Building Ireland Magazine, January 2023

Galvin Construction

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023.

Pat O'Brien Safety

One of Ireland's leading safety consultancy and training providers. Union Homes

This family-run business can make your dream home a reality.

Nevin Construction

A diverse and constantlyimproving general contracting company. CET Connect

A premier provider of structured cabling and data centre infrastructure services.

Platinum Tanks

Utilising renewable, sustainable resources to create exceptional products. Varming Consulting Engineers Recently honoured at the 2022 ACEI Awards.

Mark Gilleece Construction

Delivering high-quality, bespoke new build, extension and renovation projects.

Ethos Engineering

Robert Ralph is a senior project engineer within the Urbanism team.

Darra Bridge Housing

Recently finished a development of highly efficient houses in Ardee.

EML Construction

An industry-leading general contractor.

Powertech Refrigeration

One of Ireland’s premier industrial refrigeration specialists.

Murphy Building & Civil Contractors

A forward-thinking construction company with an unrivalled track record.

Farry Construction

Provides a full range of construction services across counties Fermanagh and Tyrone.

Mullen and Sons

Delivers a complete range of industry-leading construction solutions.

The electrical contractor of choice to a growing customer-base.

Kellman Developments

Consistently delivers a wide array of high-quality private and public construction projects.

AG PLEDGES TO REDUCE ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT BY 30%

Fivemiletown headquartered Paving and Building Products firm, AG, has reinforced its position as a market leader in sustainable construction through its latest pledge to reduce its carbon footprint by 30% by 2030 –despite a surge in production levels.

The firm, which has manufacturing locations in Fivemiletown, Dungannon, Toome and Carryduff, already has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry and is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations to an absolute minimum. The firm has signed Business in the Community’s Climate Action Pledge whereby companies commit to reducing their scope 1 and scope 2 emissions by at least 30% and to also begin reducing Scope 3. As part of the pledge, Business in the Community sets science-based targets and will chart AG’s decarbonisation journey. Last year, the business reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 10%, despite a 30% increase in production volumes as the company faced unprecedented demand for its products reinforcing its commitment to a greener future in construction.

To ensure AG achieves its ambitious target it plans to invest in its own renewable energy production where possible. As well as this, work has already begun on reducing the cement quantity in its products – without jeopardising the exceptional quality AG is renowned for.

The creation of a pioneering carbon calculator will also allow AG to calculate its overall carbon impact, as well as the carbon impact per product, driving the firm’s sustainability agenda through the introduction of more environmentally friendly products into

the business.

The specialist building products business previously switched to bioLPG from the industry-standard LPG resulting in a carbon saving of 70% – equal to a person driving around the world three times. The business has also introduced electric and hybrid cars into their fleet with a goal of having a full hybrid/electric fleet by 2025. This was led by CEO Stephen Acheson with support from the firm’s net zero carbon team which was set up with the aim of reducing the company’s carbon footprint, as part of an energy strategy developed with a commitment to producing low carbon products.

Rodney Davidson, Commercial Director at AG said: “For many years, we have worked tirelessly to reduce

our energy usage. The Climate Action pledge further demonstrates our commitment to making long lasting and impactful changes.”

CEO, Stephen Acheson added: “AG has a corporate social responsibility to be sustainable. Each of our sites bring our corporate environmental philosophy to life and our commitment to reducing the impact our sites have on our surrounding environment is evidenced by the rich biodiversity found around our sites – such as the peregrine falcons currently nesting in our Fivemiletown quarry.

“We are delighted to be making very positive steps in our journey of carbon reduction and look forward to working with Business in the Community as we work towards our 2030 target.”

CHADWICKS GROUP LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE TO DELIVER STATE OF THE ART ONLINE RETAIL EXPERIENCE

and DIY enthusiasts with a one-stopshop for everything they need to get the job done, Chadwicks.ie features over 10,000 products and materials along with real-time stock information and a choice between one hour clickand-collect or next day delivery for core lines across its 37 branches nationwide.

and frictionless purchasing experience across the Chadwicks Group estate.

“That’s why we are driving the adoption of digital throughout our organisation and putting significant investment in taking our business online and providing customers with an omnichannel experience.

Chadwicks Group has announced the launch of its new retail website Chadwicks.ie. Today’s announcement forms part of a €50m investment across the Group, which began in 2018 and includes the digital transformation of the business as well as an ongoing nationwide branch upgrade programme to deliver an unrivalled customer experience. Providing construction professionals

THE SHANNON AIRPORT GROUP TURN SOD ON NEW €6 MILLION R&D TECHNOLOGY FACILITY

The Shannon Airport Group has broken ground on its latest €6 million-euro commercial property development on the Shannon Campus.

The multi-million-euro investment will see the development of a 40,000 sq. ft. research and development technology facility suitabl e for manufacturing, industrial and R&D needs, for FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) or Irish enterprises. This development is the third major construction project to be undertaken this year by the Shannon Airport Group and is expected to generate up to 70 jobs during the construction phase.

Since the beginning of 2022, the Shannon Airport Group has already committed a total of €18 million in developing property solutions.

The new building will be located at the main entrance to the Shannon Free Zone, on the Shannon Campus, with direct access to the motorway feeding Limerick, Galway, and Dublin. It will include two floors of office space, a high bay production and manufacturing area, and 56 onsite dedicated parking spaces.

The Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine said: “We are committed to supplying quality property solutions that attract indigenous and FDI

Designed with its customers in mind, Chadwicks.ie will appeal to busy tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts, offering flexibility, convenience and the option to check stock while on a jobultimately helping them save time. A recent survey of tradespeople by Chadwicks found that time pressure is a key pinch point for the trade with 87% wanting time saving solutions and products.

Commenting on the launch of the website, CEO of Chadwicks Group, Patrick Atkinson, said: “The launch of our website marks a significant day in our organisation and the wider construction sector. Traditionally, the construction industry has been slower than other sectors to embrace digital, but at Chadwicks Group we want to provide our customers with a complete

investment to the region. This development will provide a ready to go solution for new companies looking to set up or relocate to the Shannon Campus and fast track the delivery of advanced space for prospective new R&D Technology and Med Tech companies.

“This latest investment follows our recent development of an €8 million multi-use industrial facility on the Shannon Campus and our €4.2 million works at bays 135 and 137, earlier this year. While, at Shannon Airport, our bumper winter schedule for 2022 has kicked in, which sees us increase our pre-covid winter destination options by almost 20 %.”

“Our research shows that in particular, trade customers want the flexibility and convenience of online ordering, coupled with the knowledge and expertise they get in their local Chadwicks branch. Our new website provides all our customers with the flexibility to shop when they want with the reassurance of dealing with Ireland’s leading builders merchants.

This new service will offer real convenience to customers at great prices backed by the knowledge and experience that construction professionals and DIYers have come to expect from the Chadwicks name. WWe look forward to our customers experiencing the new Chadwicks.ie website which has everything they need to get the job done.”

OCC Construction, a Galway based construction company, have been appointed as the main contractor. The project will take approximately 10 months to complete and will be a LEED certified building, constructed to international standards incorporating high energy performance throughout its design. This development is part of the Shannon Airport Group’s property investment strategy, which delivers property solutions for companies seeking to join the growing cluster of multinational companies on the Shannon Campus – next to Shannon Airport.

MCALEER & RUSHE ANNOUNCES NEW SUSTAINABILITY RECORDING PLATFORM WITH SUSTAINIQ

Leading UK Design & Build contractor McAleer & Rushe has announced a new partnership with SustainIQ, an innovative sustainability reporting system, which will complement its company-wide commitment to carbon reduction and its path to becoming Net Zero by 2045.

employs over 360 staff and operates across four offices in Cookstown, London, Belfast, and Dublin, announced their carbon pledge, a commitment to reduce emissions by 50 percent by 2030 and to become Net Zero as a business by 2045. This commitment to the Net Zero Carbon Pathway forms part of a science-based targets approach to carbon reduction within McAleer & Rushe that will be critical to how they manage and deliver projects into the future.

achieving Net Zero by 2045, we are excited to be rolling out SustainIQ across our sites throughout the UK & Ireland. This will help us map and identify existing and new data to improve our sustainability reporting.

“As our approach to sustainability continues to develop, this system will empower our team and streamline how we capture, use, and interrogate data and information to support our goals. Our partnership with SustainIQ will play a crucial part of our journey toward a better built environment, both

This system will aid the delivery of the company’s sustainability strategy ensuring best practice in construction in line with government policy and guidance. It will allow McAleer & Rushe to streamline sustainability reporting processes, saving time and money, and providing their senior management with real-time insights to better inform sustainable decisionmaking.

Earlier this year, the company, who

Welcoming the link-up with SustainIQ, Charlene Millen, Head of Sustainability at McAleer & Rushe, said, “Sustainability is a core part of all we do at McAleer & Rushe, and we continue to consistently work toward making a positive impact in our local communities, and improving our management of environmental impacts.

“In order to complement and enable our commitment to sustainability and to

for our clients and the communities we operate in.”

SustainIQ Co-Founder, Maria Diffley, commented, “We are delighted to be working with McAleer & Rushe. As a leader in construction, McAleer & Rushe have shown true commitment to sustainability in their approach to business, both socially and environmentally, and we look forward to seeing that impact grow with the use of SustainIQ in the years to come.”

IRISH WATER CALLS ON ORGANISATIONS LARGE AND SMALL TO APPLY FOR WATER CONSERVATION TRAINING

Irish Water is calling on companies of all sizes across Ireland to apply for its Water Stewardship Programme, its comprehensive training programme which helps organisations lower their water use, thereby reducing operating costs and protecting the environment. This comes as over 40 graduates become water stewards for their organisations today at a ceremony at Trinity College Dublin, held by Irish Water.

Over 600 people have undertaken the programme to date from a variety of sectors including hospitality, education, manufacturing, transport and more. The programme, the first of its kind globally, is an international best practice accreditation from the European Water Stewardship Programme. The programme is endorsed by Ibec, Enterprise Ireland and Chambers Ireland, and supported by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

Irish Water’s Water Stewardship Programme, delivered by Central Solutions and available for organisations in any sector, is fully funded by Irish Water and the Lean & Green Skillnet. Participants undertake two months of comprehensive virtual training to better understand how to

conserve water in their organisation. Irish Water today also launched its Annual Certification Scheme, whereby organisations have the opportunity to be recognised on Irish Water’s Wall of Honour. Showcased on its website water.ie/stewardship, the Wall of Honour recognises organisations that have made massive strides in their water conservation efforts.

Companies across the board have already made significant progress in reducing their water use through participating in Irish Water’s Water Stewardship Programme, resulting in monetary and environmental benefits. For example, Dublin City University reduced its water consumption by over 50,000m3 annually, resulting in a saving of more than €100,000 in water costs. ABP also halved its water consumption, meaning it reached water conservation targets two years ahead of schedule. Additionally, Water Stewardship Programme alumni ABP Bandon and Wyeth have both achieved Alliance for Water Stewardship platinum certification, only a handful of sites in the world to do so.

Welcoming the new graduates, Yvonne Harris, Irish Water’s Head of Customer Operations, said: “We’re delighted to welcome over 40 graduates from our Water Stewardship Programme today, bringing the total number of water stewards in organisations to over 600. These stewards are proactively driving water conservation initiatives in organisations large and small across the country to protect our precious water supplies.

Through our programme, more than 1,400 new water conservation projects have been put in place, resulting in significant cost savings and benefitting the environment. Our programme is internationally recognised and is the first of its kind globally, and we encourage all organisations to apply online to take part.

“Today we also launch our Annual Certification Scheme, which is available for all organisations with a dedicated water steward. The scheme enables any site with evidence of its continued commitment to water stewardship to receive recognition on our Wall of Honour, and to join the award-winning peer-to-peer network of leading water stewardship firms across Ireland. Member organisations also benefit from access to exclusive events, research opportunities and best-practice tools in Water Stewardship.”

Ken Stockil, CEO at Central Solutions added: “As delivery partner for Irish Water, Central Solutions ensures participants in the Water Stewardship Programme understand the skills required to reduce water, energy and related inputs across the four key principles of water stewardship, namely quality, quantity, governance and catchment. We welcome the new graduates and encourage companies across the board to get involved in the programme. Water stewardship is a collective and holistic approach that can achieve substantial economic, environmental and societal benefits for all water users.”

FORTY YEARS OF BUILDING EXCELLENCE

Operating out of Barefield in County Clare, Galvin Construction is an industry-leading, family-run building contracting company that celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2023. To coincide with this major milestone, Building Ireland touched base with hands-on proprietor Enda Galvin – a builder who takes ownership of every project he puts his name to.

Cluain Fia - a stunning development of luxury ‘A’ rated homes in Crusheen

Galvin Construction pride themselves on high-quality workmanship

Since its inception in 1983, Galvin Construction has earned an unrivalled reputation as one of Clare’s premier building contractors, successfully delivering a vast and varied portfolio of outstanding residential and commercial projects to the very

highest standards of construction excellence.

Today, this exceptional secondgeneration family business is fronted by Enda Galvin, who took the reins from his father John in 2011, having been heavily involved at construction’s coalface all his working life.

To ensure high-quality workmanship at all times, with projects invariably meeting if not exceeding customer expectations, Enda focuses on creating a professional and harmonious working environment, where teamwork is prioritised and all trades and personnel work in unison to

An industry-leading, family-run building contracting company

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction Ltd

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction Ltd

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction Ltd

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Best Wishes to Galvin Construction

CONTACT DETAILS

Galvin Construction Ltd., Faunrusk, Barefield, Ennis, County Clare.

Tel: 086 3497709

Email: galvinconsltd@gmail.com

contractor / client relationships through communication, transparency, honesty and flexibility. The deployment of highlyskilled personnel is a prerequisite to delivering remarkable results time and time again.

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contractors achieve a common end goal:

“A lot of it comes down to taking responsibility for who’s doing the work and only using tradesmen who are capable of producing exceptional workmanship,” the Clare builder notes.

“As the main contractor, the onus is on us to make sure that everything is finished right, with everybody working together to the high standards that our clients expect.

“If everybody is working together and getting along with each other, then that’s

a big part of it. Once everybody is pulling in the same direction, it leads to a better working environment and the site is a better place to be. It’s simple, really: if you are doing it, do it right. Comebacks are no good to me or to anybody. All I’m interested in are quality projects done right and that’s what I strive to bring to my customers every time.”

Working closely with renowned architects, engineers and design teams, Galvin Construction pride themselves on establishing and maintaining strong

“You don’t want to run into any problems either during the construction phase or down the road and for that reason we only use experienced, highly-skilled workmen and quality materials,” Enda confirms. “We take full accountability for the finished project.

“I have a core group of directlyemployed tradesmen who have been with me for the bones of ten years. They all have trades and are also skilled general operatives with a very good understanding of what they are doing.

