Local Authority News - Vol. 40. No. 1 by Giltron

• Major boost for Ireland and tourism with €73million investment in new world class visitor experience • Transformative €10 million Limerick Greenway opens to public

• Ireland will not meet its 2020 Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction targets. Action is needed now to meet 2030 EU targets (epa)

CONTENTS Vol 40 No. 1

FEATURES • TRANSFORMATIVE €10 MILLION LIMERICK GREENWAY OPENS TO PUBLIC 3

Published by:

GILTRON LTD RIVERVIEW LODGE, DUBLIN ROAD, NAVAN, CO. MEATH. Tel: 00353 46 9072841 Email: info@localauthoritynews.ie Website: www.localauthoritynews.ie

ISSN NO. 1393-0394 LOCAL AUTHORITY NEWS is available FREE OF CHARGE and ON LINE 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, StateSponsored and Development Bodies and Agencies.

• MAJOR BOOST FOR IRELAND AND TOURISM WITH €73MILLION INVESTMENT IN NEW WORLD CLASS VISITOR EXPERIENCE

• FIREBIRD LEADING THE CHARGE TO COMBAT IRELAND’S CLIMATE WOES HVO A GAME-CHANGER FOR HOME HEATING

• €9.28 MILLION HAS BEEN AWARDED TO GALWAY COUNTY COUNCIL THROUGH THEIR URDF FUNDING APPLICATION IN COLLABORATION WITH IARNRÓD ÉIREANN.

• GRANT’S INNOVATIVE HEATING TECHNOLOGIES ARE REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS AND FUTURE PROOFING NEW BUILD PROPERTIES 13 • SIGNIFICANT CARBON REDUCTION OBJECTIVES HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE CLIMATE ACTION BILL (ECOCEM)

• SPOTLIGHT ON THE MIDLANDS

• DECARBONISATION AND SOCIAL HOUSING

• CORK COUNTY COUNCIL ANNOUNCE PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENT PLAN FOR COBH 20 • IRELAND WILL NOT MEET ITS 2020 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGETS. ACTION IS NEEDED NOW TO MEET 2030 EU TARGETS (EPA)

REGULARS IRISH WATER UPDATES

DEPARTMENT BRIEFS

PRODUCT INFO

CLASSFIEDS

Transformative €10 million Limerick Greenway opens to public

The Limerick Greenway, the newly renovated 40km scenic off-road walking and cycling route connecting the three market towns of Rathkeale, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale, opens to the public today (1 July). Earmarked to be transformative for the region, the €10 million visionary project is the biggest outdoor tourism amenity project ever undertaken in Limerick by Limerick City and County Council. Built along the former Limerick to Kerry train line, extensive works on Irelandʼs newest tourism amenity include the restoration of two 19th century station houses at Ardagh and Barnagh, the renovation of the Barnagh Train Tunnel, and the complete resurfacing of the route. Weaving its way through West Limerickʼs traditional agricultural landscape, the Greenway can be accessed from the towns and villages of Ardagh, Rathkeale, Newcastle West, Barnagh, Templeglantine and Abbeyfeale, with a wealth of shops, restaurants, cafes, public amenities and accommodation options. Limerick Greenway from Limerick.ie on Vimeo. Limerick City and County Council Chief Executive Pat Daly said: “Trojan work has gone into making the opening of the Greenway possible this summer despite the pandemic. Although construction ceased earlier this year, causing significant delays to timelines, our ambition for the Greenway never faltered. Now, due to the tireless work of so many, we are delighted to open it this week. “Stretching through the rural countryside of West Limerick, the Greenway will help to balance investment across the county and give a boost to areas beyond the urban draw of Limerick city. The towns of Rathkeale, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale already have so much to offer, and the Greenway will be pivotal in assisting them, and the region as a whole, to thrive and flourish”

Sean Curtin | Limerick Greenway The Limerick Greenway project has been led by Limerick City and County Council with funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development, Department of Transport and Fáilte Ireland. Along the route, visitors can pass through the 115m Barnagh Train Tunnel and cross the cast-iron Fergusonʼs Viaduct, both restored relics of the 19th century trainline. Visitors can also tour Desmond Castle in Newcastle West, visit the village of Ardagh where the iconic Ardagh Chalice was discovered, and explore the unique musical tradition of the Sliabh Luachra region in Abbeyfeale and Templeglantine. Activities across the region include fishing on the River Deel in Rathkeale, golf and horse riding in Newcastle West, and public parks and playgrounds, including a skatepark at Castle Demesne in Newcastle West. Gordon Daly, Director of Service at Limerick City and County Council, said: “The past 16 months have shown the value of outdoor amenities, and the Limerick Greenway aligns with the Governmentʼs strategy to invest in infrastructure that supports healthy lifestyles and sustainable travel options. Running all the way from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale, this fully accessible route will allow people from all over the country to safely explore and enjoy County Limerick. “The Greenway is also a strategically important piece of economic infrastructure for the region, and will provide a major boost for tourism this summer and in the years ahead, creating jobs and supporting local communities. We are delighted to reach this milestone and welcome visitors to the Limerick Greenway this summer and look forward to an official opening ceremony for the project later this year.”

For more information, visit limerickgreenway.ie. To follow on social media use the hashtag #LimerickGreenway and visit the following channels: Facebook: @LimerickGreenway Instagram: @LimerickGreenway

Major boost for Ireland and tourism with €73million investment in new world class visitor experience •

The large-scale tourism attractions awarded funding are in counties Cavan, Donegal, Dublin and Mayo

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The projects displayed the greatest potential to increase employment, drive visitors to the region and lengthen the tourism season beyond the summer

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Up to 8,000 direct and indirect jobs are set to be created as a result of this investment, with over €290million generated from domestic and international visitors

• A major investment of €73million to develop four new world-class Irish tourist attractions has been announced by the Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin and Fáilte Ireland today. Fáilte Ireland is investing €44.3million of the total investment in what Minster Martin is describing as “the most significant investment in visitor attractions ever undertaken by Fáilte Ireland that will have far-reaching national and regional economic benefits.” Up to 8,000 direct and indirect jobs are set to be created and sustained across the regional economy over the next 10 years as a result of this investment and itʼs expected over €290million will be generated from domestic and international visitors. Fáilte Irelandʼs economic analysis states every €1million spent by tourists helps to supports 27 jobs in the Irish tourism sector. Todayʼs announcement is the culmination of a highly competitive application process which began in 2019 and includes a total match funding of €29million from public and private project partners bringing the total investment to €73million. Under Fáilte Irelandʼs *Platforms for Growth Investment Grants Scheme for Immersive Heritage and Cultural Attractions the four new and strategically important large-scale visitor attractions will unlock regional dispersal of visitors and extend the tourism season in these regions beyond the traditional summer months. The successful projects will cater for all tastes. They range from a UNESCO Global Geopark in the border county of Cavan to a Fort perched on a hilltop in Donegal overlooking the Wild Atlantic Way; and from a state-of-the-art flight simulator in the centre of Dublin to the reimagining and rewilding of a vast estate in Mayo offering uplifting nature-based experiences on the West Coast.

