who carry out the surveys on behalf of IBAL, praised the Cork town as having ʻexceeded its usual high standards of cleanlinessʼ and adding “great care has been taken not just with regard to litter but also overall presentation.” Fermoyʼs success, last achieved in 2007, will be marked by a specially commissioned public sculpture in the town this year to the value of €40,000.

Just under 90% of towns surveyed were deemed clean, a slight improvement on the previous year, with Athlone and Killarney finishing just behind Fermoy. While Galway City registered its best result in years, almost half of city areas were littered, among them Ballybane in Galway and Dublinʼs North Inner City, which were both ʻseriously litteredʼ. Ballymun, Corkʼs Northside and Mahon were littered, while Dublin City Centre was again ʻmoderately litteredʼ.

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Disadvantaged urban areas occupied the bottom five places in the rankings. “Three years ago we deliberately shone a spotlight on specific city areas in the hope that the attention would spur councils and communities into action,” commented Conor Horgan of IBAL. “It is fair to say we have seen no noticeable improvement in any of these areas – nor have we seen much by way of substantial measures to them turn around.”

“The historic development of large areas of social housing has shaped a “them and us” society and the gap is widening. Litter is a symptom of a greater malaise and keeping these areas as clean and well presented as the rest of a city would over time have significant benefits. We need local authorities to take the lead.”

Among the areas to come in for criticism in the An Taisce report was Dublinʼs North Inner City, which suffered from litter blackspots on Oriel Street, Dunne Street, Sherrard Street Lr and Railway Street. Fana Glas in Ballybane was a litter blackspot, where “an air of neglect pervaded throughout”, with the communal areas ʻin very poor conditionʼ. Ballymunʼs result was brought down by dumping and burnt items at the former Towers and recycle facility at the Shopping Centre, while the Maples in Mahon in Cork was slammed as “not just littered but subject to dumping with soiled nappies strewn about. There were very heavy levels of all manner of litter throughout.”

The report on Corkʼs Northside highlighted the North Ring Road as being ʻalmost landfill-likeʼ in places and stated “long term littered sites that have been repeatedly highlighted in previous surveys are not being dealt with.”

“At a minimum these repeatedly littered sites, often subject to dumping, need to be targeted and cleaned up,” said Conor Horgan. “This would be the quickest and most efficient way to make inroads in these areas, but in many cases it is not happening.”

As runners-up, Athlone and Killarney will each receive a number of Norway maple trees to enhance the local environment, courtesy of the Irish Tree Centre in Cork.

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Upgraded Ballyboden Water Treatment Plant officially opened following Irish Water, in partnership with Dublin City Council and South Dublin County Council, today marked the official opening of the upgraded Ballyboden Water Treatment Plant, following a €10.5 million investment by the national water utility.

The plant was officially opened by Dick Brady, Assistant Chief Executive, Dublin City Council Environmental and Transportation Department, Eamon Gallen, Managing Director, Irish Water, and Colm Brophy TD, representing Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy TD at the event.

37,000 people have been removed from the EPA's Remedial Action List Works on the upgrades began in June 2017, and took approximately 12 months to complete.

The works involved the decommissioning of the old open water storage reservoir, the construction of a new 16 million litre covered reinforced concrete reservoir on the existing site and an upgrade to the disinfection process.

The investment has reduced contamination risks of the treated water, and as a result, over 37,000 people in Dublin City, South Dublin County and Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown have been removed from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Remedial Action List (RAL) for at-risk water supplies.

Ensuring the delivery of high quality drinking water Speaking at the event, Colm Brophy TD said: “After almost 130 years serving Dublin City, South County Dublin and Dún Laoghaire - Rathdown, the open reservoir at Ballyboden has been replaced with a more modern covered reservoir to adequately meet current requirements and the needs of future generations. This investment by Irish Water ensures that the infrastructure required for the future economic and social development of the area is in place.”

Commenting on the project, Eamon Gallen, MD of Irish Water, said: “The works carried out in Ballyboden, in partnership with Dublin City Council, will ensure the delivery of high quality drinking water to the area.