“At the moment, we have three live residential developments up and running here in Clare and typically I’d

of Clare’s premier building

have four or five of my own lads on each site as well as a number of proven subcontractors. I’ve build up good longterm relationships with these subbies and use the same ones all the time because I know from experience that I can depend on them to reach the levels demanded.”

As for Galvin Construction’s wonderful achievement of reaching its 40thanniversary milestone, Enda adds: “It’s hard to believe – you don’t really see the time going by. The encouraging thing for us is that we have built our reputation on the quality of our work. We don’t do any major advertising at all, but prefer to get our work through referrals and word of mouth. We always leave quality behind us and that leads to more work.”

It’s the traditional way of running and growing a construction company – and still the best way. “If you’re not doing it right, there’s no point doing it at all,” Enda states matter-of-factly.

The aforementioned housing developments account for virtually all of Galvin Construction’s activities at present, although Enda and his team have also recently completed a superb 44,000 sq. ft. extension to printed paper cup manufacturer Cup Print’s facility at Ballymaley Business Park, Ennis. “We also still take on the occasional one-off new build home, although not as many

as we used to because we are so busy with the developments.”

Regarding this trio of ongoing residential housing schemes, Enda reveals: “We’ve finished a scheme of 42 units in Crusheen and have now moved onto the next phase of 29 additional homes there. We’re also hoping to secure planning for another 42 houses on that site.

“We’ve been on site in Crusheen for two or three years now and of course there were many ups and downs through Covid but we are back on track now. Covid brought its challenges but we came out of it well and those first 42 houses are complete and we’re delighted to have moved on to the next 29.

“Meanwhile, we’re also currently building 17 houses in Tulla, County Clare, where we’ve just started to hand them over and I expect that all 17 should be handed over by January. In August, we started a third scheme in Shannon. Here, we have planning permission for 103 units in total and we have already started work on the first phase, which consists of 22 houses.”

With three live sites up and running, where current phases comprise some 69 units, Enda is in a position where his order book is full and he’s not actively seeking additional work as we speak.

“We’re very busy for the time being,

which isn’t a bad complaint. I have 15 lads employed directly on those jobs and you could be talking about another 50 or 60 on top of that if you include subcontractors.

“I have two lads running the office and a foreman on each site. I spend my own time on site, on the ground, meeting the lads and making sure that everything is going smoothly. I grew up working on sites and that’s where I prefer to be. You can stay on top of things and you also get more out of the lads that way.

“We have enough work on now and there’s no point taking on too much because that’s not doing the client any favours and it’s not doing ourselves any favours. We’re not going to take on more work than we can handle and the last thing I’ll do is let standards drop. There’s no point wasting anybody’s time.

“We carry most of our own gear and can do all our own site works and groundworks. There’s also a plant hire element to the company and we have some machinery on hire at a local quarry.

“I’m very lucky at the moment in that all the work is within 20 minutes of my front door,” Enda concludes. “That’s the furthest I have to travel and all the lads are local too. They’re all good, motivated lads and they are always on site early, fresh and ready to go.”

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction

Best Wishes and Continued Success to GALVIN CONSTRUCTION LTD EOGHAN

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to Galvin Construction

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SEVENTY YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN ENGINEERING

Celebrating 70 years in business, TOBIN Consulting Engineers is a multi-disciplinary engineering practice operating across four separate divisions including Civil | Design Build | Water, Building and Infrastructure, Environment and Planning and Roads & Transportation.

Employing 135 people at its offices in Galway, Dublin, Castlebar and Limerick, the practice was recently honoured at the 2022 ACEI (Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland) Awards in the ‘Innovation – Medium’ category for delivering the world’s largest Sports Air Dome for Connacht GAA in Bekan, Co. Mayo.

TOBIN Consulting Engineers is no stranger to winning prestigious awards,

having previously won ACEI Awards in 2019 and ’20 for Design Excellence –Structures and Project Management

respectively, while it also scooped two awards (Engineering Project of the Year and Heritage & Conservation) at the 2018 Engineers Ireland Excellence Awards.

TOBIN was involved in every aspect of the development of what’s become known as the NUI Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome, from planning stages to contract administration and appointment, through to construction

TOBIN Consulting Engineers struck gold at the 2022 ACEI Awards

and ultimate completion in October 2020. TOBIN acted as Project Manager, Client’s Representative, Consulting Engineers, PSDP and Cost Managers on the iconic project.

Comprising a double skin fabric, the Air Dome is located on the site of the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence and measures 150m (length) x 100m (width) x 26m (height). The high-specification facility accommodates a full-size 4G synthetic GAA pitch, 130m indoor running track, extensive gym facilities which can accommodate up to 30 people at one time, internal performance testing facilities, 2G synthetic surface concourse areas and seating for over 600 spectators for competitive fixtures.

The energy-efficient Smart Air Dome features specialist LED lighting, hightech inflation, air exchange, ventilation and heating adaptations that are controlled by multiple systems which use automated fault detection as well as monitoring and maintenance technology to control heat, pressure, humidity and lighting. These automated features create alerts which are sent to the PC and Mobile App of the operator.

The innovative design allows for the structure to transform itself from a sporting facility for the local community into a fully-functional, adaptable conference area within 72 hours. Other prospective functions allow the Air Dome to be used for executive training days, trade exhibitions and concerts with a

CONTACT DETAILS

TOBIN Consulting Engineers Fairgreen House, Fairgreen Road, Galway, H91 AXK8.

Telephone: 091 565211

Email: info@tobin.ie

Web: www.tobinconsultingengineers. com

capacity to hold up to 10,000 people –making it one of Ireland’s largest indoor venues.

TOBIN helped deliver the world’s largest Sports Air Dome for Connacht GAA in Bekan, Co. Mayo

The €3.1 million Air Dome creates a superlative space allowing for sporting events to take place year-round without interruption due to adverse weather conditions

TOBIN Project Director Brendan Heaney receives the ACEI Award from David McHugh

The benefits of the €3.1 million Air Dome are endless and most notably create a superlative space allowing for sporting events to take place year-round without interruption due to adverse weather conditions.

“It’s an amazing facility,” TOBIN Project Director Brendan Heaney proudly states.

“Since it opened, it has held numerous GAA matches, GAA Congress and the All-Ireland Scór na nÓg finals to name but a few. Last January’s FBD Connacht League game between Sligo and Leitrim was the first-ever inter-county fixture to be held indoors. It’s fully booked out all-year round and was in high demand during Covid when it allowed for conferences and events to be held in a safe environment.

“Despite some disruption caused by the pandemic, the project works progressed safely and successfully, and were completed within 12 months in accordance with the budget.”

The development was conceptualised through careful planning and investigation of similar international project examples. Consideration was given to the creation of a conventional

building. However, costs would have been tenfold and the client’s budget was limited. Instead, research was conducted for innovative solutions which led to the conclusion that the optimum facility for the area would be an Air Dome.

With over 200 events cancelled annually due to adverse weather in the area, the Air Dome has provided the GAA with a facility to host games and training year-round. The double layer inflatable membrane has been engineered to adapt to weather conditions and, when fully inflated, can withstand wind speeds in excess of 100km/h.

Although dome technology is already used worldwide, the magnitude of this development, coupled with the unique requirements of Gaelic Games, posed various challenges that had to be overcome and which ultimately led to the achievement of the Air Dome being the first of its size globally. While dome structures are usually temporarily inflated and deflated for use, the Bekan facility is designed to remain inflated allyear round.

The inflatable structure, comprising Grade 5 Canvas, is anchored to a metrehigh concrete perimeter beam around the site, with three platform stations used

to inflate the doom and keep it in place. The air fans that inflate the structure are powered by electricity which are backed up by diesel generators in the event of a power failure. These generators in turn are backed up with another generator and fan as a precautionary measure. With its high energy-efficient design, keeping the Air Dome inflated requires the use of only one air fan, with running costs for the inflation being just €150 a day, with PV panels offsetting energy costs with surplus power exported to the grid.

Given its location and the adverse weather conditions the West of Ireland is prone to, the Air Dome has a weather station which detects strong winds, rainstorms and snowstorms. It reacts to such conditions by changing the air pressure internally. The Air Dome is heated using gas blower heaters which can reach temperatures of up to 19 degrees Celsius. In the event of snowfall, the outer membrane of the double layered structure collapses, allowing for the internal heat in the structure to melt the snow. Once melted, the second layer automatically inflates again.

Predominantly engaged in the Civil | Design Build | Water; Building and Infrastructure; Environment and

Excellence in engineering

Pat O’Brien has over 30 years’ experience in the critical field of Health and Safety and Management

PAT O’BRIEN SAFETY OPENS NEW TRAINING CENTRE

These are exciting times for Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd which is recognised as one of Ireland’s leading safety consultancy and training providers. After seeing its turnover significantly grow during the pandemic due to the high demand for PPE and Covid-19 workplace safety risk assessments, the company has now moved to a new premises at No. 9 Robinhood Road, Dublin 22 (Eircode D22 DT29).

As a one-stop-shop safety solutions provider, Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd is now providing regular inhouse safety training courses at its new premises. Fronted by Pat O’Brien, the company has seven staff –including Pat’s son Colm who is General Manager – followed by a further 30-50

training and consultancy contractors employed on a regular basis. It can count Clancy Construction, PJ Hegarty & Sons, John Paul Construction, Winthrop Engineering & Contracting and Architectural Aluminium among its ever-expanding client-base.

As one of Ireland’s leading safety consultancy, training and products

Pat O’Brien Safety has moved to a new premises at No. 9 Robinhood Road, Dublin 22

CONTACT DETAILS

Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd

No. 9 Robinhood Road, Dublin 22, D22 DT29

Tel: 01 4569415

Mobile: 086 2682683

Email: enquiries@patobriensafety.com

Web: www. patobriensafety.com

philosophy” from his experience in Japan in achieving excellence in everything he does.

Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd specialises in advising customers on the most appropriate, cost effective – and often simplest approach to creating a safe and healthy work environment and culture. Their aim as a Safety Management specialist is to facilitate clients and to be a renowned centre of excellence for them.

Safety Certification to the relevant standards; as well as bespoke Health and safety products.

The company was founded in 2011 by Pat O’Brien, who is Managing Director.

Pat has over 30 years’ experience in the critical field of Health and Safety and Management from design through production and installation processes in a variety of specialised product ranges. Throughout his career, Pat has used the process of the “continuous improvement

ID inspection tags, suitable for use in many industries providers, Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd. is firmly established as the one-stop shop for all health, safety and security needs. The Safety Solutions provider of choice to the construction industry (and many other sectors), Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd offers a complete range of safety and security products, safety Training Courses, Safety Consultancy and documentation, Safety Auditing/Safety Management, Safety Statements, Method Statements, Safety Files and

Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd achieves this by providing a one-stop shop solution on all aspects of safety - safe systems of work, safe plant and machinery and safety training, ensuring that companies are maintaining and exceeding their statutory duty under the relevant safety legislation. They service customers on an ongoing basis by providing safety solutions that satisfy and exceed both their own and customers’ expectations. Particularly prominent within the construction industry, where safety has become a paramount priority, Pat O’Brien Safety Ltd. has a proven track record of delivering exceptional, value-added safety solutions to leading companies across the island, including – but by no means limited to the construction industry. They also service customers in other industry sectors such as Butlers Chocolates, Insomnia Coffee, Ascension Lifts, National Rehabilitation Hospital, TIDL, Essentra, private estates, many logistics companies and manufacturing companies just to name a few.

Offering up to 100 training courses, they also supply safety products like safety tagging systems, LOTO, Working at Height Equipment, tethering products, Tayhope Locks, Slice Safety Knives, First Aid Supplies, Defibrillators, Safety Signage and much more as well as providing Consultancy Services and finally testing & certification of working at height equipment and PAT testing. They

Pat O’Brien MD - Pat O’Brien Safety

sell a large range of Personalised Laser Printing with logos for ID inspection tags, suitable for use in many industries but particularly suited to lifting gear, the working at height testing sectors and provide a fast turnaround service.

It is through his unswerving policy of providing clients with bespoke products and services, tailored to their precise needs, that Pat – who possesses a rare, all-round skillset as his background includes experience in glass / Curtain Walling, Modular glazing, construction, Production and Contracts Management. Health & Safety has been a primary focus and he has managed to establish his business as a leading safety solutions provider within a relatively short time frame.

“No matter what the customer wants when it comes to Health & Safety, they will always go above and beyond to provide what the client requires” Pat confirms.

“We have become adaptable to customer needs and we tailor the business to suit the needs and requirements of the market. For example, we have a healthy interest in new and innovative products like their new range of Slice safety knives which are becoming very popular

in reducing accidents from sharp knives.

“The business was established during a recession when not a lot of people were spending money on training or consultancy at that time, but we have made a lot of contacts and I’ve managed to build it up the business by constantly increasing the product range and scope of training courses and trying to be different to our competitors in the marketplace.

“We’ve never had to advertise. The business has grown organically through word of mouth and recommendations. Often when we work for a contractor or a client providing one service, we also end up providing other services to them or to a number of their subcontractors, or other businesses and also expanding the range that we offer.

“Training courses are offered across a wide range of areas, providing multilingual training to the everdiverse labour market in Ireland, to include: Chemical, Abrasive Wheel, First Aid, Manual Handling, Working at Height, Food & Hygiene, Horticultural Safety, Machinery/equipment, Fire Extinguisher Awareness and Fire Warden, Working at Height Awareness, MEWP, Forklift, Glass Vacuum Lifters and an array of

Vehicle Operated Courses to mention just a few. We now sell a lot of our products online and I can see continued growth in all areas internationally”. He added: “We also provide many Instructor courses to support management training which can be carried out on their premises or alternatively we can place them on public courses or in our new training centre.”

Safety Consultancy services provided include: Health & Safety Consultancy; Accident Investigation; Method Statements; PSCS/PSDP Safety Planning; Risk Assessment Analysis; Safety Auditing and Inspection; and Safety Officer Support.

Looking forward to a bright future, Pat is confident that continued growth is on the cards for Ireland’s most innovative and progressive safety management provider: “We grew by 20% in 2021 and I would foresee similar growth this year and into next year,” he concludes. Pat would like to take this opportunity to thank his customers and suppliers for their continued support as well as his staff and consultancy contractors for their dedication and expertise.

Supplying a superior range of safety products

PROJECT PARTNERS OVER MANY YEARS

We would like to congratulate our friends and project partners in Tobin Consulting Engineers, on reaching the milestone of 70 years in business and we wish them continued success.

Planning; Roads and Transportation sectors, TOBIN Consulting Engineers has come a long way since it was established in June 1952 by Patrick J Tobin. Starting out as a ‘one man’ operation in 22 Eyre Square, Galway, Patrick had a specific vision and set of standards that he was passionate about embedding in a high-quality engineering consultancy practice.

At the core of his vision was a commitment to excellence and to innovation within the engineering arena

as we know it. To make this vision a reality, Patrick set his focus on building a team around him that were committed to this same vision and values. Seventy years later, TOBIN still operates under these same guidelines and proudly maintains a strong family ethos in all of its operations.