The unique attractions that have been offered Fáilte Ireland investment funding are: • Shannon Pot & Cavan Burren Park, Blacklion, Co. Cavan - €4.8million Fáilte Ireland investment • Fort Dunree & Head, Buncrana, Co. Donegal - €9.3million Fáilte Ireland investment • ʻThis is Irelandʼ North City Centre, Dublin 1 - €10million Fáilte Ireland investment • Westport House Estate & Gardens, Westport, Co. Mayo - €20.2million Fáilte Ireland investment Announcing the four successful projects at the site of the Shannon Pot & Cavan Burren Park Minister Catherine Martin said: “Todayʼs significant funding announcement will ensure world-class visitor attractions are created that will attract domestic and international tourists to the four locations which will not just benefit the counties where theyʼre located but will motivate people to stay longer and explore more widely across the region. This investment in creative and impactful large-scale visitor experiences is critical to strengthening Irelandʼs reputation internationally as a must-visit holiday destination and provides a catalyst for further innovation in the tourism sector. This is the most significant investment in visitor attractions ever undertaken by Fáilte Ireland that will have farreaching national and regional economic benefits.” Paul Kelly, CEO of Fáilte Ireland added: “Driving regional tourism growth has always been a key priority for Fáilte Ireland but it is now more important than ever as we rebuild the sector and recover from the devastation of Covid19. The aim of the Platforms for Growth 1 funding scheme is to grow Irelandʼs stock of large-scale visitor attractions to appeal to both domestic and international visitors. The standard of applications received for this Scheme was incredibly high and we are encouraged by the level of innovation and creativity demonstrated. The four awarded projects are truly best-in-class. They are diverse, engaging and unique and will help visitors connect with Ireland and bring the countryʼs vibrant culture, heritage and people to life.” Fáilte Irelandʼs approach to investments in attractions is underpinned by a requirement of operators to deliver international best practice standards. The projects awarded funding under Platforms for Growth 1 were strategically selected under strict eligibility criteria* that displayed the greatest potential for economic impact in their region. They successfully demonstrated substantial capacity to drive visitors to the area; increase employment; lengthen the tourist season; a commitment to operate under the highest international commercial standards for visitor attractions; and strengthen the portfolio of Irish visitor experiences for domestic and international audiences. Platforms for Growth (PFG) is one of a number of investment mechanisms that Fáilte Ireland has developed in recent years to drive sustainable development of the tourism sector leading to job creation and revenue growth. PFG is funded under the Governmentʼs Project Ireland 2040 strategy. Fáilte Ireland as the National Tourism Development Authority will continue to invest significantly over the coming years and intends to launch further investment schemes to deliver key strategic initiatives to support the recovery of the tourism sector. Included in this will be investment schemes linked to the outcome of regional tourism plans which are currently being developed.

Firebird leading the charge to combat Irelandʼs climate woes HVO - a game-changer for home heating Switching to eco-friendly HVO as a drop-in replacement for kerosene in existing domestic boilers would cost homeowners a one-off conversion cost of less than €400 and help Ireland reach its 2030 Climate Action plan goals.

According to Mark Doyle, general manager of Firebird, Irelandʼs leading player in the home heating market, there are currently approx. 700,000 liquid fuel-burning boilers in Irish homes. If these homes switched to HVO, up to 90% of greenhouse gas emissions would be eliminated and emissions such as nitrogen oxide (NOx) would be dramatically reduced, literally overnight. Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is one of the cleanest fuels on the market, 100% fossil fuel free and sustainable. Derived from raw materials such as wastes, residues and vegetable oils. “Firebird does not sell liquid fuels. Firebird has no vested interest, so this fuel is not a commercial opportunity for Firebird - homeowners and the environment are those who would benefit,” explained Mark Doyle of Firebird. “Thankfully, the new homes that are being built in Ireland now have a high energy rating but itʼs the 700,000 older homes that must adapt and improve in efficiency. Implementing a simple HVO strategy could see Ireland converting these domestic boilers with a low-cost solution to achieve huge environmental savings overnight.”

The switch to HVO for a kerosene boiler is achieved through a simple change of the burner to the Firebird by Elco HVO burner. A boiler (Elco) burning on HVO would instantly reduce its emissions to 0.036kg of CO2 per kWh - far lower than gas or electricity. With a growing drive and responsibility to tackle the root causes of climate change and to reduce our environmental impact both at a national and micro level, fossil-free HVO offers the most simple and straightforward solution for both homeowners and the Government. Ireland is highly unlikely to reach its goal, (or even anywhere close to it), of bringing older homes up to the required energy rating by 2030. While subsidised home insulation programmes are an important incentive, a focus on HVO conversions could pay quick dividends. Adapting to HVO for domestic heating is not a radical move, in fact Ireland would only be following a trend that is becoming increasingly common and popular for domestic and commercial heating solutions across the globe. The UK, France and Germany are among those who use HVO in various sectors, including transport and domestic heating.

Norman Armstrong testing HVO

Leading the charge in innovation, Firebird Heating Solutions has trialled and tested HVO in Ireland to prove that it can be implemented almost immediately, requiring little or no modification to existing home heating systems - no significant investment beyond a small conversion cost of €400, simply the introduction of the Firebird by Elco HVO burner delivering instant savings for homeowners and the environment. Firebirdʼs trials proved in just one month how greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced from five tonnes to just 500kg per year for an average four-bedroom house. Its trials proved how household greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced by 90% decreasing by up to six tonnes annually. Confident that HVO is not just the future but the ʻnowʼ, Firebirdʼs manufacturing sites in Cork, Northern Ireland and England have been running on HVO for the last 12 months. “Weʼre passionate about providing sustainable alternatives and we believe a switch to HVO is the most simple, obvious and logical solution for both homeowners and the Government. “A move to a renewable, 100% fossil fuel free and a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel for domestic boilers shouldnʼt be seen as an option, but a necessity.” This innovative approach to problem solving is just one of the reasons why Firebird is a market leader in home heating; always adapting, always developing practical world class solutions with a mission to set new standards of sustainability for the home heating market.

For more information, visit www.firebird.ie

€9.28 million has been awarded to Galway County Council through their URDF funding application in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann. There are three main elements to the funding allocation which is centred around the existing train station at Oranmore in County Galwayʼs metropolitan area. Funding has been awarded for: 1. Railway Infrastructure Upgrades to include a 1KM passing railway loop at the existing Oranmore Train Station; including additional platform and associated infrastructure (12 million) 2. Design of the local centre (see attached) and lands south of the train station to include a detailed design of the local centre, associated car park (existing), (architectural/structural engineering detail) and landscaping plan (for public use); (€300,000) 3. A study on the Design Development of Typologies to implement the Urban Framework Plan (€75,000) Primarily the focus has been on approximately 60HA of land around Oranmore Train Station which are the subject of a comprehensive Urban Framework Plan (UFP). However, the benefits of the proposal as outlined would reach far beyond the UFP area. At the time of the funding application (May 2020) the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (now Department of Transport) provided written confirmation of their commitment to the project from a Match Funding perspective whereby €3 million is provided from the Sustainable Mobility Investment Programme. The Match Funding for the remaining elements of the proposal (points 2 & 3 above) will be provided by Galway County Council (€93,750). Critical to the success of the Urban Framework Plan will be a high-quality rail service that is both dependable and frequent which reduces reliance on the private car. The existing single-track rail line between Galway and Athenry is over 20km long, and the single-track nature of the rail line limits the maximum frequency of trains to 3 trains per hour (every 20 minutes). A passing rail loop at Oranmore Station would improve this frequency to 15 minute intervals (4 trains per hour) at peak times. Subject to fleet availability, this would increase to 12 minute intervals (5 trains per hour) at peak times, which amounts to a 40% increase in rail capacity and an upgrade in the frequency of services to an almost “turn-up and go” railway service for commuters and other users.

Grantʼs innovative heating technologies are reducing carbon emissions and future proofing new build properties For many years, Grantʼs main priority has been to manufacture heating technologies that provide the highest efficiencies and reduce carbon emissions to help on the journey to zero carbon. As more new developments are built throughout Ireland, demand for innovative, sustainable and renewable heating technologies continues to increase amongst those working in the construction trade. With a growing focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact, incorporating renewable heating sources into a new build property is crucial as it will help to future-proof the property, whilst also helping to meet Part L compliance of building regulations.

Grant Aerona3 R32 air to water air source heat pump.

A popular and renewable main heat source for new builds is the highly efficient Grant Aerona³ R32 air to water air source heat pump which provides compliance and an energy efficient, sustainable and cost-effective way to heat a property. With an ErP rating of A+++, the Aerona³ R32 range is available in outputs of 6kW, 10kW, 13kW and 17kW and the units can help to achieve nearly zero-energy building (NZEB) standards, as required by all new build properties in Ireland. Grant also provides those working on new build properties with highly efficient hot water storage options, including the new Grant Integrated Unit and the pre-plumbed and pre-wired hot water cylinder. Both cylinders have a 210 litre capacity, with large solid stainless steel coils to give quick and efficient hot water production. The pre-plumbed cylinder has the zone valves and controls fitted, allowing for simple and efficient pipework and electrical connections. The Integrated Unit has all the benefits of a pre-plumbed cylinder, however it is enclosed in a sleek white casing and is commonly fitted in utility rooms, where space may be of a premium. To heat individual rooms, underfloor heating and aluminium radiators are great modern heat emitter choices and can support the overall design and architecture of the space whilst also creating comfort.