Over 37,000 people have been removed from the EPA’s RAL, and are benefitting from a more secure water supply which meets best practice.

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Works begin on €21.5 million project to upgrade the Tullamore and Birr Water Supply Schemes At the sod turning to mark the start of upgrade works on the Tullamore and Birr Water Supply Scheme: Councillor Danny Owens, Anna Marie Delaney, CEO Offaly County Council, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy and William McKnight of Irish Water.

Works carried out in partnership with Offaly County Council Today we hosted a sod-turning event to mark the start of works on a €21.5 million upgrade project on the Tullamore and Birr Water Supply Schemes.

Once completed, the upgrade works will secure the medium-term future of water supplies for both towns and ensure a reliable supply of high quality drinking water.

The contract for the design, construction and commissioning of the works was awarded to Murphy Process Engineering earlier this year and works have now commenced.

The project is expected to be completed in 2020 and will include the construction of three new water treatment plants, one in Tullamore, one in Birr and one at Clonaslee in Co. Laois.

Local development Speaking at the sod-turning event, Cllr. Danny Owens, Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council said, ‘This is most welcome news for Co. Offaly and for the 18,000 residents and businesses dependent on this water supply. Once these works are completed, residents and businesses in the area will have a safe and dependable drinking water supply.’

Deputy Marcella Corcoran-Kennedy TD said, ‘This investment by Irish Water, means that the thriving towns of Tullamore and Birr town will have the water infrastructure to support ongoing economic and social development necessary for this part Co. Offaly to grow and prosper.’

Capital spending Commenting on the project, William McKnight, Infrastructure Programme Regional Lead at Irish Water said, ‘The works that are being carried out in Tullamore and Birr by Irish Water in partnership with Offaly County L-R William McKnight, Irish Water’s Infrastructure Programme Lead; Council, will ensure the delivery of high quality Anna Marie Delany, CEO, Offaly Co. Co; Deputy Marcella Corcoran drinking water for the most populated areas of Kennedy, TD; and Cllr. Danny Owens, Cathaoirleach, Offaly Co. Co. Co. Offaly. This is one of a number of investments made by Irish Water to improve water and wastewater infrastructure across the country under its current business plan. The Irish Water Business Plan will see €5.5 billion invested in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity to 2021.'

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Project progressing to upgrade the wastewater infrastructure in the Lower Liffey Valley Area This €20 million project will provide for future population growth and economic development Irish Water is progressing an upgrade to the wastewater infrastructure in the Lower Liffey Valley area. The project includes the construction of approximately 5km of new sewer network to the Leixlip Wastewater Treatment Plant, a pumping station within the site boundary of the wastewater treatment plant. It also includes the construction of approximately 8km of underground wastewater network from the wastewater treatment plant to a sewer on the Damastown Road, near Blanchardstown, Co. Dublin.

Works on the project are due to commence in late 2019\ Irish Water is investing approximately €20 million in the project which will increase the wastewater network capacity providing for future population growth and economic development.

Irish Water has published a notice confirming the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to acquire the necessary lands and wayleaves required to upgrade the wastewater network in the Lower Liffey Valley area. The CPO relates to permanent wayleaves and temporary construction rights for the project. The CPO will enable Irish Water to construct, lay, keep, operate, maintain, renew, repair and inspect the proposed infrastructure required.

The targeted date for completion for this project Q3 2021.

Commenting on the project, John Joyce, Infrastructure Programme Regional Lead with Irish Water said, “This significant project will ensure that the wastewater network in Leixlip will have the capacity to provide for future population growth and economic development in the area. It forms part of Irish Water’s investment to upgrade the wastewater network in Kildare. Developing our wastewater infrastructure to ensure it has the capacity to meet the current and future needs of the area and support future development is a key priority for Irish Water. Irish Water will continue to update the communities in the area on the progress of this essential wastewater infrastructure investment.”