Donal Downes joined the practice in 1954 and held the position of Managing Director for many years before being succeeded by Eamonn Waldron in the 1990s. He passed the baton to Patrick

Tobin’s son, Robert, in the 2000s before Ciaran McGovern took the reins in 2020. TOBIN initially specialised in Water Services and Structural Engineering before expanding to offer a wider and exceptional range of services.

The award-winning practice would like to take this opportunity to thank its clients, design teams, collaborators and suppliers for their continued support as well as its high-calibre team for their hard work, dedication and expertise. Here’s to the next 70 years!

The energy-efficient Smart Air Dome features specialist LED lighting, high-tech inflation, air exchange, ventilation and heating adaptations

•Flood Alleviation

•Bridge Construction

Lismany, Lawrencetown, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

•Construction of Roads and Car Parks

Telephone: 090 9685910

•In-Situ and Precast Concrete Installation

Mobile: 087 6328793 (Brian) 087 660 0248 (Damien)

Email: info@kennycivils.ie Website: www.kennycivils.ie

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T: 028 6773 8266 (NI/UK) | 048 6673 8266 (ROI) E: info@pruntypitches.com | W: www.pruntypitches.com

Lismany, Lawrencetown, Ballinasloe, Co. Galw ay, Tel: (090) 9685910, Mobile: 087 632 8793 (Brian) 087 660 0248 (Dam ien), Email: info@kennycivils.ie Website: www.kennycivils.ie

COMMITTED TO QUALITY CONSTRUCTION

Union Homes Ltd is a leading construction company based in Union Hall, Co. Cork. Specialising in new builds, extensions, renovations, external insulation, groundworks and all aspects of carpentry, including fitted furniture, the family-run business can make your dream home a reality.

Taking its name from the small West Cork fishing village in which it’s located, Union Homes was established in 2011 by Shane Hurley who is joined by his wife Ashling and three top-class tradesmen, with several others employed on a sub-contract basis. The company is synonymous with quality construction and is dedicated to customer satisfaction at all times.

Outstanding workmanship, value-for-money and a commitment to working closely with clients are the hallmarks of Union Homes. Health & Safety is at the core of the business, and never more so than in this Covid-19 era. From concept to completion, Shane and his small, but dedicated team are with you every step of the way, ensuring that your new project is designed and built to your specific needs, and that there are no hidden or extra costs involved. All of their work complies with the highest industry regulations.

Whether your next project is a renovation, extension or new build, Union

Homes’ one-stop-shop approach will ensure that both the design and building processes are smooth, comfortable and hassle-free. The West Cork contractor’s reputation for quality construction and ability to complete projects on time and within the agreed budget is borne out by the high volume of repeat business and referrals it receives from architects / designers and scores of satisfied customers.

“Most of our work is carried out between Clonakilty and Schull, and everywhere in between, including Skibbereen,” Shane explains.

“We’ve got a good name in the industry and stand over every job we do. We have our own joinery workshop in Union Hall and also have our own machinery for groundworks. We provide a turnkey service.”

The CIF member enjoys an excellent working relationship with sub-contractors, architects / designers and suppliers alike. Sub-contractors include Michael Limrick Electrical in Union Hall, Donal

O’Donovan Plastering in Rosscarbery and John Twomey Plumbing, while suppliers are Munster Joinery in Ballydesmond, SIG Ireland in Cork, West Cork Building Supplies in Clonakilty and Barry’s Builders Providers in Skibbereen. Michael Burns in Skibbereen and MSA (Mike Shannon Architects) in Clonakilty are Shane’s main architects.

“By employing highly-skilled people, using the same tried and trusted sub-contractors, working closely with our architects and using only the very best building products, we’re able to deliver the highest quality construction to our clients,” adds Shane, who is father to Annie (13), Seán (nine) and Beth (17 months).

Union Homes has an array of top-class machinery and plant to cater for groundworks, including Kobelco excavators ranging from three to 13 tonnes and Manitou telehandlers. Shane deals with McSharry Bros in Roscommon for Kobelco and Lynch & McCarthy in Little Island, Cork for his Manitou needs. Union Homes’ new builds typically range in size from 2,500 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft.

A roof upgrade at Spearline Labs in Skibbereen

Specialising in new builds, extensions and renovations

The company is currently carrying out two extensions in Glandore and a refurbishment in Skibbereen. It is never short of work, despite the uncertainty caused by sky-rocketing energy and building material costs.

“We haven’t been affected by rising costs in terms of securing work. But it’s definitely a worry going forward. When

you price a job now, you know it’s going to be a different price a week or two later. In six months, there will be 20% added on to the cost of the same materials. It’s very important to keep customers abreast of these ever-changing costs,” he stresses.

Construction isn’t the only thing Shane is well-known for. He won three Cork

senior football championship medals with Castlehaven in 2003, ’12 and ’13, and continues to line out for the club. His younger brothers Brian and Michael have regularly featured together in the Cork senior football attack in recent years, with full forward Brian having captained the Rebels this season.

“I won three county finals, but it’s the four I lost that stick in my mind!” the affable builder laughs.

Passionate about building, Shane would like to take this opportunity to thank his customers, suppliers and architects for their continued support as well as his staff and sub-contractors for their hard work, dedication and expertise.

For a free quotation, be sure to give him a call.

“We’ve got a good name in the industry and stand over every job we do”

Fibreglass roofing is one of the many outstanding services provided

Union Homes is synonymous with quality construction and dedicated to customer satisfaction

TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR  ELECTRICAL NEEDS

KN Electrical Services is the electrical contractor of choice to a growing customer-base in the greater Dublin area. Specialising in residential and commercialdevelopments, the company’s aim is to provide the highest standards without compromising onquality.

While KN Electrical Services was established in 2014, its founder and managing director Kane Nolan has been serving the electrical industry since 2008. “I sat my Leaving Cert in June 2008 and had started my apprenticeship by the end of that summer,” explains the now 32-year-old, who has clearly an old head on young shoulders.

“It took me over 5 years to qualify due to the downturn in the industry and economy, however my perseverance and tenacity paid off for me in 2014 resulting in my qualification. As soon as I qualified my goal was to start my own electri-

cal contracting business.

“I established KN Electrical Services on 26th of September 2014 and haven’t looked back since. It’s taken immense work, dedication, consistency and perseverance to get to where we are today and I’m very grateful for the support I’ve received from family, my team, customers and suppliers over

the past eight years.”

From humble beginnings, the business has grown to employ 30 people onsite and at its office in Ballymount, Dublin 12. Kane has 10 vans on the road serving new and existing customers in Leinster and also provides a nationwide service depending on clients’ needs.

KN Electrical Services is a fully insured, RECI and Safe Electric-registered contractor employing a high-calibre team of project managers, engineers, estimators and qualified electricians who complete every job in a safe, professional, friendly and timely manner. The company is EV Charger Installation certified, SEAI Grant certified, GRI Grant and QC

KN Electrical Services’ growing reputation was reflected in its nomination for three awards at Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2022

certified. It has earned an outstanding name for customer service through a strong work ethic and attention-to-detail, which results in repeat business and recommendations from scores of satisfied clients. In

addition, KN Electrical Services places a strong emphasis around communication and believes this is key to building a relationship of trust, respect and reliability with its clients.

“As the industry evolves and grows, so do we. We’re constantly upskilling, refreshing and adapting to new legislation. We’re very proactive and do things on our own initiative. You have to be dynamic and adaptive in this industry or you won’t succeed,” Kane says. Having initially specialised in domestic, maintenance and emergency callouts, KN Electrical Services is now fo-

cused on residential and commercial developments. It is currently carrying out full electrical installation packages on two large housing projects for Glenveagh Properties in Co. Meath and Dublin. The South Dublin Contractor is also engaged in another 100-unit residential development in Co. Wicklow for MCH, 33 unit apartment complex in Dublin for Glenbeigh Construction, a 54 unit residential development in Kildare for KDM and large residential development in Rathgar for BHA.

“We’re 60% residential, 40% commercial. Our clients include main contractors such as Glenveagh Properties, Glenbeigh Construction, KDM, BHA and Mount Collins Homes. We also work closely with UniSpace on office, commercial and retail fitouts,” the young managing director continues.

“We started out doing small bespoke projects, private projects and maintenance, but the larger projects such residential estates and office fitouts gradually took over. However, we still have a dedicated team working on the small

The

Building, Dun Laoghaire

KN Electrical Services provides an exceptional residential and commercial service to main contractors, fit out companies, building contractors, homeowners, landlords and tenants

projects for our long term clients. We have 12 live projects underway as we speak.”

KN Electrical Services provides an exceptional residential and commercial service to main contractors, fit out companies, building contractors, homeowners, landlords and tenants. Over the years, Kane and his team have garnered a wealth of knowledge and experience to deliver in all aspects of the domestic sector.

“Every project we are appointed to requires expert knowledge and understanding from the tendering to handover stages to ensure the project is completed on time, within budget and in a safe manner.”

While they aren’t at the top of its list of priorities at the moment, KN Electrical Services can also provide industrial, maintenance and consultancy services. The company also designs, supplies, installs and maintains EV charging points in all sectors, including domestic, com-

mercial, industrial, public and fleet. For more information on this, log onto www. electricvehiclecharger.ie

Kane admits that soaring material costs caused by Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine have put a strain on the industry.

“Rising material costs and slower delivery times have had a massive impact on our industry. Our margins have decreased, especially on residential sites where some contracts were signed before Covid hit. Nonetheless we continue to provide excellent services to all of our valued clients.”

KN Electrical Services’ growing reputation was reflected in its nomination for three awards at Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2022, which recognise the achievements of the top electrical contractors, consultants, suppliers, people, products and projects across Ireland. The company was delighted to be shortlisted for Electrical Contractor of the Year, Residential

Project of the Year and Commercial Project of the Year.

KN Electrical Services are proud sponsors of Castlewarden Golf Club and St Anne’s GAA, Bohernabreena. Kane currently lines out for the St Anne’s junior footballers, having played senior up until last year.

“Keeping active playing sports etc has always been so important to me throughout my life,” he says.

“It has provided me with fitness, strength both physically and mentally, community, competition, team participation and lifelong friends. These key attributes coupled with focus, discipline and work ethic in business, sports and family life have helped guide me to where I am today.”

As his company continues to go from strength to strength, Kane would like to take this opportunity to thank his clients and suppliers for their continued support as well as his staff for their hard work, commitment, respect and passion.

Employing a high-calibre team of project managers, engineers, estimators and qualified electricians

The electrical contractor of choice - to a growing customer base in the greater Dublin area

With a proven track record of invariably delivering industry-leading projects across all sectors of the construction industry over the past two decades, Nevin Construction is a diverse and constantlyimproving general contracting company.

Since its genesis in Waterford in 2002, Nevin Construction has built up an impressive portfolio of outstanding projects across a complete range of sectors, including commercial, industrial, pharmaceutical,

Building Ireland

Nevin are delivering 22 striking new homes at Two-Mile Borris in Tipperary

Impressive fit-out of Emerald Contact Centre in Waterford City

Pairc Nua is a stunning 18-unit social housing development delivered for Kilkenny County Council

conservation, fit out and refurbishment, education, health, residential and retail. Fully committed to providing a quality service, completing every project to the highest standards, within budget, safely and on time, Nevin has diversified into the critical social housing sector over the past three years. Here, the two decades of experience garnered operating at the forefront of Ireland’s construction industry is put to good use as the skilled and motivated Nevin Construction team deliver a series of ultra-efficient and modern social housing units – the current development of 22 striking new homes at Two-Mile Borris in Tipperary being a case in point.

John Breen is contracts manager on this magnificent social housing scheme, which is due to be handed over to Tipperary County Council by the end of November. “We started our first social housing scheme with Waterford County Council in 2019, worked on a second one for Kilkenny County Council in 2020 and 2021, and started the current one with Tipp County Council in July, 2021,” he reveals.

“So, we’ve essentially had a couple on the go at the same time over the past few years. While the social housing schemes have been running, we’ve also been doing a number of commercial fit outs up and down the country. We’re also in the process of handing over the brand-new Aldi store in Clonakilty, which we built from start to finish on a brownfield site, having also recently delivered

New Aldi store in Clonakilty Co. Cork

Aldi stores in Dungarvan and Waterford city.

“We’re extremely busy at the moment, covering a broad range of work including new builds, internal fit outs and alterations to office blocks and commercial units.”

The attention to detail and workmanship evident on the ongoing Two-Mile Borris development typify the professional approach to building that has seen Nevin Construction go from strength to strength as a contractor of choice over the past 20 years.

“They are incredibly efficient homes, with an air-to-water electrical heat pump system to heat water and no reliance on burning fossil fuels,” John continues.

“The homes are designed to achieve an A-rating for energy and have been fitted with double-glazed windows by Munster Joinery. They have a very modern look and are high-quality, ultra-efficient homes with a very nice finish.

“Within the 22 units is a mixture of two-bedroom bungalows and two-storey homes – a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom. One house within the development is an accessible unit with a ground-floor bedroom, three first-floor bedrooms and accessible bathroom.”

A key member of the Nevin Construction team for the past five years, John says the development went according to plan apart from a frustrating four-month delay that was completely out of the main contractor’s control. “We encountered a significant delay when the overhead ESB lines where not removed when we were ready for them to be removed and there were other challenges such as inflation and the availability of resources, but we called on our experience and expertise and found ways of dealing with these difficulties.”

Nevin’s diversification into the social housing market was a natural move as both John and the directors have a rich background working in housing with McInerney Construction. Prior to the last recession, Nevin Construction also amassed invaluable experience working on private housing developments.

The excellent, client-focused team at Nevin Construction is fronted up by managing director Bernard Nevin, commercial director Paurick Tanehy and construction director Hugh Mullaney alongside contracts manager John Breen, an estimator, a senior QS, two junior QS’s and a marketing manager, ably assisted by a tried-and-trusted cohort of subcontractors, who consistently meet the most exacting standards.

The management team has accumulated extensive and diverse experience in commercial, industrial, pharmaceutical and residential construction and fit out projects, their ability to deliver high quality projects resulting in strong and lasting relationships with clients and associates.

With offices in Waterford, Cork and Dublin, Nevin Construction’s reputation is built on trust and the company is currently taking advantage of its strong position, with a busy order book in front of them. The directors are dedicated to maintaining a safe working environment for all employees and significant resources are deployed to ensure best practice in Health & Safety. In 2016, Nevin were awarded Grade A Safe-TCert accreditation, recognised by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA), and they have since continued to maintain this Grade A status during each annual audit.

Nevin Construction are dedicated to continuous improvement strategies, applying new technologies and expanding and advancing to provide high quality solutions to complex challenges. Predominantly working south of an imaginary straight line from Dublin to Limerick, Nevin Construction is currently enjoying a phase of steady growth. “We’ve been very busy over the last five years and we’re getting even busier now, but we can’t lose the run of ourselves,” says John. “We have to keep a close eye on things.