The Grant Uflex underfloor heating system works effectively with an air to water air source heat pump, helping to save energy and money as both systems work at low temperatures so together use less energy. Aluminium radiators, such as the Grant Afinia range are highly efficient and compatible with high and low temperature systems. With excellent conductivity and vertical and horizontal combinations the Afinia range also delivers flexibility with installations.

Grant Integrated Heating Package

Those working on new build projects can now avail of a full, individually tailored heating solution through Grantʼs Integrated Heating Packages for New Builds. Grantʼs heating packages are helping those in the trade save time and hassle in specifying and installing the heating system as Grantʼs team of technical specialists will size and specify the full heating package as part of the companyʼs free of charge heating design service.

Compiled of a main heat source, hot water storage and heat emitters, a typical Grant Integrated Heating Package may include: • • • • •

Grant Aerona3 R32 air to water air source heat pump Grant Integrated Unit or Grant Pre-plumbed cylinder Grant Afinia aluminium radiators Grant Uflex underfloor heating Grant Uflex 230V Heatmiser Neo Stats

Grant continues to operate at the forefront of the heating industry, consistently providing those who are working on new build projects with comfortable, sustainable and cost-effective heating solutions.

Think Heating. Think Grant. Visit www.grant.eu for more information on Grantʼs range of innovative heating solutions and to read more about Grantʼs heating design service. You can also follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL

Significant carbon reduction objectives have been incorporated into the Climate Action Bill Significant carbon reduction objectives have been incorporated into the Climate Action Bill which has been recently enacted into legislation. This will demand a significant re-think of our approach to construction. We will be required to actively seek new low carbon solutions, technologies and materials in order to meet legislatively set reduction targets in the built environment sector. Founded in 2003, Ecocem is an Irish owned company and Europeʼs largest independent producer of Ground Granulated Blastfurnace Slag (GGBS). GGBS is a recycled by-product of the steel industry that contributes to the circular economy by replacing up to 70% of the cement required in concrete. With production facilities in Ireland, France, and Holland, and import terminals in Sweden and the UK, Ecocem has been leading the way with regards to the adoption of cement replacements and the production of low carbon cements. This includes ready mix concrete, traditional blocks, precast concrete, mortars, and soil stabilisation. Ecocem GGBS carries its own Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), an independently verified and registered document that communicates comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products. With a CO2 value of 32kgs per tonne compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) at 802kgs per tonne, Ecocem GGBS has been shown to significantly reduce the embodied carbon of concrete while delivering numerous technical benefits. GGBS increases strength, durability, and the chemical resistance of concrete, to name but a few and can be utilised across all traditional cement applications. “When Ecocem GGBS is used at high cement replacement rates, the savings are notable (up to 67% in some applications) and as cement accounts for around 90% of the embodied carbon of concrete, it is clear why many specifiers have already switched and are demanding the change”, adds Susan McGarry, Managing Director of Ecocem Ireland. The introduction of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will provide transparency enabling a clear assessment of all products and materials used in construction. The LCA is the calculation of the total amount of carbon created in the construction of a building based on the carbon sum of the individual components and will be an integral part of planning applications when considering new buildings. We have now entered a new world of low carbon building and living, and the changes required are urgent and immediate and are part of Irelandʼs commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050. Through the Climate Action plan and county development plans, the embodied carbon of materials will need to be addressed and Ecocem has a major role to play in achieving carbon reduction in the built environment. The Ecocem Ireland technical team are available to discuss improving your mix designs and overall carbon reduction through the specification of Ecocem GGBS on your next project. Talk to our technical team today about specifying Ecocem GGBS, For more information, please contact Don Davern, 086 2509015, email ddavern@ecocem.ie or visit the Ecocem website www.ecocem.ie.

Spotlight on The Midlands The four local authorities of the Midlands, Longford, Westmeath, Offaly & Laois, working in partnership with state agencies and industry, under the auspices of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Development Office this month published two sectoral plans; the MidlandsIreland.ie Regional Food & Drink Strategy 2021-2024 and the Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Action Plan 2021-2024, as outcomes of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan to 2020. In welcoming the launch of the plans, Ms Anna Marie Delaney, Chief Executive of Offaly County Council and Designated Regional CE of the Midlands Local Authorities stated : “I want to commend both working groups in developing these sectoral plans, both are key employers in the Midlands Region, the implementation of these plans in partnership with regional stakeholders will enable our region to capitalise on its identified strengths in both these sectors.”

The MidlandsIreland.ie Regional Food & Drink Strategy focuses on strengthening the food & drink sector in the region through four strategic pillars: Sustainability; Awareness; Export Capability & Food Tourism: In welcoming the publication of the Strategy, Minister for Trade Promotion & the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, Robert Troy TD, said, “This strategy recognises and seeks to reinforce the unique potential of the Midlands food and drink offering– one of excellence, visibility, and pride. It is about making the Midlands the most sustainable regional food and drink ecosystem in the country.” The strategy was developed with the support of the Local Enterprise Offices in Laois, Longford, Offaly & Westmeath and the Local Authorities of Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath. View the full strategy on www.midlandsireland.ie

Pictured at Cloughan Farm & Cookery School, Abbeyshrule, County Longford at the launch of the MidlandsIreland.ie Regional Food & Drink Strategy 2021-2024 L-R Orla Martin, Head of Enterprise, LEO Offaly, Sarah McCarthy, IHH – Failte Ireland, Anna Marie Delaney, CE Offaly CoCo & Designated Regional CE for the Midland Region, Minister Robert Troy and Sarah Morgan, Midlands Regional Enterprise Development Office Photo: Shelley Corcoran

In launching the Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Action Plan, Minister for Trade Promotion & the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, Robert Troy TD, said “Iʼm delighted to launch the Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Action Plan to 2024, which is about making the Midlands an internationally recognised centre of excellence for Advanced Manufacturing and an ideal location for manufacturing companies to grow their business and exports.” The Action Plan sets out a range of distinctive actions centered on Education and Skills, Research and Innovation and Infrastructure and Networks which will support the development of an advanced and sustainable Midlands manufacturing centre of excellence. Read the full Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Action Plan on www.midlandsireland.ie Sarah Morgan, Programme Manager, Midlands Regional Enterprise Development Office, wishes to extend her “appreciation to members of the working groups, and to all businesses and enterprises that engaged with the consultation process to inform the actions contained in these plans”.

Pictured at the launch of the Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Action Plan 2021-2024 at IMR L-R -: Graeme Lowe, Enterprise Ireland, Dr Anne Cusack, Chair of Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee, Minister Robert Troy, Anna Marie Delaney, CE, Offaly CoCo & Designated Regional CE for the Midland Region; Sarah Morgan, Regional Enterprise Development Office Photo: John McCauley

L-R - Christine Charlton, Head of LEO Westmeath, Dr Anne Cusack, Chair of Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Steering Committee, Caitriona Mordan, atim cluster; Minister Troy; Dermot OʼNeill, Cobotics Skillnets; Michael Cryan, Abbott Diagnostics & Industry Chair of Midlands Advanced Manufacturing Working Group, Andrew Lynch, IMR; John Costello, Midlands Regional Skills Forum, Sarah Morgan, Regional Enterprise Development Office; Ken Whitelaw, IDA Midlands Photo: John McCauley

Decarbonisation and Social Housing Climate change and decarbonisation are often described as the biggest challenges faced by our planet, with changes required in many aspects of daily life to reduce carbon emissions and waste. Large changes to the way we provide domestic heating and hot water will be needed to achieve the ambitious government targets. For social housing providers, the decarbonisation of housing stock is a balancing act between reducing carbon emissions, managing tenant acceptance, and customer service, as well as being aware of challenges such as fuel poverty. Many local authorities have ambitious climate change targets for their local area and social housing needs to help in the drive to reduce carbon emissions and hit these targets Choosing the Right Heating Partner What is certain is that there are no one-size-fits-all heating solutions for existing dwellings. Embracing a range of technologies depending on the property will be the key to success. Itʼs also important to choose the right partner to help you navigate the decarbonisation of social housing. At Ideal Heating we are experts in domestic heating and hot water solutions, we offer wraparound support, from technology choices, design, specification and sizing right through to aftercare in the form of customer support, training, and technical support both on the ground and over the phone. Ideal Heating provides both energy efficient, low carbon heating options alongside tenant comfort and satisfaction. Ideal Heating products have been present in the Irish market for over 40 years, we are proud to manufacture products specific to the Irish market that meet the demands of our customers. We are passionate about service and product reliability and go to great lengths to support our partners.