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Irish Water commits to a new strategic energy initiative in partnership with SEAI Committed to improving energy efficiency and reducing our carbon emissions Irish Water has renewed the Public Sector Energy Partnership Programme with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the utility has committed to a new strategic initiative to embed energy efficiency in its operations.

Treating and safeguarding drinking water and treating and returning wastewater to the sea are very energy intensive activities.

Irish Water accounts for 21% of public sector electricity consumption and is by far the largest consumer of electricity in the public sector.

Jim Gannon, Chief Executive of SEAI and Eamon Gallen, Managing Director of Irish Water

Make energying efficiency an integral part of our BAU Mindful of both the cost of energy and the impact on the environment, Irish Water developed a Sustainable Energy Strategy in 2016 which is underpinned by Irish Water’s Energy Policy. Both the policy and the strategy set out Irish Water’s commitment and our objectives for improving energy efficiency and reducing our carbon emissions.

Irish Water has made significant progress in making our plants and our business more energy efficient. By 2017, water services had achieved a 22.4% improvement in energy efficiency performance with a corresponding saving of over 51,000 tonnes of carbon. Irish Water is implementing a sustainable energy strategy to increase our energy efficiency to 33% by 2020.

Energy efficient design for all projects Talking about Irish Water’s and SEAI’s Public Sector Energy Partnership Programme, Irish Water’s Managing Director Eamon Gallen said “We are delighted to be working with SEAI and to get their support to develop a longer term strategic initiative to support the embedding of energy efficiency within Irish Water. It will build on Irish Water’s sustainable energy strategy to become an energy efficient, low carbon, sustainable water utility.”

“Irish Water’s goal, with support from the SEAI, is to make energy efficiency an integral part of business as usual. We have already started to implement energy efficient design for all projects and Irish Water will leverage SEAI’s proven methodologies and expertise in this area. Irish Water will continue to embed energy efficiency measures into our current plants and other assets. Energy efficiency will become part of projects at all stages including concept, initial design, through procurement, construction, commissioning and handover, to operation and maintenance over the long term.”

“This is a great opportunity for both ourselves and SEAI to transform the industry at a national level and embed energy efficiency within our operations to help achieve the optimal long term sustainable outcome.”

Commenting on the partnership, Jim Gannon, Chief Executive of SEAI said “We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationship with Irish Water and to bring our collaboration to a new level. SEAI offers support, advice and training to public bodies and our most recent report shows that the public sector has made €1 billion in energy savings and avoided 3.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions since 2009. We look forward to helping Irish Water reduce and decarbonise their energy consumption as they continue to improve our critical water infrastructure.”

Leveraging SEAI’s proven methodologies and expertise Irish Water is affirming its commitment to reviewing and implementing a structured energy management programme; implementing an annual action plan to deliver energy savings in the short term; identifying and implementing longer term strategic initiatives; adopting energy efficient procurement practices; reporting annually on our energy efficiency initiative and savings made; and sharing information on our progress with SEAI. For their part SEAI, as part of this partnership is committed to working in partnership with Irish Water helping the utility to achieve valuable and sustainable energy savings as a contribution to meeting the national target for 2020 and beyond.

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CPO for Wastewater Treatment Plant site at Falcarragh to be published CPO essential for the delivery of this project.

Irish Water is working in partnership with Donegal County Council to deliver the Falcarragh Sewerage Scheme. Irish Water has submitted an application for a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) which is essential for the delivery of this project.

This order will allow Irish Water to formally acquire the lands required for this project.

Irish Water will publish the public notice for the CPO to acquire the necessary lands, and wayleaves and the CPO will also be submitted to An Bord Pleanála.

Consultations have been on-going with all landowners identified on the proposed scheme. Irish Water was unable to acquire all of the required wayleaves and lands on a voluntary basis. Given the importance of the project, Irish Water will now endeavour to acquire the wayleaves and lands by way of CPO pursuant to the provisions of the Water Services Act, 2007 (as amended). Irish Water has submitted the Compulsory Purchase Order to An Bord Pleanála.