“The market is very difficult at the moment and we are trying to make sure we are covered on projects and that we don’t leave ourselves exposed to inflation. There are real concerns around construction right now and it’s very difficult to commit to a two-year project – or even a twelve-month one – without considering the cost of inflation.”

Some other recent projects of note delivered by Nevin Construction include the extensive refurbishment and fit out of the Permanent TSB branch on the corner of Grafton Street and Harry Street in Dublin city centre in 2018. Works on this award-winning €15m project comprised the complete strip out of the four-storey building (each floor circa 12,000 sq ft) including major structural alterations, a full re-fit of all M&E services and new state-of-the-art glazing systems and a high-end re-fit of all floors. The branch was completed to an exceptionally high standard and handed over to the client on time.

Meanwhile, the Emerald Contact Centre

project in Waterford city involved the extensive fit out of a 30,000 sq ft, four-storey building, carried out over four phases, to accommodate the client’s new global headquarters and its expanding workforce at Waterford Business Park. Nevin Construction have come a long way in 20 years and the future is looking extremely bright as they continue to deliver a comprehensive range of construction projects in an increasingly-volatile marketplace. As for the key to ongoing success and growth, their personable contracts manager concludes:

“In delivering high-quality construction solutions, you have to try to be as competitive as you can but at the same time it’s vital to make sure you have everything covered on price. You don’t want to be going back with your hand open halfway through. Communication is extremely important too, so that you have your site team, management team and all other stakeholders are all working together.”

Tel: 051 852 808 info@woodpecker.ie

www.woodpecker.ie

Best Wishes and Continued Success to NEVIN CONSTRUCTION

CET DELIVERING CONNECTIVITY ACROSS EUROPE

Ireland’s premier provider of structured cabling and data centre infrastructure services, CET Connect, is expanding its operations across mainland Europe. With the in-demand telecommunications specialist very much on an upward trajectory, we touched base with Projects Director Paul O’Neill to get an update on the consistent growth of this exceptional Irish success story.

provider of structured cabling and data centre infrastructure services in Ireland, the UK and Europe and their sphere of influence continues to grow - in conjunction with their expertise, reputation for excellence and skilled workforce.

Tipperary-headquartered structured cabling specialist CET Connect is making its mark on the international stage, delivering connectivity both at home and abroad.

Since its inception in 1999, CET has firmly established itself as a leading

Over the past 23 years and counting, CET Connect – headquartered in Clonmel and with offices in Dublin, the UK, France, Sweden and Germany - has excelled in the critical fields of structured cabling, data centre infrastructure, fibre optic services, network design, fluke testing and network M.A.C.S, successfully delivering a wide range of major

infrastructure projects across the continent, from Hyperscale Data Centre builds and award-winning landmark construction projects to the continued provision of services to multinationals in the pharmaceutical, life science, education and food sectors.

With the establishment of CET Connect Germany GmbH in late 2021, with its registered main office in Frankfurt, Ireland’s leading IT network infrastructure and structured cabling installation service provider took another major step forward.

“Entering the German market was a big

CET Connect, is expanding its operations across mainland Europe

undertaking and it has proven to be a major success for CET Connect,” notes Projects Director Paul O’Neill. “We’re extremely busy in Germany, predominantly working on data centre projects.

“But it’s not just Germany - we are busy in all our markets as we are constantly developing new relationships and attracting new customers in existing regions as well.”

CET has amassed a wealth of experience in the design and installation of local area networks, including both fibre and copper backbone cabling. Clients appreciate their responsiveness and welcome their ‘can do’ attitude.

Pragmatic, professional, proactive and flexible when it comes to project delivery, CET Connect has built up an impressive client base over the years, based on quality workmanship and a commitment to achieving complete customer satisfaction.

A high-quality installation is guaranteed every time and each team member brings professionalism, expertise and experience to every project. All of this emanates from their vision statement to ‘consistently provide a high-quality level of service and value for every customer, through a culture of flexibility and operational excellence throughout our organisation’.

Taking their commitment to teamwork further, CET believe in a partnership approach, working hand in hand with clients, understanding what the customer values and then delivering it.

As proven experts in structured cabling, CET are highly experienced in CAT 5e, CAT 6 and CAT 6a systems in both UTP and FTP, in complete end to end solutions from leading manufacturers. They invest in the specific brand training and the most up-to-date testing equipment, which is vital to ensuring that a quality installation is invariably delivered.

Wholly vendor independent, CET are certified installers of Brand-Rex / Leviton, Commscope, Netconnect, Excel, AFL Hyperscale , Nexans, and Molex cabling solutions amongst others. A 25-year manufacturer’s warranty is offered and all installations comply with the highest industry standards including ANSI/TIA/EIA 568-B, BS EN 501731:2011 & IEC 60794.

Over the years, CET have been involved in multiple new data centre builds for a number of clients across Europe, data centres being large groups of networked computer servers used for the remote storage, processing or distribution of large amounts of data.

CET believe in a partnership approach with clients because this is the most effective way to make things happen and ensure things are done in accordance with the customers requirements. . Meanwhile, their own internal culture supports this approach, which is why every member of the CET Connect team delivers a high quality installation every time.

The Covid-19 pandemic and the public health measures taken to combat it made operating a pan European business more challenging and during this time our primary focus was on keeping our people safe. However, we did not lose sight of the opportunities within our sector and continuously communicated with our Customers about their difficulties whilst also continuing to develop our in house systems and processes so that, when restrictions were eased we were in a position to resolve any pent up demand that had built up for those customers. This momentum has continued and CET Connect remains very much in a period of expansion, currently generating employment for 150 highly-skilled specialists all over Ireland and Europe, together with 20 personnel

based at the head office in Clonmel and another 12 in the operations office in the Irish capital.

Paul, who divides his time between both offices, reflects:

Over the past decade in particular the world has experiences revolutionary advancements in electronic communications and data storage and transmission. The importance of the physical layer (Fibre and Copper Network Cabling) and the part it plays in ensuring unfaltering connectivity is acknowledged by all involved in the provision of these systems. The critical nature of these networks has meant that IT departments, designers and those responsible for the long term operation of these networks only appoint highly knowledgeable and professional companies whom they can rely on the deliver their key projects.

Our internal culture of continuous improvement, and the continued development of our people, systems and processes coupled with the vast amount of experience gained from our 23 year history, has put us in a position where we can successfully deliver these high profile critical projects.

“We have 120 people working on sites all across Europe. We hire locally and supervise the projects from Ireland and

Interxion Data Centre

Breathing life into infrastructure

through our various offices. The priority on every project is to deliver an outstanding service and to do so on time.”

CET Connect’s status as a proven IT network infrastructure and structured cabling installer of choice in the international arena is testament to the ability of

Irish companies to lead the way on the world’s construction stage.

Irish construction companies have a a proven track record for delivering critical construction projects across Europe and further afield. many Irish Construction, Electrical and Mechanical companies

have offices in numerous countries and are there for a good reason. Their clients know and trust them to manage and deliver. . CET Connect are proud to part of this ecosystem which is unique to our small country and truly is an Irish success story.

TANKS FOR EVERYTHING

Serving the energy, domestic, construction and agricultural sectors with a growing range of fuel, water, meal and material storage solutions, Platinum Tanks is an industry-leading, family-run business that utilises renewable, sustainable resources to create exceptional products. We headed to Monaghan and spoke to managing director Pat Cassidy to find out more.

Manufacturing an ever-expanding range of domestic oil storage tanks, domestic attic tanks, rainwater harvesting tanks, oil interceptors, coal bunkers and agricultural products from its base in County Monaghan, Platinum Tanks is a rotational moulding company that has been creating sustainable, renewable and environmentally-friendly solutions for domestic oil and water storage since 2006.

The energy sector is very much at the core of the business, which produces state-of-the-art single-skin and bunded oil storage tanks in compliance with

EU standard EN13341 as well as diesel and AdBlue storage tanks. Their range of environmentally-friendly bunded oil tanks enables the safe storage of oils and other harmful liquids. With bunded oil tanks, as spills from the inner tank are contained inside the outer bund, the unintentional release of harm-

ful liquids into the environment around the tank is prevented.

Platinum Tanks also produce a range of water tanks and cost-effective rainwater storage solutions to suit both the domestic and agricultural markets. For the agri sector, they manufacture feeders, drinkers and chemical and meal storage solutions.

Currently generating direct gainful employment for a team of more than 35, supplying high-quality, value-added products to customers island-wide and also exporting into the UK market, Platinum Tanks has come a long way from modest beginnings 16 years ago and continues to go from strength to strength as we speak.

Pat and Michelle Cassidy

Platinum Tanks is a rotational moulding company

“We’re very busy at the moment, it’s unreal,” notes MD Pat Cassidy, who established the company alongside his wife Michelle. “It’s an ill wind that blows no favour. When Covid hit, oil went to negative equity and 1,000 litres was €200 in June, 2020 – 20cent a litre. It’s now €1,300 and rising for the same quantity of oil but demand remains as strong as ever and, on the back of that, we are very busy.”

Driving the growth of the business is its diversification to provide a vast range of products covering a variety of sectors.

“We manufacture a range of plastic storage products, serving the home heating oil, domestic and agri / farm sectors and we have also expanded into renewables with rainwater harvesting tanks and stands for solar panels,” Pat confirms. “We use recycled material to make these stands and also for coal bunkers. As the plastic has been recycled, this is of benefit to the environment. We also do contract manufacturing for companies who send us their moulds and we manufacture solutions to spec.”

It’s all go at Platinum Tanks these days, with a three-shift working pattern in operation at the modern manufacturing facility in Lough Eglish, which runs 24 hours a day five days per week.

“We’re always developing new products, new ideas and new innovations in response to the needs of the market,” Pat continues. “On top of this, we are constantly looking at existing products and trying to improve them, be this in the home heating or domestic water storage markets. For example, we have developed a range of pressure-booster water tanks for homes where the mains pressure is low.

“We’re also looking at new ideas to make life easier for farmers. I do a bit of farming myself so this is an area I’m familiar with. The age profile of the average farmer in Ireland is 50+ now and we’re trying to come up with solutions which help to reduce the amount of labour required on the farm. We manufacture plastic meal bins, cattle drinkers, drinkers for slatted sheds that don’t need cleaning out, and also a range of teat feeders and troughs.

“As leaks in oil tanks can potentially cause catastrophic damage to the environment, our bunded oils tanks – essentially a tanks within a tank – offer significant benefits. The bulk of oil storage tanks in the Irish Republic at present are single skin, and bunded tanks are a great replacement option. They are available from 650 litres up to 5000 litre

CONTACT DETAILS

Platinum Tanks Ltd., Lough Egish Business Park, Lough Egish, Castleblayney, County Monaghan.

Tel: 042 9745780 / 81

Fax: 042 9745782

Email: sales@platinum-tanks.ie

Web: platinum-tanks.ie

capacity.”

Platinum Tanks’ range of bunded oil tanks are manufactured from UV stabilised linear low density polyethylene to protect the product from UV degradation. A standard 1” BSP outlet is extended from the inner oil tank through the bund for ease of installation. The inner tank comes fitted with a gauge bung, which can be removed in order to fit an ultrasonic sensor at a later date. The inner tanks are manufactured to European Standard EN13343. But for a shortage of labour, Pat could potentially grow the business at an even faster rate. “It’s difficult to get people to do manual labour. Over the past 30 years, as a nation, everybody at school

was pushed into college. During the bust between 2007 and 2010, people with trades like blocklayers, plumbers, plasterers and electricians were all dropped. One of the main reasons we have a shortage of houses is that there’s nobody to build them. Because demand is much stronger than supply, prices are going up.”

Despite massive increases in overheads – both the cost of raw materials and energy – Pat says Platinum Tanks are still profitable and getting a fair price for their products. “Our gas bill in August, 2021 was €10,000 for a month and it went up to €40,000 for the same period in 2022. Fortunately, we are locked in on a price with our electricity provider.

“Our delivery costs have also gone up 50% [another way Platinum Tanks keep control of costs is by taking care of their own distribution across the 32 counties]. While input costs have increased, we are looking at what we can control to try to maximise our efficiencies.

“We can control our production facility and our process – how we produce

products and how efficient we are. It comes down to producing a quality product as efficiently as possible. Turnover is in excess of €5m and I’m hoping that will rise to €8-10m over the next three-five years.”

Despite the relentless drive towards clean energy, Pat believes there will always be a market for oil and other fossil fuels. “There is still massive demand for oil and I can’t see how it will ever be done away with. Wind and solar power only work at certain times of the year in certain conditions and the bulk of our energy is still produced by burning fossil fuels, which are in abundance.

“If we switch to electric cars, the infrastructure isn’t there to support them so the cars won’t work and neither will households or industry,” says Pat, who is heavily involved in Monaghan GAA. He is currently chairman of Carrickmacross Emmets and is a former club and county footballer. In his capacity as proprietor of Platinum Tanks, he is also a major sponsor of Carrickmacross and Monaghan GAA.

As well as being a big employer in a rural area, Platinum Tanks also support the local community and local charities in any way possible. “We’re a family business, located in Lough Egish, run by locals and looking after locals, with a strong attachment to the GAA and the local community,” Pat concludes.

Half Tonne Meal Storage Bins

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Utilising renewable, sustainable resources to create exceptional products

Platinum Tanks range of bunded fuel stations feature a piusi fuel pump as standard

VARMING WINS PRESTIGIOUS ACEI AWARD

Varming Consulting Engineers director Sean Neary (second right) receives the ACEI Award

Varming Consulting Engineers design and engineer for the future

Early stage detailed design was critical in avoiding clashes and selecting

riser location for the many services required

Varming Consulting Engineers Ltd was recently honoured at the 2022 ACEI (Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland) Awards in the Mechanical and Electrical category for professional services provided in respect of its Donegal Garda Station refurbishment and extension project.

Employing over 50 people at offices in Dublin, Roscommon and Cork, Varming is a leading mechanical, electrical and sustainability consultancy with a history

spanning over 75 years. The winning project involved extensive refurbishment and alteration to the existing facility to achieve nZEB compliance, and provided a modern fit-out. The works included demolition of existing two-storey extension, refurbishment of the existing station, construction of a three-storey over semi-basement contemporary extension to the rear, including a new

custody suite, with rooftop plant room, new boundary enclosures, secure storage and all associated site works. The adjudicators’ award citation read: “A contemporary three storeys over semibasement, modern extension along with an extensive refurbishment of a Garda Station. Limited site space was overcome by the use of Air Source Heat Pump technology to allow the building

Building Ireland

Varming Consulting Engineers has been honoured for professional services provided to the Donegal Garda Station refurbishment and extension project

The practice is dedicated to ensuring the economic, environmental and social sustainability of its designs

CONTACT DETAILS

Varming Consulting Engineers Ltd

(Dublin Office)

Classon House, Dundrum Business Park, Dundrum Road, Dublin 14.