If we can help with any current or future projects, please feel free to get in touch.

Donal Mannion 087 442 3359 donal.mannion@groupe-atlantic.co.uk Terry Warner 087 3548661 terry.warner@groupe-atlantic.co.uk

Cork County Council Announce Public Realm Enhancement Plan for Cobh An exciting new urban design to enhance the public realm of Cobhʼs town centre has been drawn up by Cork County Council, with a people-centred approach that promises to make Cobh a more attractive town in which to live, work and visit.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley commented, “This transformational plan aims to create a people friendly town centre, enhancing the cultural heritage of this historic town, while encouraging active and healthy lifestyles. Itʼs a holistic plan that places Cobhʼs local economy at its core. It will improve safety and the natural environment with an urban greening strategy using integrated sustainable urban drainage and planting to enhance biodiversity. More accessible routes and improved wayfinding throughout the town will make for a more inclusive space for both the local community and visitors. Itʼs a very exciting project for Cobh.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added, “With the Cobh Public Realm Plan, Cork County Council aims to revitalise the historic town core through high quality placemaking, improved pedestrian connectivity, offering the local community and visitors a place to gather, socialise and host events in the town. Hand in hand with Project ACT this public realm enhancement plan will help revitalise Cobh and will be a massive boost to economic regeneration in the area and will benefit the cultural and socio-economic development of Cobh.”

The plan comprises a wide range of public realm enhancements including: • • • • • • • •

Tree-lined traffic tables facilitating safe crossing for pedestrians Greening of car parking and more accessible footpaths in the heart of Cobh Redesign of the town plaza with outdoor dining Lighting masterplan to enhance the townscape, save energy, respect natural habitat and promote a safe and thriving night economy Soft landscaping, rain gardens, urban trees and an innovative street furniture strategy Reconfiguration of the town park, its connection with the Irish Navy and reconnection with the heritage promenade A new Top of the Hill streetscape which will attract footfall and maximise safe walking routes to schools and drop off areas A new sense of neighbourhood throughout the higher town core for residents including new accessible terraces to frame the view of Cobhʼs most iconic buildings.

Brian OʼFlynn, Head of Irelandʼs Ancient East, noted that “Cobh is a key tourism destination within Irelandʼs Ancient East and Fáilte Ireland has supported Cork County Council in their application under the Urban Regeneration Development Fund to further enhance the visitor experience of the town. The improvements to the public realm proposed in this plan will not only help to attract more visitors to Cobh, but also will encourage them to stay for longer and explore all that the area has to offer.” Johanna Murphy, President of Cobh and Harbour Chamber, commented “The Chamber is delighted to be involved in this exciting and ambitious project. This public realm enhancement will benefit both businesses and the community for generations to come. This urban regeneration strategy, attracting people to live in the town centre, will help with the issue of vacancy and dereliction. Cobh and Harbour Chamber have been working closely with Cork County Council and we thank them for their efforts and support.”

Ireland will not meet its 2020 Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction targets. Action is needed now to meet 2030 EU targets • • •

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Ireland will not meet 2013-2020 EU targets for greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Ireland can meet our current EU commitments over the 2021 to 2030 period, if all current plans and policies are fully implemented. Projections indicate that under the best case scenario, with all the measures set out in the 2019 Climate Action Plan fully implemented, Irelands 2030 emissions will be 24 per cent lower than 2018 levels. In order to achieve a 51 per cent emissions reduction by 2030 significant new measures will need to be identified and implemented across all sectors.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published its Greenhouse Gas emissions projections for the period 2020-2040. They show Ireland is projected to have exceeded its 2013-2020 EU Effort Sharing Decision target by 12.2 Mt CO2 eq, but that it can meet its current EU 2021-2030 target with full implementation of the measures in the 2019 Climate Action Plan. This would result in a 2% per annum emissions reduction pathway from 2021 to 2030. Commenting on the figures Laura Burke, Director General, EPA said: “These projections show that the next decade needs to be one of major developments and advances in relation to Irelandʼs response to climate change. Full implementation of all current policies and plans by all sectors would reduce Irelands greenhouse gas emissions by 2 per cent per year, which is the minimum needed to meet our current 2030 EU targets.” Ms Burke added: “However, for Ireland to meet the more ambitious targets as presented in the European Climate Law and Ireland's Climate Bill, and to transform to a climate resilient, biodiversity rich and climate neutral economy by 2050, there needs to be a significant and immediate increase in the scale and pace of greenhouse gas emission reductions. A ʻgreen recoveryʼ will give Ireland an opportunity to rebuild our economy and generate new jobs while responding to this challenge.” The projections show the impact of Covid-19 lockdown on emissions for 2020 and 2021 as a result of a dramatic decline in economic activity and travel in the short term. To avoid a surge in emissions as the economy recovers, as a minimum the full range of actions already committed to must be implemented without delay. These measures are projected to contribute to emissions savings of 58 Mt CO2 eq. by 2030 when compared to existing measures. These include: Agriculture A reduction of at least 16.5 Mt CO2 eq. between 2021 and 2030 is achievable by accelerated uptake of measures such as low emissions slurry spreading techniques and switching to stabilised urea fertilisers for crops and pasture. Transport Almost 1 million electric vehicles on our roads by 2030, including 840,000 passenger EVs and 95,000 electric vans and trucks, will help achieve a projected additional emission saving from the sector of 13.2 Mt CO2 eq over the period 2021 to 2030. Energy Renewable energy providing 70% of electricity generated is projected to lead to a 25% reduction in Energy Industries emissions by 2030 requiring both on- and off-shore wind energy projects. Home Heating The installation of 600,000 heat pumps and the retrofitting of 500,000 homes for improved energy efficiency by 2030 is projected to reduce the energy used for space and water heating in our homes by 44% by 2030. This will make our homes healthier and more comfortable places to live.

Commenting, Stephen Treacy, Senior Manager, EPA said: “Ireland needs to improve on its past record of performance in the implementation of climate policies and measures. As far back as 2015 EPA projections indicated that 2020 EU targets could be met with the implementation of identified measures. Faster than anticipated emissions growth from key sectors and slow implementation of measures resulted in the target being missed by a wide margin.” See full detail on the Greenhouse Gas Emission Projections 2020 to 2040 on the EPA website and EPA Greenhouse Gas web resource. EU greenhouse gas emission targets and reduction obligations for Ireland are split into two broad categories. The first category covers the large energy and power (i.e. energy intensive) industry which are controlled under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. The second category deals with the non-Emissions Trading Scheme sectors such as agriculture, transport, residential, commercial, waste and non-energy intensive industry. The Environmental Protection Agency produces greenhouse gas emissions projections on an annual basis for all sectors of the economy in collaboration with relevant State and other bodies. The following are key underlying data that underpin this yearʼs greenhouse gas emissions projections: • Energy-related emissions projections are based on updated energy projections provided to the Environmental Protection Agency by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland in Q1 2021. • The energy projections were prepared in conjunction with the Economic and Social Research Institute who produced energy demand projections using the I3E model (Ireland Environment, Energy and Economy model) • Agriculture emissions projections are based on data from Teagasc which were provided to the Environmental Protection Agency in March 2021. Projections are based on an analysis undertaken by Teagasc of the projected national herd population, crop areas and fertiliser use which considers the impact of Food Wise 2025 for the agriculture sector. The EUʼs Effort Sharing Decision (Decision No 406/2009/EC) sets targets for the non-Emissions Trading Scheme sector for EU Member States including Ireland for 2020. Irelandʼs 2020 target is to achieve a 20% reduction of non-Emissions Trading Scheme sector emissions on 2005 levels with annual binding limits set for each year over the period 2013-2020. On 14th May 2018, the European Council adopted a new regulation on greenhouse gas emission reductions. The regulation sets out binding emission reduction targets for member states in sectors falling outside the scope of the EU emissions trading system for the period 2021-2030. The Regulation (Effort Sharing Regulation) maintains existing flexibilities under the current Effort Sharing Decision (e.g. banking, borrowing and buying and selling between Member States) and provides two new flexibilities to allow for a fair and costefficient achievement of the targets. Flexibilities under the Effort Sharing Regulation include the allowance by eligible Member States to achieve their national targets by covering some emissions with EU ETS allowances which would normally have been auctioned. EU-wide, this cannot be more than a combined (EU-wide) total of 100 million tonnes CO2 over the period 2021-2030. Also, to stimulate additional action in the land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) sector, Member States can use up to a combined (EU-wide) total of 280 million credits over the entire period 2021-2030 to comply with their national targets. All Member States are eligible to make use of this flexibility if needed to achieve their target, while access is higher for Member States with a larger share of emissions from agriculture. This recognises that there is a lower mitigation potential for emissions from the agriculture sector. The LULUCF flexibility allows for Ireland to account for greenhouse gas removals of up to 26.8Mt CO2eq over the compliance period. The ETS flexibility allows Ireland to transfer emissions of up to 4% of 2005 levels per annum from the non-ETS to ETS sector, reducing the mitigation requirement in the non-ETS sector while cancelling the corresponding ETS allowances.