The proposed scheme will end the discharge of approximately 1,300 wheelie bins of poorly treated sewage into Ballyness Bay per day.

Speaking about the project Colm Claffey, Irish Water, stated “Irish Water is increasing investment in wastewater infrastructure year on year and has planned to increase spending on wastewater projects in the existing Capital Investment Plan. Many of wastewater projects are currently in the design and planning stage and expenditure during this stage is significantly lower than during construction. Consequently there will be a large increase in wastewater expenditure over the next few years up to the end of 2021.”

This project forms part of Irish Water’s investment plan where works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan. Delivery of the Business Plan will involve a €5.5bn investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.

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€2 million investment in Cavan Sewer Rehabilitation Project Works are progressing using non-dig technology to minimise impacts to the community Irish Water, working in partnership with Cavan County Council, is investing over €2 million in rehabilitating the sewer network in Cavan Town and surrounding areas. Works are progressing using non-dig technology to minimise impacts to residents, road users, the general public, and businesses and schools.

McBreen Environmental Limited is working on behalf of Irish Water to deliver this project with works expected to be complete in mid-2019.

Potential for sewer flooding and odour issues will be reduced This investment is good news for local businesses and residents as it will address structural defects in the existing sewer, improve the performance of the sewer network as well as reducing the potential for sewer flooding and odour issues.

Explaining further the scope of the project, Eunan Canavan, Irish Water said: “As part of the project, Irish Water has undertaken CCTV surveys of approximately 23km of sewer network to determine their condition and the extent of any defects. The sewers haven been cleaned in order to ensure an accurate inspection and new liners have been installed into the existing sewers where structural defects were identified.

“This is an essential project for Cavan Town and in delivering it we are mindful of the impact the works could have on businesses. Irish Water and the contractors have made every effort to ensure odours are kept to a minimum and trenchless techniques have been used for this project in order to reduce impacts on businesses and residents and to minimise traffic disruption.”

Works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues This project forms part of Irish Water’s investment plan where works have been prioritised to address the most critical issues in line with commitments outlined in Irish Water’s Business Plan.

Delivery of the Business Plan will involve a €5.5bn investment in capital spending on drinking water and wastewater quality and capacity and new infrastructure up to 2021.

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Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme progressing to support current and future development in east Kildare Project will increase capacity of wastewater network and support population and economic growth Irish Water is progressing the Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme which includes the installation of over 18km of new gravity sewers and rising mains, and the upgrade of wastewater pumping stations at Clane, Sallins and Monread.

The upgraded wastewater plant will bring it in line with EU best practices.

A notice has been published to confirm the granting of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to acquire the necessary lands for permanent way leaves, permanent right of way and temporary working areas for the project.

Once the proposed project is complete it will increase the capacity of the wastewater network and support future population and economic growth in east Kildare. It will also reduce the risk of flooding or storm overflows for Naas, Kill, Johnstown, Sallins, Clane and Prosperous.

What does the project involve?

• The installation of over 18km of new gravity sewers and rising mains to reinforce and improve the existing wastewater sewer network • The upgrade of wastewater pumping stations at Clane, Sallins and Monread • The construction of additional storm water storage tanks at all three pumping stations Commenting on the announcement, Paul Fallon, Wastewater Infrastructure Manager at Irish Water said “Irish Water is committed to investing in the wastewater treatment infrastructure in Kildare to support the needs of the growing population. The Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme will benefit the local community and the environment and will ensure that Ireland complies with the Urban Wastewater Treatment Regulations 2001 and conditions as set out in the EPA’s Wastewater Discharge Licence."

Works on the scheme are expected to commence later this year with the project due for completion in 2021.

More information

For more information on this project and its benefits, visit the Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme project page.