Telephone: +353 (0)1 4872300

Web: www.varming.ie

to achieve its high specification energy ratings of NZEB and BER A3.”

The citation continued: “Early stage detailed design was critical in avoiding clashes and selecting appropriate routes, voids and riser location for the many services required. In-house dynamic simulation was used to validate the design’s environmental sustainability.”

Also a winner at the 2021 RIAI (Royal Institutes of the Architects of Ireland) Awards in the Cultural / Public Building and Sustainability categories, the project was carried out for client OPW in collaboration with main contractors Boyle Construction, electrical contractors O’Hara & Harrison Ltd, mechanical contractor Tim Kelly Group, architect Rhatigan Architects and civil structural engineers CHH Engineering Ltd. It formed part of the Government’s ‘2016-2021 Garda Capital Plan’ and was a key milestone plan at the handover stage.

The original building dates back to the early 20th century and was last upgraded in the 1980s. The existing

Using state-of-the-art engineering design to reduce carbon footprint

A leading mechanical, electrical and sustainability consultancy

building consisted of a public office, interview room and custody suite on the ground floor. The upper floors comprised offices, welfare facilities and canteen. Due to the poor condition of the custody suite, it could no longer be used to detain suspects safely.

The building is located beside an attached live restaurant on the north end and the project was surrounded on the other three sides by existing roadways and Main Street, all of which created a very complex project with significant challenges for the design team and contractors to overcome. The project achieved the highest standards of M&E performance based on agreed budget costs, using state-of-the-art engineering design to reduce carbon footprint, improve reliability and minimise operating and maintenance costs. The new custody suite and interview rooms complies with the latest An Garda Síochana General Specification. The key M&E challenges addressed were OPW M&E section requirements, complex brief requirements from An Garda Síochana as well as the confined site and coastal location. The OPW required the M&E services installation to be cost-effective, efficient and reliable, and ease of maintenance with local service back-up.

“It was a challenging project,” Varming Executive Director and Building Services Engineer Sean Neary says.

“Due to a lack of space on the site, there wasn’t any suitable location for an oil or gas storage tank. This led to us proposing the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps to provide for the building’s heating and hot water demand. Combined with thermally efficient façade glazing, building enhanced insulation, air tightness and contributed to the achievement of the A3 BER as well as meeting nZEB standards, which was no mean feat for a protected structure.

“Everyone bought into it and the works were completed in October 2020, three years after the initial design took place.”

Varming Consulting Engineers design and engineer for the future, providing high-quality, award-winning design, specification and cost-control services coupled with expert advice on sustainable solutions. Founded in 1946, the practice is dedicated to ensuring the economic, environmental and social sustainability of its designs. It is committed to acting on climate in its own operations, limiting the impact of its clients’ developments and encouraging the transformation towards Net Zero

Carbon buildings in the wider industry. Varming boasts a large portfolio of commercial, education, healthcare and industrial projects, each having different design requirements determined by the eventual building use. The company has extensive experience in office developments, residential, retail, leisure, tourism and mixed-use developments. Its designs continue to develop with changing objectives and the challenges set by clients, building owners and occupants. Whether they require spaces for working, living, retail or recreation, Varming strives to provide a healthy and safe environment in the most energyefficient and cost-effective manner. The practice has also been involved in the refurbishment of many historic buildings such as hotels, museums and

theatres, using design technologies in a sympathetic way. Varming has particular expertise in theatres and museums, for which it has won awards for projects such as The Chester Beatty Library and Cork Opera House.

Varming’s greatest asset is its people. Its management and staff encompass dedicated professional specialists who have spent the majority of their careers with the practice. James Kavanagh is the CEO and Joe Greene is Chairman. As it continues to go from strength to strength, the multi-disciplinary practice would like to take this opportunity to thank its clients, design teams, collaborators and suppliers for their continued support as well as its high-calibre team for their hard work, dedication and expertise.

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Varming Consulting Engineers

QUALITY AND COMMUNICATION COME FIRST AT MARK GILLEECE CONSTRUCTION

Delivering high-quality, bespoke new build, extension and renovation projects across Dublin, Meath and surrounding counties for coming up on two decades, Mark Gilleece Construction is firmly focussed on listening closely to customers in order to invariably achieve optimal solutions. Building Ireland touched base with Mark to discuss the history and current well-being of his exceptional general contracting company.

Building Ireland

Delivering high-quality, bespoke new build, extension and renovation projects across Dublin, Meath and surrounding counties

Every project is finished to exacting standards

Quality construction and maintaining strong lines of communication with customers have been consistent trademarks of Mark Gilleece since the Meath man set up his own building contracting company almost 20 years ago. By combining industry-leading workmanship with an unbeatable personal touch, Mark Gilleece Construction delivers bespoke projects that always meet, nay exceed, client expectations.

“We pride ourselves on the quality of all of our projects and we always strive to make sure that everything is done right,” Mark confirms, when asked about the unswerving ethos underpinning his business. “We work with our clients to bring their project from a drawing on a piece

of paper to their dream home.

“I’m good at talking with people and it’s very important to build relationships and work with them through every stage of the process. When you make yourself available to clients and keep them in the loop, they get to trust you and they know you are going to do the job properly.

“I believe our main strength is how we work with clients. We know they are making massive decisions on their forever home and that it’s an incredibly important process for them. If they are doing a smaller extension that is exempt from planning permission and where an architect has not been employed by the client, we can project manage the job and help them to make all the right decisions.

“We focus on understanding what a client needs. To this end, that initial meeting is so important in getting a sense of what the client wants to create, so that we can come up with a plan to bring it to fruition and on budget. Trust is so important with both clients and the subcontractors we use, so that we all understand the vision, the timeline and the budget.

“Every project is critical and once you

complete it to the best of your ability and to client satisfaction, then you’d hope to get repeat work off the back of that.”

A carpenter by trade, Mark worked as a carpentry contractor on large sites in the capital before taking the decision to expand into general contracting. His late father, Frank Gilleece, who was a major part of the business for many years, was not only an inspiration and driving force but also proved to be an excellent sounding board on projects.

Excellent, experienced and skilled staff contribute enormously to the success of Mark Gilleece Construction. Mark recently expanded to take on addition-

Mark Gilleece Construction has the expertise, experience and wherewithal to deliver every project from start to finish

Mark Gilleece Construction has been delivering outstanding results for coming up on two decades

“We work with our clients to bring their project from a drawing on a piece of paper to their dream home.”

al full-time workers and he anticipates further growth in 2023. Many of his inhouse and subcontracted workers have been with him long-term, including his right hand man, John Farrell.

“We have five men full-time at the moment and also use a number of subbies. We’ve had the same crew of trustworthy and knowledgeable subcontractors for a number of years now and tend to use the same guys on every job. I’ve been dealing with them for a long time. They know exactly how we like to work, which

helps keep things efficient and is obviously very important, especially for the smaller jobs that are more time sensitive.

“If you are doing a small extension, for example, and you’re hoping to get it finished in five or six weeks, you’ll want each guy in for a day or two and our subcontractors all know one another and can work together.”

From their base in Trim, County Meath, Mark Gilleece Construction specialise in new builds, extensions, renovations,

internal & attic insulation, small housing developments and basements, generally covering counties Meath, Dublin and Kildare. Business is going very well at the moment and Mark has a number of nice projects both ongoing and in the pipeline.

“We aim to have a mix of jobs at all times, from small building developments

Industry-leading workmanship is combined with an unbeatable personal touch

Quality comes first at Mark Gilleece Construction

to one off builds and lots of renovations and extensions,” he reveals. “We’ve had a lot of repeat clients and are currently working on an extension for a client who is replicating an extension we did in the house where they lived in 2017.

We did a fantastic bespoke architecturally designed family home in Meath with lots of glass to bring the outside in. It was finished to very high spec and the clients had a strong vision and exacting standards for the materials they wanted to use, such as stone work cladding outside and they also brought it through to the inside wall.

“We also completed a large extension and renovation on a land-commissioned cottage near Navan. This was an exciting challenge to blend old with new. The architect had come to me with an excellent design and it was a real joy working on that one.

“Elsewhere, we just gutted a 1970s three-bed semi and brought it up to an ‘A’ energy rating. The first person to view it bought it!

“I worked in London for a few years and gained experience in building basements,” Mark continues. “We built a house back in 2013 where I advised the client to include a basement as they had a sloping site. I am now back on that job

to finish out the basement with a cinema room, utility room, shower room and a five-metre slider to open the basement to the back garden and allow for entertaining. The clients’ kids have grown since the initial build and they now need to update the home to meet their growing needs.

“Indeed, with more and more people continuing to work from home, we’ve been doing more garage conversions and renovations to create additional space as people are now using their houses in different ways. We love working with clients to find new ways to maximize their space and make their homes work better for them.”

Mark Gilleece Construction also boasts an exemplary track record in completing commercial jobs, including a recent pub renovation and a yoga studio. Additionally, the Meath company has experience working on multi-unit residential sites, having acted as both developer and builder on a development of three terraced houses in Longwood, County Meath – a project which was finished in early 2020.

Mark is open to building more such developments in the future – either for himself or in conjunction with a stand-alone developer. “I’ve just done a largescale renovation on a house I bought recently

and now more than ever I understand how important attention to detail and the finality of making a decision on lighting, window placement and kitchen layouts is,” he concludes. “Whilst we pride ourselves on removing the stress from a job – and clients often mention how stressful the decision-making process can be – that now resonates with me more than ever!

“Going forward, we are in a good place and I’m anticipating further expansion of the team as we continue to get busier. We’re working in Dublin more often of late and a lot of these jobs involve opening up houses that were built in the 1970s/’80s and had a lot of rooms. As people spend more time at home, we’ve seen a big trend towards open plan living, where the kitchen is an even bigger part of the home than before.”

Whatever the end result sought – be it a new build or reimagining an existing home - Mark Gilleece Construction has the expertise, experience and wherewithal to deliver it!

Beautiful 4 bed, detached house in Co. Meath

AN OLD HEAD ON YOUNG SHOULDERS

Robert Ralph is a 26-year-old senior project engineer within the Urbanism team in Ethos Engineering who has been shortlisted for Designer of the Year at the 2022 Irish Construction Industry Awards. He was the lead engineer on the Distillers Building in Smithfield, Google Boland’s Quay and Focus Ireland’s Dublin HQ.

Focus Ireland’s Dublin HQ

Having graduated with a first-class BEng (Hons) in Building Services from DIT Bolton Street, Robert joined Ethos as a design engineer four years ago. He quickly became an important team member

in a variety of commercial office (both fit-out and shell and core), residential and student accommodation projects in Ireland.

Initially, the young engineer’s role focused on the technical design of building services, while working

The renovation and refurbishment of the Focus Ireland office

Google Boland’s Quay campus

alongside senior engineers and directors. However, his career progression and ability soon meant he was responsible for the lead mechanical design across numerous projects as well as taking on the overall project lead for Ethos on several of these projects. Robert rose through the engineering ranks quickly and his role accelerated from design engineer to project engineer, and then

to senior engineer after just two years with the company.

“I worked as an intern with Ethos before rejoining them as a design engineer upon graduating from Bolton Street,” he explains.

“Ethos have been very supportive from the first day I walked through the door.

I would like to thank Greg Hayden (CEO), Paul Tighe (director) and Gavin

Murphy (director) for all the support and encouragement they have given me.

“To be nominated for an Irish Construction Industry Award is a tremendous honour which reflects well on the entire Ethos team. As lead engineer on projects such as the Distillers Building and Google Boland’s Quay, I’m the face that people see, but it’s really down to the team around me. It’s a real team effort.”

Focus Ireland’s head office in Dublin was fully refurbished in July 2021

All the work at the Focus Ireland offices was done free of charge

Robert is a highly-regarded technical expert and problem-solver within Ethos and is often consulted by engineers throughout the company on issues and challenges. He is also involved with

the quality review of projects at various stage-gates before deliverables are issued outside of the office. Robert is known for encouraging the development of junior engineers.

He regularly holds technical internal presentations on key topics and shares his lessons learnt with the wider team to ensure issues aren’t repeated in the future. The affable Dubliner has

Focus Ireland head office refurbishment was completed pro bona by over 60 professionals, specialist contractors and tradespeople

Ethos is Ireland’s largest Mechanical Electrical Consultancy

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DMG Engineering continually strive to be one of the most successful providers in the Mechanical and Electrical services installations within the construction and fit out Industry. We take ‘Lessons Learned’ very seriously and we work extremely hard to ensure that our team fully understand and develop from client feedback. Based on the fundamentals of contracting; safety, quality, cost and programme, DMG deliver projects with total accountability.

Our underlying philosophy is to be ‘customer focused’ and respond to the expectations and needs of our clients and interested parties. Once we build relationships and trust with our clients, our aim is to develop these relationships and become a ‘trusted partner’. Our core values are integrity, excellence and respect all of which are engrained in our culture, company and all project team members

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Ethos Engineering!!

The overall campus completion in scheduled for early 2024

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also been involved in mentoring engineers which has involved regular check-ins, and helps in identifying potential opportunities for growth and development.

Robert is very keen to give back to society, in particular to the homelessness crisis in Ireland. He volunteered for and was responsible for the delivery of several pro-bono projects in conjunction with Focus Ireland and Dublin Simon Community. These projects enabled the charities to redirect funds towards their efforts to end homelessness. He is awaiting the results of his MSc in Building Services Management from Brunel University London. Robert is also

Smithfield Luas stop and overlooking the Smithfield Marketplace. As part of the construction, the original Irish Distillers Building was demolished with the historic elevation along Bow Street being retained and incorporated into the design. The overall contract value was approximately €65 million, with the building services sub-contract valued at €8.5 million. The project reached practical completion in July 2022. Due to the historic elements of the original Irish Distillers Building on the site, coupled with the other historic and residential buildings in proximity, the new development was heavily conditioned by the Planning Authority with a particular

and chilled water systems required to service the building. This reduction was also part of Robert’s strategy to minimise the capacity required for the rooftop multifunction heat pump chillers due to the extremely limited roof plant space. The Distillers Building has the distinction of being one of the first of its size to be classified as an NZEB building.

One of Robert’s standout achievements from the past year has been his work on Google Boland’s Quay campus in Barrow Street, Dublin. The campus consists of two large office towers (circa 20,000 sq. m., 12 and 13 stories in each), a residential tower, five historic listed buildings and an external landscape,

in the process of attaining Chartership through Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and plans to submit his application this autumn. Robert functioned as the lead mechanical engineer and overall project lead for Ethos Engineering on the Distillers Building, a 23,000 sq. m. commercial office development in Smithfield, Dublin 7. It consists of an eight-storey building, designed for multi-tenant letting per floor with multiple retail offerings on ground floor as well as a double basement. The building has been pre-let on a long-term lease to the OPW by the landlord. The site is located directly beside the

emphasis on restricting the extent and height of any roof plant space. As a result, there was a significant amount of the building services plant located within the double basement, which created numerous coordination challenges for the services distribution as well as the location of the central plant.