Greenhouse gas emissions are projected to the year 2040 using two scenarios: • The With Existing Measures scenario assumes that no additional policies and measures, beyond those already in place by the end of 2019, are implemented. This is the cut off point for which the latest national greenhouse gas emission inventory data is available. • The With Additional Measures scenario assumes implementation of the With Existing Measures scenario in addition to implementation of planned government policies and measures adopted after the end of the 2019. Importantly, this includes Irelandʼs 2019 Climate Action Plan. This Plan, published in June 2019, sets out a major programme of policies and measures aimed to help Ireland achieve its decarbonisation goals. An overview of total projected emissions by sectors (which include ETS and non-ETS emissions) under the With Additional Measures is presented in Table 1 and Figure 1.

Table 1. Projected greenhouse gas emissions to 2030 under the With Additional Measures Scenario

Mt CO2 eq

2019

2020

2025

2030

Growth 2020-2030

Agriculture

21.15

21.37

20.43

18.95

-11.31%

Transport

12.20

10.49

11.46

9.09

-13.39%

Energy Industries 9.45

8.43

8.09

6.34

-24.76%

Residential

6.53

7.11

5.01

3.77

-47.05%

Manufacturing Combustion

4.59

4.19

4.49

4.27

2.06%

Industrial Processes

2.27

2.01

2.44

2.59

28.83%

Commercial /Public Services

1.78

1.76

1.64

1.20

-31.77%

F-Gases

0.92

0.88

0.87

0.77

-12.58%

Waste

0.90

0.89

0.81

0.77

-13.81%

Total

59.78

57.14

55.24

47.76

-16.42%

Figure 1. Projected sectoral share of total greenhouse gas emissions (including ETS and non ETS emissions) in 2030 in the With Additional Measures scenario

Units: 1 Mt = 1,000 kilotonnes CO2 Equivalent: greenhouse gases other than CO2 (i.e. methane, nitrous oxide and so-called F-gases) may be converted to CO2 equivalent using their global warming potentials. F-gases: These gases comprise HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons), PFCs (Perfluorocarbons), SF6 (Sulphur Hexafluoride) and NF3 (Nitrogen Trifluoride). They are much more potent than the naturally occurring greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide). Irelandʼs GHG Sectors: include the following nine sectors for analysis; 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Energy Industries (electricity generation, waste to energy incineration, oil refining, briquetting manufacture and fugitive emissions) Residential (combustion for domestic space and hot water heating) Manufacturing Combustion (combustion for Manufacturing industries) Commercial and Public Services (combustion for Commercial and Public Services space and hot water heating) Transport (combustion of fuel used in road, rail, navigation, domestic aviation and pipeline gas transport) Industrial Processes (process emissions from mineral, chemical, metal industries, non-energy products and solvents) F-Gases (gases used in refrigeration, air conditioning and semiconductor manufacture) Agriculture (emissions from fertiliser application, ruminant digestion, manure management, agricultural soils and fuel used in agriculture/forestry/fishing) Waste (emissions from solid waste disposal on land, solid waste treatment (composting), wastewater treatment, waste incineration and open burning of waste).

Quin to see big benefits as critical wastewater upgrade is completed Irish Water has completed a major upgrade of the Quin Wastewater Treatment Plant which will protect the local environment and support growth and development in the area. This project, carried out in partnership with Clare County Council, brings big benefits to the local community by ensuring that there is adequate treatment of wastewater, for now and into the future, as well as protecting public health and safeguarding the environment. The existing plant was overloaded and as a result was not compliant with EU Urban Wastewater Directives. This project has brought improvements to the treatment efficiency of the plant and it will also improve the quality of water discharged to the River Rine, a tributary of the Shannon. Irish Water has invested €4.2 million to carry out this upgrade, which will also increase the capacity of the plant. The existing wastewater treatment plant was originally constructed to cater for a population equivalent (PE) of 740. This upgrade has significantly increased the capacity of the plant, enabling it to serve a population equivalent (PE) of 1350. Project Spokesperson Esther White said: “We are very pleased to announce the successful completion of this project which brings many benefits to Quin from an environmental as well as a social and economic point of view. Not only will it help to safeguard local waterways and the wider environment, it will also accommodate housing and other developments in the Quin area. “The completion of this project on time and on budget reflects Irish Waterʼs commitment – and that of our delivery partners, Clare County Council and EPS – to the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure in order to support local communities. “We would like to thank the local residents and businesses for their support and co-operation as we carried out this work. The project involved the construction of a new pumping station at Quin on the same site as the existing Wastewater treatment plant; the installation of new settlement tanks and Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) tanks; new inlet works as well as site landscaping, lighting and security works. Irish Water is on track to deliver a programme of unprecedented scale to stop the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated wastewater into our seas and rivers. Since 2014, Irish Water has eliminated approximately 50% of untreated and inadequately treated wastewater that was being discharged to our rivers and the sea, with the completion of new wastewater treatment plants in 16 towns across the country. In Clare, new public sewerage schemes are currently planned for five locations where there is untreated wastewater being discharged; Liscannor, Kilrush, Kilkee, Ballyvaughan, and Clarecastle. Upgrades of wastewater treatment plants are also being progressed in Doonbeg and Ballycannon (Meelick).

Works progress on the Athenry Sewerage Scheme Network project Irish Water, working in partnership with Galway County Council, is progressing the Athenry Sewerage Scheme Network project to safeguard the environment and provide for future growth and development in the town. When completed, the project will reduce the risk of sewer flooding in Athenry and improve water quality in the River Clarin. It will also improve the capacity of the sewer network, allowing for current and future population growth and economic development.

Irish Water will issue a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the lands and wayleaves necessary to complete the works. The CPO, which is essential for the delivery of the project, will be published on 1 July. Once the CPO has been confirmed, a planning application for the scheme will be lodged with Galway County Council. Subject to the CPO and planning processes, it is expected that works will begin in the second half of 2022 and information events for businesses, residents and elected representatives will be held prior to the commencement of works. Speaking about this vital project, Eunan Canavan, Irish Water, said, “In 2019, close to €5.5m was invested as part of the upgrade to the existing wastewater treatment plant in Athenry. Irish Water is now continuing to progress this project to upgrade Athenryʼs wastewater infrastructure. The Athenry Sewerage Scheme Network project will safeguard the environment by reducing sewer overflows to the River Clarin. It will also ensure that the wastewater infrastructure meets the needs of homes and businesses in Athenry and surrounding areas whilst also providing capacity for future growth and development.”

For more information on this project, visit the Projects and Plans section of our website.