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Monksland Wastewater Treatment Plant operator Joe Grady asks the public to be mindful of what you dispose of through the sewer network Monksland Wastewater Treatment Plant is one of the most complex in Ireland "Wet wipes, nappies, children’s toys, drug needles, sanitary items, and believe it or not, fats, oils, and grease are all items that we currently find ending up at Monksland wastewater treatment plant.” commented Joe Grady, the Roscommon County Council Plant Operator at the Monksland Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The Monksland Wastewater Treatment Plant is one of the most important pieces of Infrastructure in the region. It is the largest in Roscommon and is one of the most complex in the country. It treats the wastewater from all of the industries in Monksland and also from residents in the surrounding area. The wastewater from some of the biggest employers in the county, including Alexion, Alkermes, Aran Chemicals and Jazz Pharmaceutical, is catered for by this plant. Joe notes that “This treatment plant and its ongoing upgrades are vital to jobs in the area, not just in industry but also in the tourist sector, and it is essential to supporting local families. It is up to our team to ensure that the treatment plant is fully operational and fully compliant with all of the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards.”

Ensuring wastewater is treated and returned safely to the environment Joe, a native of Lecarrow and now living in Kiltoom in Athlone, has been working at the wastewater treatment plant in Monksland for 19 years this January. With the help of his colleague Austin and a wider group of engineers and scientists, it is his responsibility to ensure that the wastewater you flush and pour down your toilet and sink, is treated and returned safely to the environment.

Items like fats, oils and grease that people pour down their sinks cause Joe and his colleague the biggest problems. “In addition to the Monksland plant, we manage 13 pumping stations, two other smaller wastewater treatment plants and seven kilometres of network pipes. When people pour grease down their sink it solidifies, damages our pumps and causes blockages that we must respond to immediately. Our team cannot ask industry to stop producing waste, or for people to stop flushing toilets and using their sinks, but we ask people to please be mindful of what they dispose of through the sewer network.”

Think Before You Pour Irish Water and Roscommon County Council are asking for the public’s help. Our message is simple - We want to remind the public that small changes in our kitchens can help. We’re asking the you to “think before you pour” fats, oils and greases down the sink. It only takes an extra couple of seconds to safely dispose of products like fat by putting them in the refuse bin.

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Minister Murphy announces new three-year investment programme for water services in rural areas r. Eoghan Murphy, T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government has announced a new investment programme for water services in rural areas. The Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme is to run from 2019 to 2021.

M

Capital funding of €23 million has been provided in 2019, an increase of €3million from the existing programme which finished in 2018. A total of €75 million has been committed under the National Development Plan to 2021.

The announcement follows the review the Minister put in place to examine the wider investment needs relating to rural water services. In 2018 the Minister appointed a high level Working Group which has now made recommendations for changes and improvements, which the Minister has accepted.

Key features of the Programme include: • Significant capital investment to support Group Water Schemes in rural areas.

• A new grant measure to support rural communities to link to the public drinking water and waste water network.

• The maximum grant for refurbishment works to a domestic well will increase from €2,031 to €3,000. A new and additional provision is included for a maximum grant of €5,000 where a new well is required as an exceptional measure.

• The means test to qualify for a grant to carry out improvement works on a septic tank is being abolished and the maximum grant is being increased to €5,000. Currently, the maximum grant amounts available are €2,500 and €4,000 depending on the applicantʼs means. Eligibility for the grant scheme is also being extended.

For the capital funding measures to support group water schemes, local authorities are now being invited to submit proposals, in consultation with local group water schemes in their counties. The deadline for receipt of proposals in the Ministerʼs Department is Thursday 14 March 2019.

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The changes to the grant schemes for private wells and septic tanks are planned to come into effect at the end of April 2019. Guidelines and revised application forms will be sent to local authorities before the changes take effect.

Announcing the new Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme, Minister Murphy said: “The Programme has been expanded and will now consist of eight separate funding measures rather than the six that were in place. There are some significant changes from the previous programme with an increased emphasis on the protection of water sources, development of community water services connections and changes to grants for private wells and septic tanks. To facilitate these enhancements I have secured an increased capital funding amount for the Programme of €23 million, an increase of €3 million on 2018. Under the National Development Plan, total funding of €75 million is to be made available for the period 2019-2021.