Robert’s knowledge of emerging technologies was key in this, as his designs incorporated packaged AHUs complete with thermal wheels and integrated heat pumps, thus removing the need for large pipework to be routed within the basement to each AHU and also reducing the size of the heating

all above three levels of basement. Robert’s role has been project lead and lead mechanical engineer across the entire campus. The construction stage of the project has commenced, with a phased completion, building by building, planned across 2023 with the overall campus completion in early 2024.

The fit-out of the two commercial office towers included several food and beverage offerings, commercial grade kitchens, conference centre spaces, a gym, a variety of meeting rooms as well as event spaces and workshop spaces. There are also two link bridges being constructed between the towers at

Google Boland’s Quay campus in Barrow Street, Dublin

As one of Ireland’s longest established companies, we have a proud history of innovative and sustainable growth. We have spent decades working on some of the most cuttingedge renewable energy projects. With our newly formalised Responsible Business Framework, we aim to deliver on our promises of securing a sustainable and brighter future for our clients, our staff and our community.

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levels 4 and 11. In addition, the fit-out includes the provision of gender-neutral toilets within each tower. The project also consists of several retail units, offering the level of fit-out ranging from enhanced grey-box to a CAT-A fit-out. A significant challenge was the coordination between various design teams and client direct consultants. While the same firms were responsible for the overall delivery of the campus, there were separate teams assigned to each element. This meant that there were two architectural teams, two civil / structural teams and two project management teams. On top of this, there was a specialist interior lighting

consultant, a catering consultant and landscape architects appointed as part of the project. The client direct consultants included IT, security and AV consultants.

Robert overcame these challenges by working closely with all the members of the design teams and understanding their individual requirements for the best commercially viable design solution.

Focus Ireland’s head office in Dublin was fully refurbished in July 2021 and included a major strip-out of the existing redundant services along with the new CAT-B fit-out works. The fit-out incorporated modern building services and control systems to provide Focus

Ireland with a highly functional and energy-efficient building.

The entire project was completed on a pro-bono nature by the design team and contractors, with all the necessary materials and fittings either being donated by various suppliers or recycled products from other projects that would otherwise have gone straight to landfill. Functioning as the lead mechanical engineer, a key feature of Robert’s work was the flexible and collaborative approach he took on the project. As it was relying on recycled materials and donations, his design had to be flexible to work with the available components while maintaining a high quality of comfort. He was also very diligent in reviewing the proposed equipment and materials from contractors to ensure that in no way were the functions or efficiency of operations of the M&E systems been compromised by reusing components. The award-winning project achieved a 35% reduction in embedded carbon emissions thanks to the recycled materials and components installed.

Robert is also the lead mechanical engineer and overall project lead for Ethos Engineering on the Google Flour Mills, a 2,300 sq. m. commercial office fit-out of a historic listed building on Barrow Street which is located on the same site as the Boland’s Quay campus but is distinctly separate, with separate design teams and contractors.

With offices in Dublin and Galway, these are exciting times for Ethos Engineering who deliver exceptional service to their clients and their communities.

‘Engineering Wow’, the company has also been nominated for Consultancy of the Year and Engineering Firm of the Year at the 2022 Irish Construction Industry Awards, and was recently named as Best Organisation to Work for and Engineering Practice of the Year at the 2022 Irish Building & Design Awards.

CONTACT DETAILS

Ethos Engineering Ltd Penthouse Suite, Apex Business Centre, Blackthorn Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18

D18 DH76

Telephone: +353 (0)1 293 2220

Email: info@ethoseng.ie

Web: www.ethoseng.ie

DARRA BRIDGE’S MODERN DEVELOPMENTS IN BIG DEMAND

The resplendent Cúirt Na gCloch at Stoney Lane, Ardee, County Louth stands proud a wonderful example of the magnificent, modern developments being consistently delivered by Darra Bridge Housing Ltd. Building Ireland takes a closer look at this superb 14-unit residential development as well as other recently-completed and currently-ongoing Darra Bridge projects.

Darra Bridge Housing have just finished a superb development of 14 highly-efficient, single-storey, two-bedroom houses on the outskirts of Ardee, on a well-appointed historic site at Stoney Lane.

Granted a sympathetic universal design by local architect Shay Duff, Cúirt Na gCloch is a modern, energy-efficient and resident-friendly development based in an ideal setting, offering all the benefits of both urban and rural living.

The new homes, which have been purchased by Louth County Council,

merge seamlessly into the local landscape and have been widely welcomed in these times of urgent housing needs. From his base in Lobinstown, County Meath, Shay Duff was the architect for Cúirt Na gCloch and also for a number of other industry-leading Darra Bridge Housing developments.

“Darra Bridge Housing Ltd. is owned by Sean O’Hagan, who is originally from Tullykeel, Ardee,” Shay reveals. “Sean runs a haulage company in the UK, where he has been based for 30 years, but he also formed Darra Bridge Housing here in Ireland, purchasing

and developing properties to a very high standard before bringing them to the market.”

When we touched base with Shay in early October, construction work at Cúirt Na gCloch had finished literally only days earlier, having commenced in September 2021. “There are 14 units in total – a block of eight, a block of five and one detached unit,” he states. “They are all single-storey, two-bedroom houses and they were given a universal design which makes them suitable for all residents. They are age-friendly, dementia-friendly, wheel-

The homes are A-rated and have individual air-to-water heating systems

chair accessible and are an ideal home for anybody.

“Access to the homes, the window openings, the kitchen lay-outs –everything has been considered in the universal design to ensure that they suit all needs. They come with reinforced ceilings in case hoists are needed for a disabled person and cover the full spectrum of living, be that a family, single-parent family, elderly person or anybody with mobility issues. While the houses were being built, the local authority showed a keen interest and they have agreed to purchase them.”

The location of these homes could not be better. Situated adjacent to Sliabh Breagh housing estate, behind St Marys GAA pitch, off the Dublin Road heading due south out of Ardee, they are close to all the amenities the vibrant mid-Louth town has to offer but the rich

Wee County countryside lies peacefully in the other direction.

“You really do get the best of both worlds,” Shay agrees. “All the benefits of a busy commuter town are within walking distance but as they are located within the urban border you are living in a rural setting.”

Shay designed Cúirt Na gCloch from a site that contained two old pre-existing buildings which had fallen into a state of dilapidation.

These dwellings were demolished and planning permission was secured for 14 new units, which offer all the comforts of modern, energy-efficient living. “The homes are A-rated and have individual air-to-water heating systems and are connected to mains water and mains foul.”

The site was a hive of activity during the construction phase, with a local-

ly-based Darra Bridge Housing foreman

Derek Gillespie (who also handled the groundworks component) overseeing proceedings alongside three other directly-employed staff members and a tried-and-trusted team of subcontracted trades, all of whom delivered exceptional workmanship. Joseph O’Reilly Consulting Engineers have carried out the structural & services design while Aine McCartney was responsible for the surveys and setting out. All in all, the development has been a resounding success:

“There was a lot of interest in it, even before the works started, and lots of enquiries,” Shay continues. “The really encouraging thing is that locally it has been very well received by residents in the area, who were very happy to see that style of development, not least because prior to this there had been

Cúirt Na gCloch at Stoney Lane, Ardee

14 highly-efficient, single-storey, two-bedroom houses

planning granted for a large two-anda-half-storey, over-basement property, which was going to be a lot more conspicuous.

“This is a much more complementary design and the development also tidies up an area which was seeing a lot of antisocial behaviour. The site has been finished to the very highest levels of workmanship, with quality materials, in conjunction with the residents of Sliabh Breagh. Works were completed to their liking. We got their input and there was great community buy-in into the whole project.”

Other developments in the pipeline include a scheme of ten single-storey units (a mix of two- and three-bedroom) in Drumconrath, County Meath and a proposed 20-unit development in Newtown, Creevagh, County Meath, just five minutes from Ardee.

The latter comprises 14 single-storey, two-bedroom retirement homes and six private, two-storey semi-detached houses. Sean also purchases old properties and restores them up to an A energy rating before selling them again.

During the pandemic Sean donated PPE equipment to the value of €25,000 to local Meath councillor Wayne Harding for distribution between the counties of Meath and Louth.

Sean had also donated an interactive multi touch learning table to St. Brigid’s Hospital in Ardee, Co. Louth.

Sean’s goal with any of his projects is to deilver a quality finish in his construction but also ensure that he leaves a positive development that will enhance communities and that can be enjoyed for generations to come.

DARRA BRIDGE HOUSING LTD., Tullykeel, Reaghstown, Ardee, County Louth.

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A DECADE OF CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE FROM EML

Over the past ten years, EML Construction has emerged as an industry-leading general contractor, providing a complete range of commercial and residential building solutions. To find out more, Building Ireland touched base with Roy Clarke, who runs this exceptional, client-focused and multifaceted company alongside business partner Noel Thompson.

Proven professionals in delivering a full array of residential and commercial projects, from bespoke new build homes, extensions and multi-unit housing developments to office, hotel and restaurant fit outs and refurbishments - not forgetting conservation work on listed buildings –EML Construction celebrates the tenth anniversary of its inception this December.

Founded in 2012 by Kildare man Roy Clarke and Antrim native Noel thompson, both of whom boast decades of ex-

perience working literally at the cutting edge of construction across the capital and beyond, EML has since established itself as a commercial and residential general contractor of choice.

Roy attributes the success they have enjoyed over the past decade to the personal touch provided which, coupled with high-quality craftsmanship, results in a steady flow of repeat business and referrals through positive word of mouth:

“We are a relatively small company and

EML Construction celebrates the tenth anniversary of its inception this December

A stunning office refurb at Publicis Dublin

UCD Humanities Building

Bagod Rath, Pembroke Row

we are a human company, who get to know the people we work with.

“We are flexible beyond what might be reasonably expected and we couldn’t be more accommodating. We pride ourselves on working with people, listening to their needs and gearing our resources towards achieving their goals. The client always comes first and we go out of our way to make sure that when we walk away from a building that we leave a happy client behind.”

Further elaborating on the measures that are invariably implemented to ensure absolute customer satisfaction, Roy continues: “Safety is obviously critically important and our No.1 priority is to make sure everybody stays safe on site. After that, when we go into a job, we like to get to know the client, understand what they want and what they need, and use our experience to deliver this.

“Our goal is to provide a first-class service and a first-class product and, wherever possible, to bring the project over the line within budget. But that’s not always possible, particularly where the client makes changes during construction, which will inevitably result in additional costs.

“We strive to provide an end product that the client is happy with and that we are proud of. We can then move on to the next job with a happy client and hopefully a good recommendation. But we’re not out for the recommendation. If you get it, that’s a welcome bonus. The main thing is to have a happy client and move on to the next project and also give it your undivided attention.”

At the heart of Dublin city centre, EML Construction had the privilege of being project managers for Acol Ltd on the iconic Shelbourne Hotel façade restoration project, managing this entire restoration of one of Ireland’s most instantly-recognisable buildings from start to finish, deploying highly skilled craftsmen and meticulous workmanship which has

led to further prestigious restoration projects on historic buildings in the capital. Over 50 traditional craftsmen cleaned and repointed more than 99,000 bricks, and restored and repaired over 300 windows and 500 facade architectural features over a 13-month period between 2015 and 2016.

“On the back of that particular project, we have independently completed other work for The Shelbourne, including a complete revamp and refurbishment of their famous No. 27 Bar & Lounge within a four-week period. We’ve completed various office fit outs across Dublin and have worked quite a bit in UCD.” A number of large scale projects were completed in UCD, including Urban Planning, Humanities, and Virus Reference Laboratory Buildings.

Another notable project was a fourmonth complete refurbishment of Dunne and Crescenzi’s restaurant in Kildare town. For this upgrade, the venue was divided into four quarters and the EML team worked on one quarter at a time during the night, while the popular restaurant remained open and fully functional. Noel and Roy have also carried out refurbs on Dunne and Crescenzi’ other premises in Dublin, their ability to work in live environments without impacting on the day-to-day running of businesses making them an obvious choice for such demanding briefs. Elsewhere, some other projects of note include a major revamp of 76 Merrion Road; the refurb of a four-storey, part residential, part commercial building at 118 Pembroke Road; and a complete gut-out and extension at 5 Pearse Square. “We are working with a select group of architects, who recognise the quality of our work and with whom we have built up long-term relationships,” says Roy.

While the vast majority of our work at present is taking place in the city, EML are by no means limited to any particu-

lar catchment area, as their co-founder and director confirms: “Most of our work is currently in Dublin and that’s largely down to the architects who are recommending us. We generally don’t need to travel far but we are not averse to travelling.

“We’ve worked in Balbriggan, Wexford, Wicklow, and Kildare, but it does seem to be all Dublin for now. We are not limited with regards to where we are prepared to work.”

Direct employment is generated for an in-house team of ten. “It’s a good number to work with,” Roy continues. “We get on well with all the lads and the majority of them have been with us longterm. We looked after them during Covid and we find that when you look after your staff they will return the favour. As well as excellent tradesmen, we have an in-house QS in the office, who is a major asset, while we sub in electricians, plumbers, damp proofers and specialist roofers.”

Roy and Noel have a long history of working together, having also been part of the same company prior to the last economic downturn. “I actually worked for Noel previously and that company came down in the last recession,” recalls Roy, who is a carpenter by trade.

“We are both on tools all the time as well as running the business, and planning for the future. We don’t mind rolling up our sleeves and getting our hands dirty.” Both men possess a real passion for construction and enjoy what they do.

“You are creating something, be it a

EML delivered a four-month complete refurbishment of Dunne and Crescenzi’s restaurant in Kildare town EML Construction has emerged as an industry-leading general contractor, providing a complete range of commercial and residential building solutions

EML Construction Ltd., Briencan, Ballymore Eustace, County Kildare.

house for somebody to live in, an office for people to work in or a restaurant for people to eat in. There is an end product there and you have something to be really proud of at the end of each year. “There will always be problems and challenges to overcome, but that’s part of every project, and construction in general, and you have to be prepared

to deal with whatever issues arise,” Roy concludes. “Most of the time it’s really enjoyable but you definitely need to have passion for it. During the last boom, a lot of people got into construction for the money and they left carnage behind them with shoddy workmanship. As an industry, we can’t let a repeat of that happen.

“We believe in doing something once and doing it right. We get a lot of work from word of mouth and referrals from both clients and architects. That’s the best advertising of all and it proves that we are providing a quality product and a quality service.”

No.27 Bar and Lounge - Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin

Restoration works Blackrock

FULLY-FOCUSED CONSTRUCTION DELIVERY GUARANTEED WITH KELLMAN

Mayo-based Kellman Developments Ltd. consistently delivers a wide array of high-quality private and public construction projects that invariably meet or exceed client expectations. We headed to Ballinrobe and sat down with hands-on founder / managing director Cathal Kelly to find out more about this industry-leading general contracting company.