Essential works progress at Srowlands Water Treatment Plant Irish Water, working in partnership with Kildare County Council, is carrying out essential maintenance works at Srowlands Water Treatment Plant as part of the treated water storage system. The essential works involve the installation of new pipework at the treatment plant. These works are being delivered in adherence with current HSE and government COVID-19 advice. In order to safely facilitate these works, a necessary plant shut down is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 14 July from 8.30am to 5pm. Irish Water in collaboration with Kildare County Council, have reconfigured the network to maintain normal supply to customers and treated drinking water reservoirs will be filled to their maximum in advance of the works starting. Irish Water does not envisage any water supply outages, however, we are appealing to customers in the following areas to conserve water as their drinking water supply is dependent on reservoir storage for the duration of the works: Kildare Town and surrounds; Carbury; Derrinturn; Naas; Athgarvan; Newbridge; Parts of Caragh; Kilmeague; Monasterevin; Calverstown; Nurney; Narraghmore; Ballitore; Prosperous and surrounding areas. While handwashing remains a priority, simple water conservation efforts can have a big impact on reducing demand on the supply. Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shaving can save up to 6 litres of water per minute. Taking a shower instead of a bath or using a watering can rather than a hose when gardening can also make a big difference in water use. There are lots more tips on how to conserve water in your home on the Water Conservation section of our website. Speaking about the works, John Oʼ Donoghue, Regional Operations Manager, Irish Water said, “While handwashing remains a priority, we are asking customers in these areas to be mindful of how they use water. Simple water conservation efforts can make a big difference in reducing pressure on the supply such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shaving, taking a shower instead of a bath, and using a watering can rather than a hose in the garden. We are also reminding people with responsibility for properties that are currently unoccupied to check for leaks and turn off water where it is not required.” Irish Water continues to work at this time with our Local Authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of both staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of critical drinking water and wastewater services. Irish Water would like to remind people to follow the HSE COVID-19 advice and ensure frequent handwashing.

Phased works progressing at Drogheda Wastewater Treatment Plant IIrish Water is continuing to carry out works at Drogheda wastewater treatment plant and is committed to resolving any potential odour issues arising from the wastewater plant or network. Irish Water is aware of complaints of odour in the vicinity of the plant which can arise for a variety of reasons, such as rainfall, which impacts the dilution effect in a combined sewer network; temperature, which can naturally give rise to odour issues; the extent of industrial loading and illegal dumping of waste into the sewer network and increased agricultural activity in the area. Works to reduce the risk of odours that have already been completed at Drogheda wastewater treatment plant include; works to the odour control units; works to three primary settlement tanks and two aeration tanks and the installation of additional treatment at the East Meath pumping station that conveys wastewater to the plant to reduce the potential for septicity of the wastewater. Furthermore, a programme of network jetting is being delivered on an ongoing basis to clear general blockages in the pipe network that could give rise to odours. In addition, Irish Water is progressing with plans to replace key pieces of infrastructure at the site, such as the anaerobic digesters, on a phased basis over the next two years. The first phase of the works is scheduled to start later this year and along, with a suite of measures being implemented at the plant and on the network, will help to minimise potential odour sources. Speaking about the ongoing and planned works at the plant, Redmond Burke, Irish Water said, “Irish Water is committed to resolving any potential odour issues at the plant and in the network and we are continuing to work closely with EPS Limited who operate the plant on our behalf and Louth County Council who manage the network on our behalf. The replacement of the anaerobic digester at the site represents a significant investment in the continued upgrade of the plant. We will keep the community informed of updates regarding Drogheda wastewater treatment plant and network through engagement with local media, regular Councillor Clinics and directly with customers who contact our contact centre.” Irish Water continues to work at this time, with our local authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of drinking water and wastewater services. Customers should continue to report any issues directly to our call centre which operates 24/7 on 1800 278 278 or by email to operations@water.ie. Real time reporting allows for the investigation of the reported odour as close to the time of the incident as possible.

Works begin on new Wastewater Treatment Plant in Arthurstown A palpable air of optimism emanated around the small and socially distant gathering who were present for this morningʼs official sod turning at Arthurstown, county Wexford as Irish Water, in partnership with Wexford County Council began works on the new Wastewater Treatment Plant that will serve the communities of Duncannon, Arthurstown and Ballyhack.

The investment of €12.8m will see the plant provide wastewater treatment for the first time for the equivalent of almost 1875 people. The works will ensure the communities have the capacity for social and economic development into the future and will also ensure the protection and the integrity of the environment. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Barbara Anne Murphy was on hand today to offiate at the sod turning; “ʻThe commencement of this vital sewerage infrastructure development will lead to enhanced tourism opportunities for the beautiful villages of Arthurstown, Ballyhack and Duncannon. In Wexford we pride ourselves on our expansive well maintained beaches and coastline with all of the amenities they offer. The removal of untreated wastewater to this estuary has long been a goal of Wexford County Council, and we can now look forward to all the benefits of a cleaner environment, previously denied due to the lack of treatment in the area. These works will also hasten the return of our Blue Flag Beach status to Duncannon. I very much welcome the investment from Irish Water in conjunction with Wexford County Council.ʼ Paul Fallon, who is Programme Manager with Irish Water was delighted to be present; “This is big day for the communities of Duncannon, Arthurstown and Ballyhack and we are so pleased to finally get the project underway. This is such a beautiful part of the country and to think that this Irish Water project will eliminate the equivalent of 1,500 wheelie bins of raw sewage flowing into the Barrow, Nore, Suir estuary every day is something to be positive about.

“The size and scale of the challenge of raw sewage discharging into our water ways is well documented, however, the good news is that Irish Water has a plan to get to grips with this and similar areas around Ireland. This project is due for completion in 2023 and will support social and economic development and protect our marine life in the years to come too. I'd finally like to pay tribute to our colleagues in Wexford County Council, Sisk, Aecom and Atkins who have done a fantastic job to date and I look forward to bringing this project to completion with them". Minister of State James Browne made his way from his home constituency of Enniscorthy to help mark the occasion too. “Itʼs great to see this project get underway. It has been a long time in the making, and it will open up so many new opportunities for the communities of Arthurstown, Duncannon and Ballyhack. I wish Irish Water, Wexford County Council and Sisk the best of luck with the works.” Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Tom Enright, also warmly welcomed the commencement of construction of the much needed Wastewater Treatment Plant, stating that ʻthe works when completed in approximately 16 monthsʼ time will bring great benefits to the villages and surrounding areas in terms of environmental improvements, water quality, infrastructural development, tourism and investment.ʼ The Chief Executive also thanked Irish water and the Staff of Wexford County Council for bringing the project to this juncture and wished contractors Sisk Group well in their endeavours. Although numbers were limited at the event due to COVID-19 restrictions, the communities were well represented by their elected representatives, business leaders and other members of the community. Well known Chef and author Kevin Dundon was in Arthurstown this morning to see the works kick off, he is passionate about his locality and the environment; “For all of us living and working in a coastal community, this is a fabulous environmental step forward. Cleaner beaches and water for residents and visitors alike means better living. Hopefully, the blue flags will return soon as a result of this wastewater treatment development.” Lorraine Waters from Hook Lighthouse was also on hand to witness the Sod Turning; “Hook lighthouse too is delighted to hear its partnering villages Duncannon, Arthurstown and Ballyhack will soon have a new wastewater treatment plant, as all our areas are striving to go green and become more ecofriendly this is indeed good news, especially in a time where we are now hoping to, in the coming years increase our visitor capacity to our beautiful county.” Chairman of New Ross Municipal District, Patrick Barden was also in attendance this morning; “ʻProtecting our environment has never been more important than it is today. With this new treatment system for the villages of Arthurstown Ballyhack and Duncannon, we are taking a major step in the right direction with regard to improving our environment here in this lovely area. Over the years these villages have been restricted in their ability to expand and diversify due to the lack of adequate sewage treatment. This problem is now being resolved and we can look forward to realising the full potential of these vibrant communities. I would like to acknowledge the role of Irish Water and Wexford County Council in the delivery of this ambitious project. I also look forward to the day when the neighbouring village of Ramsgrange will also be connected.” Since 2014, Irish Water has built new wastewater infrastructure for 16 towns and villages across the country, ending the discharge of raw sewage into our rivers, lakes and seas; the equivalent of 100,000 peopleʼs worth, every day. Across the bay in Dunmore East and all along the Waterford coastline, the practice of discharging raw sewage into the waterways has been eliminated since 2017. The investment of €24 million there delivered seven new wastewater treatment plants in towns and villages across Co. Waterford including Ardmore, Ballyduff/Kilmeadan, Cappoquin, Dunmore East, Kilmacthomas, Stradbally and Tallow. Half of the raw sewage entering waterways in Ireland has now been eliminated and there is a plan to remove the remainder in the years to come.