The increase in funding demonstrates the Governmentʼs strong commitment to supporting this critically

important resource. It also reflects the need for additional targeted investment in order to improve the quality and availability of rural water services.

Good quality water services are a prerequisite to every aspect of social and economic development, and health and wellbeing in all parts of the country. The economic development, as well as the population and employment growth and distribution targeted in the National Planning Framework to 2040 will be dependent on the capacity of our water services infrastructure. We must carefully plan for the efficient and sustainable use and development of water resources and water services in our rural areas” Full details of the measures supported under the programme and the revised grants schemes are set out on the departments website.

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Minister Murphyʼs statement on CSO figures for house completions in 2018 Mr Eoghan Murphy TD, Minister for Housing, Planning & Local Government, welcomed the publication of the CSO data in respect of housing completions in 2018.

“This is very positive news from the CSO regarding the number of new homes built last year. There was a 25% increase on 2017, with over 18,000 new homes being built.

In addition, more than 2,500 homes were brought out of long term vacancy, and almost 800 dwellings in unfinished housing developments were completed meaning the number of new homes available for use increased by almost 21,500 last year. This does not include the 3,742 bed spaces completed in the student sector in 2018.

While there was a 7% increase in the number of new apartments built, comparing 2018 to 2017, we know that we need to build much more and that some sites were delayed because of changes made to apartment guidelines. New planning permissions for apartments have increased dramatically in 2018.

Rebuilding Ireland is substantially increasing the supply of new homes and we need to drive new builds higher again in 2019.

We know that this increase in supply is contributing to the moderation in the growth in house prices.

In the meantime we will continue to make every effort to protect people in housing insecurity, to move people out of emergency accommodation and to help people who are paying too high a rent or who are unable to afford to buy a home. But increasing supply remains at the root of solving all of these problems, and that is exactly what Rebuilding Ireland is doing.”

Link to CSO Report:https://www.cso.ie/en/releasesandpublications/er/ndc/newdwellingcompletionsq42018/

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Minister Canney announces funding for Geological Survey Ireland community Geoheritage projects Minister Sean Canney TD, Minister of State for Natural Resources at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, has announced the 2019 Geological Survey Ireland Geoheritage funding awards at an event in Maam Cross, Co Galway.

The funds are available under the Geopark Grant Scheme in Geological Survey Ireland. They support the development and publication of educational and outreach materials by small community groups, established geotourism sites, aspiring geoparks and UNESCO Global Geoparks.

The aim of the fund is to encourage the telling of the Irish geological story, improve the understanding of geoscience and to engage with groups throughout the country. Funds with a total value of â‚Ź65,000 will be awarded to thirteen groups across eleven counties this year.

Projects include a citizen science river observation pilot scheme in Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare, interpretive signs at Cousane Gap in the Sheehy Mountains west Cork, and development of a guide to the geological heritage of Sligo town.

Minister Canney TD said: "It is great to see this community involvement with Geological Survey Ireland. It allows for meaningful engagement with geoscientists to use the data collected over the decades for local applications. It encourages local groups to take ownership of their heritage and to see the beauty and value in small, local stories."

GSI Director Koen Verbruggen said he was delighted the Geopark Grant Scheme had been expanded this year and he looked forward to the results of the community collaborations. "The Geological Survey works throughout the country and this is one way to give back to communities, to foster good relationships, and to encourage people to work with us to use the data, maps and expertise to develop local tourism and educational resources."

"Geology is the foundation of the heritage of Ireland and should be celebrated as part of who we are. Our tourism industry is influenced by the landscape and the underlying rocks, and the geological and geographical features give rise to our agriculture, food, place names and traditions. Thanks to the broad diversity of geology in Ireland and the relative recentness of the shaping of the landscape, every townland has the potential for an interesting geoheritage story. Initially, the fund was available only to the three UNESCO Global Geoparks and aspiring geoparks but was opened to all groups this year in an effort to promote geodiversity, geoheritage and geoscience education" continued Koen Verbruggen.