Over the past twelve years and counting, Kellman Developments has forged a stellar reputation as one of the most professional building contractors in the west of Ireland, having successfully completed a comprehensive range of residential

and commercial construction projects to the highest possible standards of excellence, always maintaining a strong line of communication with the client to ensure total customer satisfaction every time.

With the focus very much on outstanding workmanship and enduring

relationships, Kellman has the capacity to take on and successfully deliver all project types from bespoke new build homes, multi-unit developments and Commercial Projects of varying sizes and complexity.

Kellman Developments provide a complete service in-house, from initial

Ballyvary National School

groundworks on a greenfield site through to Handover.

“In the past, we were depending on subcontractors for our civils packages, and it just wasn’t working out. The difficulty was trying to coordinate the logistics of getting machine drivers and groundworkers to site as per programme. This constant battle can throw your programme of works off, resulting in delays and extra costs. It was hard work trying to keep on top of this, so we made the commercial decision of investing in our own Plant & Machinery. This has given us complete control over the Civils on all our projects enabling us to programme our works with greater clarity resulting in time and cost savings for us and our clients.

Today, Kellman Developments own and operate plant & machinery including a fleet of company vans, 13-tonne track machines ,8-tonne, 5-tonne and 3-tonne excavators, teleporters, road sweepers and assorted tractors, low loaders and dumpers along with this Kellman Developments generates full time direct employment for 20 staff, including an in-house crew of skilled experienced carpenters, joiners , Concreters, ground workers and painters & decoratorsplus the same again in subcontractors.

Cathal established the company in 2006 and expanded into general contracting in 2010, having previously worked as a block layer. “I had worked as a block layer prior to ’06 and that’s what I focussed on up until 2010, when I started doing private residential work,” he recalls. “A friend asked me to look

after a house he was building, and the general contracting just grew naturally from there.

“At one point I was building houses and had block laying gangs on the go at the same time and it got to the stage where I had to choose between one or the other as I couldn’t keep both going. I decided to go down the building road and a couple of the lads who were working with me set up as block laying contractors. It worked out well as those lads are still subbies with me to this day.”

By listening closely to client needs, Cathal can give them an end product that meets their expectation. “We have a very good reputation thankfully and benefit from very favourable word of mouth. A lot of our work has come through repeat business and referrals. There were many years there where I didn’t advertise at all. It’s only in the last three years or so, as we’ve grown more into the public sector side of things, that I’ve branded the vans.”

The way the business has evolved, Kellman has a nice balance of work at present, split almost 50:50 between private and public Works projects. In terms of public works, predominantly covering education and healthcare for the time being, they are also on the framework for the Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB), An Post, Mayo County Council and have carried out work for Mayo County, Sligo County Council, NUI, GMIT, Local Health Authorities and RehabCare.

Cathal estimates that at the time of

writing he has a good 18 months of work ahead of him. “I have seven new houses waiting to start but am trying to finish anything that’s close to completion before I Commence new projects. Now, we’re about to site set-up at St Michael’s Special Needs National School in Castlerea. This is a four-classroom extension which includes a very large ESB Diversion, muck shift and civils package.”

While many builders are reluctant to book in work at present due to the volatility and uncertainty in the economy, Cathal is acutely cognisant of the fact that he has a team of men and women depending on him to generate work: “As I have such a big crew, I have to keep taking on work,” he reveals. “I’ve spent twelve years trying to pull together a crew of top-class tradesmen and I handpicked them all myself. The last thing you want to do is leave anybody at home. Look, it’s a constant battle but this is what I want to be doing. I’m lucky to have very loyal staff. I’m also lucky to have a very good QS in the office, and they are very difficult to get. As well as that, I have an excellent accounts manager and admin staff who are also experienced in HR, which again is a massive asset to the business.”

Any client of Kellman Developments can rest assured that they will receive a personal touch from Cathal Kelly, who can bring great experience and guidance to bear on any project and is also not shy in sharing his opinion. “I definitely wouldn’t be one to hold back if I felt something was being done wrong

Delivering a wide array of high-quality private and public construction projects

Gortskehy NS Astro Turf Pitch

or could potentially be done better,” he concedes.

“If I believe something isn’t right I don’t mind saying it in front of the client or the design team. I will give my honest opinion as a builder and will talk to people I’ll always provide them with any

knowledge and advice I can.

“We also do cost exercises on behalf of the client, locating where there is value engineering to be had on projects. This entails meeting with the client and discussing where from our experience we see value and savings. The result

of these exercises makes the project more affordable and feasible, which is obviously in everybody’s best interest.”

Going forward, Kellman Developments will continue to focus on delivering value-added construction solutions without ever compromising on quality

St Joseph’s Multi Sensory Room

Sligo Fire Station drill tower restoration works

Robeen national School

Best Wishes and Continued Success to KELLMAN DEVELOPMENTS

DOOLEY STEEL LTD

Steel Fabrication | Steel Erecting

Cladding | Mobile Welding

CNC Plasma Cutting | Structural Steel

By all accounts, Kellman Developments have proven time and again that they possess the manpower, experience and means to complete any building project, large or small, from start to finish and to the most exacting standards and with an impressive order book in front of them are obviously a builder in high demand.

Muckrush, Annaghdown, Co. Galway 087 632 7589 | dooleysteel@gmail.com

CONTACT DETAILS Kellman Developments Ltd., Annfield, Hollymount, County Mayo. Tel: 087 6509808 Email: kellmandevelopments@ gmail.com

Best Wishes and Continued Success to KELLMAN DEVELOPMENTS

DOOLEY STEEL LTD

Steel Fabrication | Steel Erecting Cladding | Mobile Welding

CNC Plasma Cutting | Structural Steel

Muckrush, Annaghdown, Co. Galway 087 632 7589 | dooleysteel@gmail.com

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Kellman Developments

Best Wishes to Kellman Developments Ltd

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Kellman Developments Ltd

Best Wishes and Continued Success to McNamara Construction

Best Wishes and Continued Success to McNamara Construction

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

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087 679 6509

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Mobile: 087 - 276 5482

Email: christycolemanhaulageltd@gmail.com

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to McNamara 087 679 6509

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Best Wishes and Continued Success to Kellman Developments Ltd

An extension at Gortskehy National School

POWERTECH’S INDUSTRIAL REFRIGERATION EXPERTISE ACKNOWLEDGED

Powertech Refrigeration’s status as one of Ireland’s premier industrial refrigeration specialists was underlined at the 2022 Institute of Refrigeration Ireland (IRI) Awards, where they were Highly Commended in the Project Innovation category for the successful delivery of a state-of-the-art refrigeration system upgrade at Lakeland Dairies.

Proven market leaders in all types of industrial refrigeration and air conditioning

Established in County Armagh by managing director David Smyth and business partner Mervyn Hanna in 2004, Powertech Refrigeration provide a dedicated professional service offering specialist industrial refrigeration to businesses across Ireland, the UK and the international market. Priding themselves on providing high-

quality turnkey developments to service various sectors of the refrigeration industry - and specialising in ammonia and chilled water systems – Powertech Refrigeration have successfully delivered solutions within the dairy, meat, fruit & veg ripening, food processing and pharmaceutical sectors amongst others. Proven market leaders in all types of industrial refrigeration and air

All engineers are fully trained and certified to work on Ammonia, HCFC, HFC and Co2 refrigeration systems

conditioning, Powertech have undertaken the design and installation of a wide range of industrial refrigeration projects, using ammonia and pumped liquid C02 refrigerants, throughout Ireland, the UK, Belgium, Germany and China.

Stuart Gwynne was Project Manager for the new refrigeration system at

Lakeland Dairies, for which Powertech Refrigeration caught the attention of the judges at this year’s prestigious IRI Awards. As PM, Stuart – who has been part of the Powertech team since the company’s genesis 18 years ago – was involved in every phase of this award-winning project from presentation and design through to installation,

Best Wishes and Continued Success to Powertech Refrigeration Ltd

commissioning and handover.

“Although it’s not something we specifically set out to achieve, going forward I think it is important for the company to pick up industry awards. Myself and David go back a long way together in the industry as he previously worked for many years for Cross Refrigeration, where I was his junior in the office.

“It’s really encouraging now, after all his investment into Powertech Refrigeration, having started a new business from scratch, that Powertech is being seen as a competent industrial refrigeration company.

“Following on from our success at the Institute of Refrigeration Ireland Awards, I would be keen now to follow up on this and get some more. It’s great for the morale of the team to receive this recognition for their efforts and it’s great for the engineers who are at the coalface to know that they are working on industry-leading projects that are worthy of awards and recognition.”

For the project in question, Powertech Refrigeration were approached by Lakeland Dairies to design and install an ammonia refrigeration system that would utilise existing plant, bringing

Advanced Engineering Group Ltd with its specialist departments Advanced Cabling Contractors and Advanced Pipe Welding & Fabrication cover a vast range of disciplines throughout Ireland & UK. Our team are experts in Stainless Steel Fabrication, Process & Gas Pipe, Steam & Pressurized Piping Systems, Structural Steel Fabrication, Aluminium Welding, and General Engineering. We have a team of professionals who can deliver projects from Electrical, Mechanical, Fabrication, Design and Civil through to final handover and commissioning on sectors including Government, Food Process, Pharmaceutical, Data Centres, Wind Farms, Renewables, Incinerators, Power Stations, and Commercial Projects.

-70 °C Cold Room

stability and reliability to this whilst extending the duty of the overall system by adding addition capacity. The existing system comprised of a pair of ammonia reciprocating Sabroe compressors in line with a common submerged evaporator in an elevated bath with a metered liquid ammonia supply from a pair of Hanson floats having the ammonia condensed with the use of a pair of BAC evaporative condensers sized to each reciprocating compressor.

The chilled water, no glycol and not brine, was then pumped from a gravity fed fixed speed pump set to production and then returned to the open tank again. The system, but especially the open tank (bath) containing the submerged evaporators, was at the point of change over 30 years old.

The initial design from concept put to Powertech was for a traditional pumped ammonia system, utilising a surge drum and liquid receiver with new condenser, to a plate heat exchanger, marrying

CONTACT DETAILS

Powertech Refrigeration Ltd., 94A Gosford Road, Markethill, County Armagh.

Tel: +44 28 3755 2792

Email: info@powertechref.com

Web: powertechrefrigeration.com

the existing compressors with new compressors and then chilling a body of water in a new insulated tank, which would be pumped to production from holding and then returned to the tank. While this proposal was acceptable from a refrigeration and engineering perspective, from a risk, commercial, efficiency and environmental standpoint it left great opportunity to value engineer this delivery.

Powertech came up with numerous ways of adding value to the project and these were all agreed to by the client and incorporated into the final design. From an environmental and safety management perspective, the amount of refrigerant in the system was reduced by changing from a pumped ammonia system to a critically charged ammonia system, while risk was reduced by adding redundance of equipment, changing from a large plate heat exchanger and utilising alternative heat exchange equipment (in this case, the Vahterus shell and plate exchanger).

The opportunity was seized to use a de-super heater arrangement on the common ammonia discharge to preheat water going to the boilers of another system within the facility, adding efficiency to the refrigeration system by not needing to run the condenser at peak load but also using less fossil fuel at the boiler to create the same amount of heat required for its production needs. The client was encouraged to consider and allow the upcycling of a pre-existing tank to be utilised for water storage for the project. Again this lowered the environmental impact as the embedded carbon of new stainless steel and insulation was eliminated. Funds saved were re-assigned to optimise other parts of the project.

A smart variable speed pump set from KBS was used to optimise the pumped water efficiency as well as cycling the lead and follower pumps to add longevity and control to the physical pumps and

system, allowing high tolerances of control to be implemented directly to the water chilling process without freezing up of the ammonia/water exchanging system.

Siemens control of the entire system was implemented with in-house logic and programming to monitor and control the delivery of the chilled water to the working environment. This was favourable to the customer as it aligned with the ICT standardisation of their business.

The availability of space on site was at a premium and the ability to use an air (adiabatic) cooled condenser could not be accommodated. The next best option was to use a common evaporative condenser for the Total Heat Reject and oil cooling of the compressors, this coupled with floating head pressure control left for a robust tried and tested solution.

Optimising on-site installation time and minimising disturbance to the customer, most of the pipework and bracketry was formed off site and then delivered to site for installation.

After these – and other - design changes had been agreed and implemented into the design, the final part of the process was to coordinate and deliver the project. This was achieved by Powertech’s highly-skilled and dedicated delivery specialists, from design and project management, upholding best practises of EN378 in relation to refrigeration but also Health and Safety, as well as best practises of international project management ANSI/PMI 99-001 through to commissioning and maintenance teams, combining their knowledge and skill of each component of the system as well as their knowledge of integration into a highly efficient system which had low electrical consumption with high refrigeration yield coupled with close control and reliability for the end user for now and for years to come.

The system ran flawlessly with water delivered at desired temperature and little to no variation or risk of freeze up due to the system control and noted by customer a decrease in power consumption, but a higher more reliable production yield was attached. The customer’s interaction with the system was simplified and streamlined from control (Production) and monitoring (BMS) perspective; also observed was a time decrease in system start up, and the close pressure control given by the inverter driven water supply pumps regardless of demand.

The customer has reported a dramatic reduction in site attendance by refrigeration engineers at peak times of the year to safeguard production, concluding that the proposed design did deliver and de-risk production with the delivery cost and time being confirmed and held from the moment of concept to final handover and beyond.

“The company has grown from humble beginnings 18 years ago to establish ourselves as a leading industrial and commercial refrigeration specialist,” Stuart continues. “There is still room to grow the business further. We currently have a close-knit and elite team of eight engineers and six office-based personnel, the majority of whom are technically-orientated.

“We’re lucky to have a very strong team. Our engineers are knowledgeable and they have bought into David’s vision for the company and they are all pulling in the same direction.”

Regarding the Lakeland Dairies project, the award-winning PM adds: “It was a pre-Covid job and a time-sensitive one as it had to be up and running again quickly before the milk came back on line. As part of the work, we also had to take away the old existing system, which was 45 years old; dismantling that and disposing of it safely was a challenge in itself.

“Their pre-existing system was very old and inefficient and they needed more refrigeration capacity for the future and they were keen for us to find as many efficiencies as possible, which we did right across every aspect of the upgrade. We’ve actually been back on that site since and upgraded the system with a new condenser, adding even

greater efficiency.”

As an independent company, Powertech Refrigeration source and distribute equipment tailored to the client’s needs and specification. They are distributors in Ireland for Aermec air conditioning systems and water chillers, who have been leading market providers in the air conditioning industry for over 50 years. From start to finish, Powertech Refrigeration’s highly qualified and experienced engineers – who are fully trained and certified to work on ammonia, HCFC, HFC and CO2 refrigeration systems - ensure that every project is delivered on time, to specification, within budget and with a complete technical handover and supporting documentation.

At the time of writing, Powertech had just finished a large 110m x 20m x 10m high chilled water system for Musgraves in Blanchardstown, with a twelve-metre modular section of pipework which significantly reduced installation time spent on site.