Works progress to upgrade the sewer network in Bray Irish Water is working in partnership with Wicklow County Council to improve the sewer network in Bray, Co Wicklow. The delivery of this wastewater project will support future growth and development in the area. Works to construct almost 0.4km of new and replacement sewer will begin in early 2022 and is expected to be completed in late 2022. Similar wastewater improvement works have already been completed on Old Connaught Road, Dublin Road and new School Road. Consultations have been on-going with landowners, however, Irish Water was unable to acquire all of the required wayleaves and lands on a voluntary basis and has submitted an application for a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to An Bord Pleanála. The CPO, which is essential for the delivery of this project and pursuant to the provisions of the Water Services Act, 2007 (as amended), is needed to allow Irish Water to formally obtain the necessary lands and wayleaves required for this project. The public notice for the CPO will also be published in the local newspaper. The timeline for the commencement of works is subject to the CPO statutory approvals, however, it is expected that the construction will start in 2022 and information events for businesses, residents and elected representatives will be held prior to the commencement of works. Commenting on the project, Padraig Hanley, Irish Water said, “A sewer network that is fit for purpose is essential in order to support business and social development in the community. These works will support existing and future residential and commercial development while also improving the overall performance of the sewer network.” Irish Water will provide further updates as the project progresses. Irish Water continues to work at this time, with our local authority partners, contractors and others to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and the public and to ensure the continuity of drinking water and wastewater services. Irish Waterʼs customer care helpline is open 24/7 and customers can call us on 1800 278 278. Customers can also contact us on Twitter @IWCare with any queries.

Government agrees significant expansion of the National Cyber Security Centre •

20 additional posts created in response to cyber security threats

The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD and Minister of State with special responsibility for Communications and the Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth, TD are pleased to announce that the Government has agreed to an expansion of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) from 25 to 45 staff over the next 18 months, and to 70 within 5 years. The associated budgetary increase for the NCSC for 2022 is estimated at €2.5 million.

A significant package of other measures to further strengthen the capacity of the NCSC to respond to the growing threat from cyber criminals was agreed by Government today, including the development of legislation to establish the NCSC on a statutory basis with a set of formal powers and a legal mandate. The overall package of measures approved includes: • •

That the role of Director of the NCSC be re-advertised at a salary of €184,000 (Deputy Secretary scale) to reflect the scale and importance of the role and to attract experienced candidates The Director will have responsibility for building and leading the NCSC, further developing the operational capacity and expertise of the NCSC and supporting the development of the policy and legislative framework relating to cyber security in the State

•

A single HQ for the NCSC which will provide the required security infrastructure and capacity. The NCSC will be accommodated within the Departmentʼs new Headquarters (HQ) in Beggars Bush

•

Developing a 5 year technology strategy for the NCSC that scopes its internal requirements, and its relationship with academia and industry

•

In addition to the recruitment of 20 additional fulltime roles, a cyber security graduate training programme will be initiated by the NCSC in 2021, with four computer science graduates recruited each year on contracts of three years duration.

Minister Ryan said: "This investment marks a step change in the evolution of the National Cyber Security Centre. The expansion we are announcing today will enable the organisation further develop its competence and capacity to help defend and protect IT systems and our key services into the future. "As Ireland is a leading digital economy, protecting the cyber security of Government IT and critical national infrastructure is vital. The NCSC has an important role in gathering intelligence on cyber threats and in sharing that information and providing expert guidance. The Government is committed to ensuring that the NCSC has the appropriate level of resourcing to enable it deliver on its important mandate." Minister Smyth commented: "The positive action by Government is being taken against the backdrop of a steady increase in the number of significant cyber incidents in the past number of years, including the recent incidents affecting the HSE and other healthcare providers internationally, as well as Colonial Pipeline in the US, and more recently, Kaseya. "This trend is reflected across the globe, with many Governments and supranational organisations, such as the EU and UN, recognising that the threat of malicious cyber incidents can have potentially devastating security, economic, social, and humanitarian consequences. While individual organisations and citizens need to take appropriate steps to protect themselves in an online world, todayʼs decision will ensure that NCSC has the appropriate mandate and resources to continue to support them." The government decision today follows recommendations made by Minister Ryan on receipt of a Capacity Review of the NCSC by an independent third party, which was already underway before the recent HSE cyber attack. The capacity review was one of the measures in the National Cyber Security Strategy published in late 2019 which set out a broad range of measures to be taken to improve the security of public and private IT systems in the State.

Minister Ryan announces package of supports to expand community energy revolution Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, has today launched a range of new of measures to ensure communities nationwide will benefit from renewable energy. The package includes: • Targeted supports for communities who want to develop their own renewable projects. • Good Practice Principles that will ensure communities benefit from funds generated by other renewable energy projects in their locality. • A new Steering Board to guide the development of the community energy sector. The Programme for Government commits to a ʻrenewables revolutionʼ and reaffirms the challenging national ambition of at least 70% renewable electricity by 2030. To meet this target, the Programme notes that communities will play their part and, more broadly, Government will provide support to renewable electricity projects through the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). According to Minister Ryan: "We have seen in other countries, like Germany, that direct citizen and community involvement in the green energy revolution both benefits communities and builds support for the radical transformation we need to make to reach our climate goals. Weʼve already seen seven community projects, (five solar and two wind projects) succeed in our first Renewable Energy Support Scheme auction. I want to build on this by providing communities with the expertise they need to develop more of these projects. "A new Community Enabling Framework will assist and support communities through the complex process of electricity generation. Developed by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), it will provide a range of technical and financial supports at the various stages in the life-cycle of a renewable project including trusted advisors who will work closely with communities. The framework will de-risk the project development process for communities and will drive delivery on our ambitious community energy targets." Community projects are supported in a separate category within the RESS Scheme. However, all projects, including the 61 commercial projects, are required to set up a Community Benefit Fund. The Fund ensures that, in all cases, some of the benefits of renewable energy generation are shared with those who live locally, usually in rural communities. The first wave of projects in the scheme will see almost €4 million in Community Benefit Funds being spent in local communities each year. With more auctions to come, it is critical that we put in place a robust and progressive governance system. A Good Practice Handbook for RESS Community Benefit Funds sets out how the funds can be best employed, for instance in supporting local climate action and biodiversity initiatives. In addition, the SEAI is launching a National Register of these funds which will ensure appropriate reporting and transparency across the years ahead. The commitments in this scheme will help develop sustainable community energy projects across the country, and will support rural regeneration, social cohesion, capacity-building and community development. Speaking just before the first meeting of the new RESS Communities Steering Board, the Minister said: "Communities developing their own electricity generation projects is a new and exciting sector in our energy system. I want to ensure communities have a say in directing how this sector evolves. I have established a Steering Board, which includes several community representatives and advocates, as well as academic experts, to advise me on policy and implementation." Minister Ryan added: "All in all, I believe this package of supports will inspire communities to generate their own electricity and will ensure dispersal of benefits from all renewable projects within the scheme. This package will also support the achievement of the increased ambition set out under the Climate Action Bill and the policies and measures in the Climate Action Plan 2021. Supporting communities in this way is good for the renewable sector, the green economy and rural Ireland."