The event at Maam Cross was part of the annual Irish UNESCO Global Geopark Forum.

This all-island forum brings together the UNESCO Geoparks and aspiring geoparks to discuss and share good practice in terms of finances, management, community engagement and education. The forum is hosted this year by Joyce Country and Western Lakes aspiring geopark.

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MOTORWAYCAREʼs vision to leverage with their knowledge and build on their experience to create a comprehensive and competitive business, also ensuring that this new venture goes not just one, but many steps further to provide both product, service, knowledge, and training to their partners, suppliers and contractors alike has been the driving force in achieving this ambitious and prestigious position in only 6 years.

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Nationwide Data Collection (NDC) commenced trading in Ireland and the UK in 2008 and a new European office was opened in the Netherlands in 2016.

NDC provide specialist data collection services for transport planning, traffic engineering and market research. Our staff can offer clients many years of survey experience which equals or exceeds that of any of our competitors.

We possess a breadth of technical resources to address any scale of data collection project with specific experience across a wide range of data collection areas.

Our aim is to rapidly grow by increased geographical coverage and technical diversification to become the largest independent data collection consultancy in Europe.

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Courtney Deery Heritage is an innovative archaeological and cultural heritage consultancy that provides advice, assessment, management, conservation and promotion on heritage related issues to both public and private sectors.

Our team provides heritage planning, test excavation, monitoring and excavation services. Our strength lies in our cost effective and efficient delivery of these high-quality services.

We have an in-depth knowledge of the archaeological requirements of Irelandʼs planning process and construction industry ensuring that clients' interests are dealt with effectively and results achieved while protecting, preserving and enhancing heritage assets.

Our assessments take place on a nationwide basis in greenfield, brownfield and urban environments including sensitive historic towns and cities.

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Revised standard for Manhole Covers and Gully Gratings.

EN 124:1994 is now superseded by EN 124:2015 in Ireland.

EJ, as the European leader in the manufacture of access covers and gratings will certify with recognised independent third parties to guarantee conformance to the highest standards in the industry.

What are the key differences of EN 124:2015?

Additional performance requirements for manhole tops and gully tops made of specific materials such as ductile iron, fabricated steel and composite material are included.

• Child safety feature added- tests the resistance against the removal of covers or gratings by children

• Skid resistance test added – ensuring the durability of skid resistance against loss of grip is ensured

• Definition for "locking accessory" added – requires type of locking system to be defined

• Test for securing of covers/gratings within the frame added – ensured by using materials with proven resistance to corrosion

• Recommendations for installation added.

Call us to arrange a Lunch & Learn seminar on correct product selection, accredited installations and the revised EN 124:2015 standard.

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The Archaeological Diving Company Ltd (ADCO) is celebrating two decades in business as Irelandʼs premier archaeological consultancy specialising in Underwater Archaeology. We provide expert service using inhouse skills, be it for bridge-crossings, flood alleviation, cables, or port and harbour projects.

Our staff comprise experienced maritime archaeologists and capable civil engineering divers with over 40 years of work in the Oil and Gas sector; the skill-set provides pragmatic and cost-effective solutions to exacting standards. We work closely with design teams, taking projects from inception, through EIAR appraisal, to construction. Whether we dive underwater or work on land, we adopt an ʻamphibiousʼ approach to resolve wetland projects, offering clients a complete package of expertise and resolution for terrestrial and underwater components.

ADCOʼs Dan Lenehan prepares his drone for an aerial survey of Courtown Harbour, for Wexford CC

Committed to publication, R&D and public outreach, our staff are skilled public speakers. For more information, visit our website www.adco-ie.com, or call us on 01 908 1541 to discuss a project.

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Preparing for an underwater inspection in the River Erne, Enniskillen, for Waterways Irelandʼ

LAN LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS

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FRONT COVER LAN 37 No 6:Layout 1

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