Government approves proposals for termination and replacement of Strategic Housing Development planning arrangements The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh OʼBrien TD, has received Government approval for the termination and replacement of Strategic Housing Development (SHDs) planning arrangements. New streamlined arrangements for large-scale residential developments (LSRDs) which restore decision-making to local authorities will be introduced to replace SHDs. It is intended that the new arrangements will come into effect on enactment of the Bill in the autumn. Subject to Oireachtas approval and the timely enactment of the Bill, it is anticipated that the following dates will apply to the wind up of the SHD arrangements and the introduction of the new arrangements for LSRDs: • 29 October 2021 will be the last day for requesting a SHD pre-application consultation request with An Bord Pleanála • A planning application for a SHD must be submitted to An Bord Pleanála by 31 December 2021, at the latest, for proposals which have completed the SHD pre-application consultation process with An Bord Pleanála on or before 29 October 2021 • 25 February 2022 is the last date for submitting a subsequent SHD planning application to the Board in respect of those SHD proposals which complete the SHD pre-application consultation process after 29 October 2021 The intended end dates are being signaled now to provide certainty and clarity around the replacement of the SHD arrangements, and to allow developers and the associated professional sectors time to prepare and adapt to the proposed new arrangements. Minister OʼBrien welcomed Governmentʼs decision saying that it provided for planning applications for large scale residential developments to be dealt with in the first instance at the local level by local planning authorities. Commenting he said: “These are very significant changes, restoring the primary decision-making function to local authorities, while also introducing mandatory timelines to ensure an efficient process for large scale residential developments. “The new two stage planning process being provided for these types of planning applications will involve an initial application to the relevant local authority with the possibility of subsequent appeal to An Bord Pleanála. “This will allow for enhanced public participation on these local developments. Given the restoration of the appeal mechanism for such proposed developments to the Board, the new arrangements should also reduce the number of judicial review challenges being taken against such proposed developments going forward, as is happening under the current SHD arrangements. “We need to rapidly increase the supply of homes to get to a place where 33,000 homes are being built each year to meet demand. I am confident that these new arrangements will ensure a speedy determination of large scale housing development proposals in the planning system and ultimately get new developments off the ground. “I look forward to engaging with the Oireachtas on these proposals and progressing the Bill in the Oireachtas in the autumn.”

Minister OʼBrien welcomes the passing of the Affordable Housing Bill 2021 The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh OʼBrien TD has welcomed the passing of the Affordable Housing Bill 2021 in Dáil Éireann. The Bill, which is the most comprehensive standalone affordable housing legislation in the history of the State, passed Dáil Éireann with overwhelming support and will revert back to the Seanad before enactment. Commenting Minister OʼBrien said, “Over the past year Government has put affordability and the chance to own a home at the very heart of our housing policy. We have worked especially hard to ensure that those hard pressed renters, the first-time buyers and the individuals living with their parents while trying to save every spare cent, will have a chance to own their own home or rent securely. “Cost Rental, a new form of housing tenure in Ireland and a key commitment in the Programme for Government, will now for the first time ever, be put on a legislative footing in Ireland. Cost Rental marks a step change in the rental market. Itʼs a model where the tenant pays the cost of delivering, managing, and maintaining the homes only. It will prove long term and secure tenure. Just yesterday we launched the first Cost Rental homes under our new scheme whereby tenants will pay monthly rents which are up to 50% lower than local market rates. There is a strong delivery pipeline of Cost Rental homes which will be developed by Approved Housing Bodies, the Land Development Agency and our local authorities. “Under the Affordable Housing Bill, Local Authorities will also now be empowered to build, acquire and make available, homes at prices which are below open market levels. This means that middle income earners will be supported to own their own home. The new ʻFirst Homeʼ shared equity scheme also provided for under this Bill will help to bridge the gap between the market value of a home in the private market and what an individual or couple can afford. “Our Bill also provides for an important increase in Part V provision which amends the current 10% minimum requirement for social homes and increases this to 20% for social and affordable homes. “I would like to thank all Oireachtas colleagues who have engaged with this Bill and for supporting it through the Dáil. I look forward to its enactment as quickly as possible and to the early delivery of Affordable Purchase and Cost Rental homes which this legislation has provided for” concluded Minister OʼBrien.

Store St. Youghal drained with Monotec Recyfix Monotec drains Store Street project in Youghal. Cork County Council chose it for its lightweight, high capacity, and fast installation as well as being a monolithic drainage system. One of the biggest challenges of the project was to find the most suitable drainage solution that would solve the following issues: • • • • • • •

Strength, min D400 loading. Robustness, suitable for vans and trucks twisting/turning on it. Larger than usual drainage capacity. Heel-safe for pedestrians. Corrosion resistant because of its close proximity to the sea. Ready to take a high volume of car traffic and trucks doing deliveries. Aesthetically pleasing. The Recyfix Monotec channel was proposed & approved because it met all of the conditions above.

Light, sturdy, easy to install “We are extremely happy with the way in which the product has performed since installation on the road network” – says Michael Lucey, Engineer from Cork County Council. – The Monotec looks very smart in place, and it does a great job in keeping the area free of water lodging or stagnant water on the surface which is the ultimate goal for road drainage. Another major advantage for the construction company installing the channels was how easy they were to install as they are significantly lighter than channels made of mineral material. “From an installation point of view, the installers liked working with the product as it is lightweight therefore leading to fast installation and itʼs easy to transport around site” – ads Michael Lucey. – This makes them especially easy to transport and aides for a fast accurate installation. Example: Monotec 100 Type 230 weighs 8.21kg compared to a Polymer Concrete Channel at approx. 31.5kg.

Professional support Galco is a leading provider of surface water management systems to modern urban landscapes. We are also much more than just a drainage channel supplier. If you have a drainage related problem we will provide you with, complex drainage solutions, hydraulic calculations, supported with reliable, durable and functional products. “In terms of dealing with Michael Coady and Galco, I found they were very professional at all times and any advice offered during the project was practical and relevant” – says Michael Lucey from Cork County Council. “It was a pleasure to do business and I look forward to doing more in the future”.

Harte has designed, manufactured, supplied and refurbished lighting for a wide variety of public spaces over 4 decades. Since this family business was established in 1983, it has built a well-earned reputation for quality and service excellence. The only outdoor lighting company actually manufacturing in Ireland, Harte is run by Liz Harte and her son Jack. Most of the companyʼs outdoor lights are made with cast iron for strength and longevity. Although using traditional methods in the production of their lights, Harte also keeps in step with technology and the needs of the market. All of the Harte range of lights are now engineered to work with LED bulbs supporting the environmental strategies of municipal districts and City councils to reduce energy consumption. Harte won the regional award in the National Enterprise Awards 2019. Their lights can be found in many locations around Ireland, including in Áras an Uachtarán!

For information and assistance with any outdoor lighting requirements, call Jack Harte on 051 421239 or email jack@harteoutdoorlighting.ie

At Glasdon, we have over 60 yearsʼ experience in designing, manufacturing and supplying essential products which can improve spaces, enhance site safety and help to support waste management systems and recycling.

Assisting with implementing practices to help keep areas tidy and litter free, Glasdon have a large selection of indoor and outdoor waste and recycling containers, available in a selection of styles, sizes and colours to suit all requirements. An exciting addition is the new Nexus® Evolution City Recycling Bin. This external recycling bin is the perfect solution for the collection of up to four separate recycling streams in one large capacity container. With 3 models, 5 configurations and over 50 interchangeable apertures available, the Nexus Evolution City is set to become one of the most flexible external recycling bins on the market!

For more information, visit our website www.glasdon.com to view our full product range, or contact our sales team sales@glasdon.ie

Local Authority News - Vol. 40. No. 1

Articles inside

DEPARTMENT BRIEFS

IRISH WATER UPDATES

PRODUCT INFO

• IRELAND WILL NOT MEET ITS 2020 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGETS. ACTION IS NEEDED NOW TO MEET 2030 EU TARGETS (EPA

• CORK COUNTY COUNCIL ANNOUNCE PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENT PLAN FOR COBH

• TRANSFORMATIVE €10 MILLION LIMERICK GREENWAY OPENS TO PUBLIC

SPOTLIGHT ON THE MIDLANDS

• SIGNIFICANT CARBON REDUCTION OBJECTIVES HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE CLIMATE ACTION BILL (ECOCEM

DECARBONISATION AND SOCIAL HOUSING

GALWAY COUNTY COUNCIL THROUGH THEIR URDF FUNDING APPLICATION IN COLLABORATION WITH IARNRÓD ÉIREANN

• GRANT’S INNOVATIVE HEATING TECHNOLOGIES ARE REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS AND FUTURE PROOFING NEW BUILD PROPERTIES

• MAJOR BOOST FOR IRELAND AND TOURISM WITH €73MILLION INVESTMENT IN NEW WORLD CLASS VISITOR EXPERIENCE