“As well as refrigeration, we’re moving more into process and process control, which is an area where we have identified great opportunities,” Stuart concludes. “Key to that is the emphasis on saving energy and the requirement that a system only uses the energy it needs. That’s going to be a big thing going forward with chilled water, especially with the price of electricity.

“We have to keep a very close eye on tapping into any efficiencies we can find for our customers. You measure this across the lifetime of a system, so you are not just thinking about the cost of installation but also how much the system is going to cost in the long term.”

Delivering solutions within the dairy, meat, fruit and veg ripening, food processing and pharmaceutical sectors

THE COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES PARTNER

Based in Carrigaline, County Cork, Murphy Building & Civil Contractors is a forward-thinking construction company with an unrivalled track record in successfully delivering industry-leading projects across all sectors. Building Ireland spoke to proprietor Peter Murphy to find out more about the comprehensive range of services provided – from new builds and extensions to sportsgrounds and civil works.

Murphy Building & Civil Contractors is a forward-thinking construction company with an unrivalled track record

Specialists in high quality new builds, extensions, remodelling projects and a full spectrum of civil works, Murphy Building & Civil Contractors is a family-run contracting company that can see a wide range of construction projects through from start to finish.

Established four decades ago, the company has grown in both size and reputation on the back of combining the best people, the best knowledge set, the latest technology and sustainability measures and an unwavering commitment to safety.

Murphy Building & Civil Contractors boasts a broad portfolio of successfully completed construction projects across a wide array of sectors including residential, restoration, refurbishment, commercial and agricultural. As proven professionals in both construction and civils, their ability to see all projects through from site clearance culminating in a complete turnkey solution sets them apart as a one-stop shop for residential, commercial, sports and agri construction projects large and small across Cork, Munster and sometimes further afield.

“We have two business, which overlap – the original plant hire company, which goes back to the 1970s, and the building company, which has been going since 1992,” reveals hands-on director Peter Murphy. “We amalgamated the two businesses a few years back to form Murphy Building & Civil Contractors.”

In the case of Murphy Building & Civil Contractors, to point out that they offer a wide range of services is an exercise in understatement as they can literally do everything and anything constructionand / or civils-related from their wellappointed base in Carrigaline.

“It can vary from high-end one-off houses to civil works, GAA, soccer and rugby sports pitches, horse arenas and golf clubs, and we also do a lot of work for farmers on roadways, digging out tanks, drainage and cattle underpasses. As there is such an overlap between the construction and civils, it made sense to bring them together to offer an all-in service.

“For example, if we are doing a new build home, we can offer our clients a complete service in-house from start to finish, from the initial site clearance through construction and then landscaping, drainage and patios, etc. We have all the equipment on the plant side of the business that’s needed in building, so the two co-exist. There was no masterplan really to provide a complete service but we have the expertise, experience, equipment and manpower so it is a logical development.” Murphy Building & Civil Contractors offer the full scope of civil engineering services, including mass concrete / gabion retaining walls; commercial and domestic drainage; site improvements; managing civil works for new commercial builds; and road restoration works. Peter has built lasting working relationships with many local developers, including Stephen McCarthy of Astra Construction (for whom he is currently assisting with site clearance work on a 1,000-unit housing development in Carrigaline called Janeville) and Ruden Homes, who are also headquartered in Carrigaline.

Indeed, Ruden Homes is Murphy Building & Civil Contractors biggest customer on the plant hire / civils end: “We have two loadalls with them full time and we do a lot of mulching and tree felling. We have all the attachments

we need for that work and have cleared five or six large sites for them already this year so that they could get their surveyor in. Mulching is the best way to clear a site. It’s very sustainable and has minimal environmental impact.

“We also crush concrete with crushing buckets and our aim is to deal with everything on site as much as possible to minimise the amount of waste leaving the site. That’s the way things have gone. The industry has gone very green and everybody is working as sustainably as possible. We are conscious of doing things in the most sustainable way and always try to work as conscientiously as we can.”

As clubs around the provinces benefit annually from Sports Capital Grant windfalls, Peter and his team pick up a conservable amount of sports pitch development work. “We’re doing two new juvenile pitches for Carrigaline GAA at the moment and we also work regularly with Premier Sports in Tipperary. In conjunction with them, we’re doing a pitch for Ringmahon Rangers soccer club here in Cork and we’re also going to the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick, where the pitch is being

“If we are doing a new build home, we can offer a complete service in-house from start to finish, from the initial site clearance through construction and then landscaping, drainage and patios.”

resurfaced.

“We have a laser grader which can level the pitch down to the last millimetre using GPS before the 5G carpet is laid. Carrigaline Soccer Club also resurfaced their second pitch, which also had to be done very precisely to meet the conditions of their grant. Not everybody has that laser equipment and we travel the country with it. We’ve also done pitches in Clare, Limerick and Westmeath recently, so we’re busy in that side of the business.”

Great equipment and great people are at the heart of everything Murphy Building & Civil Contractors do. “We have six guys employed directly on the

plant side and they are all fully trained up,” continues Peter, whose late father Peter Snr. founded the family business. “Anybody can buy an excavator but you can’t buy the guys driving them. They have vast experience and know the job inside out, which gives us the edge.

“We have the same guys on all the machines. They have all the necessary tickets and each of them can operate a wide range of excavators, bobcats, lowloaders, loadalls and lorries.”

On the construction side of things, meanwhile, Murphy Building & Civil Contractors have an enviable track record in completing a steady volume of stunning, high-end homes throughout

Best Wishes to Murphy Building & Civil Contractors

the Rebel County. “We take on four or five new builds per year and they would be high-end homes, completed to the highest standards. We can do everything in-house from site clearance to landscaping.

“At the moment, we’re working on two fantastic one off homes in Carrigaline and we’re also doing a domestic renovation with a very high-end finish in the city,” the personable Cork contractor concludes. “We’re also at Monkstown Golf Club working on their new driving range, having previously put in a new buggy bay for them. We’re busy on a good variety of projects, but there is absolute carry-over between all the work we do.”

Best Wishes to Murphy Building & Civil Contractors

CORK FIBREGLASS LTD

Flat Roof Specialists

Farry Construction provides a full range of construction services to an evergrowing list of satisfied customers across counties Fermanagh and Tyrone

Farry Construction has the equipment, experience and manpower to offer a complete construction service

Farry Construction

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP ASSURED WITH FARRY CONSTRUCTION

With the emphasis very much on attention to detail and outstanding workmanship, Farry Construction provides a full range of construction services to an ever-growing list of satisfied customers across counties Fermanagh and Tyrone. We travelled to Tempo and touched base with proprietor Stephen Farry to discuss the success and ethos of his highly-regarded general contracting company.

Renowned for invariably delivering quality buildings to absolute client satisfaction, Farry Construction boasts an excellent track record across a wide spectrum of project-specific construction activities including new builds, extensions, refurbishments, conservation, roofing, joinery work, kitchens and bathrooms, building repairs and upgrades, attic conversions, groundworks and much,

much more.

Owner Stephen Farry has been working full time in construction for coming up on a quarter of a century and is pleased to

CONTACT DETAILS

Farry Construction, 86 Tullyreagh Road, Tempo, County Fermanagh.

Tel: +44 7715 147071

Email: stephen.farry@btinternet. com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ FarryConstruction

Invariably delivering quality buildings to absolute client satisfaction

Stephen Farry is very much the archetypal hands-on director

report that business is brisk at present, with the order book looking particularly healthy, albeit in a somewhat volatile environment: “We’ve plenty of work on at the moment and more scheduled in for next year, so we can’t complain,” the amiable Fermanagh contractor notes.

“Everybody’s gripe at the moment is raw materials. We were hoping things would settle down a bit after Covid, but it’s still every bit as bad in some respects. However, it hasn’t really affected people’s desire to get work done. The demand for construction is still there, so you have to find ways to get the work done.”

Stephen inherited his love of all things construction from his late father, who was involved in the industry from the 1970s onwards. After obtaining a Degree in Construction Engineering & Management, he started working full time alongside his father in 1998 and has never looked back.

A joiner by trade, he is very much the archetypal hands-on director, skilled and competent in most facets of construction

and is on site from initial groundworks through to the handing over of keys.

“I have my own joinery workshop and can take on small kitchens and outdoor

frames. This works well when things are quiet as there’s always something to do. When the last recession hit, we were fitting a lot of stoves, bathrooms

Stunning new house in Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh

Specialists in new builds, extensions, refurbishments, conservation and roofing works

Church extension

532

Rebuilding existing stonework

and kitchens. We can turn our hand to anything at all.

“General construction is back in a big way now and we’ve been lucky enough to have a very good run of larger, bespoke new builds. We’re getting a lot of those and we always seem to have one finishing, another one halfway through and a new one starting. We’ve also taken on a lot of domestic extensions and refurbs over the last couple of years, so we are being kept going.”

Stephen also does some commercial works, including retail refurbs, car park

extensions, etc., and carries out insurance work for AXA covering Fermanagh and South Tyrone repairing buildings after water or fire damage. As is often the case in construction, the business is sustained largely by repeat custom and positive referrals through word of mouth.

“A lot of my work is for repeat clients and I often find myself going back doing work for my dad’s clients from 20 years ago, or their children,” confirms Stephen, whose two sons help out during the summer months. Both are currently at college and are considering careers in construction.

Elsewhere, in addition to Stephen, Farry Construction generates steady employment for a crew of five, two of whom are directly employed. At peak times, including subcontractors, there could be up to ten or twelve men on site.

Farry Construction recently completed a magnificent restoration of a listed building in Clogher including structural repairs and a new roof as well as a new home in Ballinamallard, while Stephen is currently landscaping around a striking 4,500 sq ft new build Georgian style home in Enniskillen as well as working on another Georgian style new house in Fivemiletown.

Mixing the old with the new, another current project comprises the incorporation of a two-storey modern extension onto a traditional-style home in Tamlaght, three miles from Enniskillen. “I’m also doing some work for a local architect in Enniskillen, who is building an annex onto

his home for his parents to live in.”

The Tempo general contractor enjoys excellent working relationships with a number of architects, including Chris Allen Architects, Studio44 and OJQ Architecture. Wherever possible, he likes to start collaborating with the architect as early in the formative stages of the project as possible.

“I like to catch them early and negotiate the contracts with my input and way of thinking,” he states. “I’m booked up for six-twelve months now and have been dealing with a couple of architects for the past two or three years. I like to get involved early and give cost advice. I can tidy up the price once the drawings are done up and give a start date.

“It’s much better to be involved early rather than to be invited in late on for a house that is ready to start, which I simply can’t do. This way I know where my workload is going to be, I can negotiate it better and the client is getting a start date booked in with no issues or delays.”

Stephen already has three projects booked in for 2023 – two new builds and an extension, all of which will be given his full, undivided attention, as has always been the way with Farry Construction, who consistently complete high-quality buildings to budget and on time.

“When the time comes, I will look after them fully,” he concludes. “We have always looked after people and that’s how we keep getting work.”

A TRADITION OF QUALITY AND VALUE

From new builds, extensions and renovations to loft conversions, kitchens, bathrooms and carpentry work, Mullen and Sons Ltd. delivers a complete range of industry-leading construction solutions. Building Ireland travelled to the scenic east coast village of Laytown and met proprietor Alan Mullen to find out more.

experience working on building sites nationwide. Like his father Tony before him, Alan is a brick layer by trade and by incorporating all the latest building methods he prides himself on invariably delivering high-quality, value-added solutions on projects large and small, always with a keen eye on the latest architectural styles.

Specialising in residential and commercial new builds, renewable energy solutions, heat pumps, solar PV, underfloor heating and home extensions, renovations and conversions, Mullen & Sons is an exceptional, client-focused building contracting company operating out of Laytown in County Meath.

The company is fronted by Alan Mullen – a fifth-generation construction professional with over 30 years’

One thing that’s guaranteed on every Mullen and Sons project – be it a new build, small upgrade or the painstaking conservational transformation of a centuries-old building – is that the end product will both look fantastic and perform to the most modern energy efficiencies.

Whether he’s constructing a high-end new home or breathing new life into a heritage building, Alan affords every project the utmost care and attention to

detail.

A hands-on contractor who believes in spending as much time as possible on site, he makes a point of keeping lines of communication with clients open throughout the duration of the works: “I’m up front and keep in regular touch with the client,” he confirms. “It’s their home at the end of the day and you can’t not be there for them.

“It’s important to listen to the client and also to explain and express yourself properly at all times, and to do so in a timely and mannerly way. Essentially, you are there to make it as easy as you can for the client. To understand that it’s their home and, once they understand the process and understand what’s going on, everything will generally work out well.”

It goes almost without saying that word

Mullen and Sons Ltd. delivers a complete range of industryleading construction solutions

Mullen and Sons is an exceptional, client-focussed building contracting company

of mouth and reputation are everything in construction. “We’ve been in business in this area for a long time now and we get a lot more work out of word of mouth and referrals than we do from advertising. Most of our work tends to be in the locality and people get to know you when you are part of a small community.

“If you consistently work to a high level and keep clients happy, then you will reap what you sow, whereas if you did something wrong in the area or let somebody down, it wouldn’t be long getting around. So there’s no option other than delivering high-quality workmanship each and every time.”

Fully insured and Fully-compliant with all building regulations, the National Guild of Master Craftsmen, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland (RECI) and Safe Electric, Mullen and Sons are new build and home extension professionals, who specialise in traditional wood frame building methods, but are also market leaders

in Insulated Concrete Formwork [ICF] construction.

Alan and his team have the capacity to take on any project type and as such Mullen and Sons is a one-stop shop for all construction needs. “We do everything. We have our own engineer and can also recommend architects, with whom we work closely. We’ll involve the client with the engineer and the architect to make sure everybody is on the same page. We know our job well and can sit down with people and draw up plans if needed. All of our jobs are signed off by engineers, which gives the client complete peace of mind.

“At the moment, the majority of our work is loft conversions, home extensions / renovations and building restorations – a lot of work on upgrading existing buildings. Myself and my dad built a lot of housing estates in Dublin and did a lot of new houses in Ratoath as well. We’ve done some lovely new builds here as well, but they are few and far between these days for a variety of reasons.

“We try to stick to local work as much as

CONTACT DETAILS

Mullen and Sons Ltd., Laytown, County Meath. Tel: 086 1733396

Email: mullenandsons1@gmail.com

Web: mullenandsons.ie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ mullenandsons

possible and are lucky that there’s a lot of renovations and upgrades going on in the area. I’m also getting more involved in deep retrofits, which is a relatively new market and one where there are opportunities for a quality contractor. We’ve done a lot of underfloor heating, heat pumps, solar PVs and intergas boilers and that’s an area we can definitely expand into.”

Following in a long line of builders, Alan has been working on building sites since he was a young teenager. “I’ve been at it since I was 14. We did a lot of stonework initially and that’s where it comes from. That’s what got us into building. I can trace back through the generations to my grandfather’s grandfather, who was one of the foremen on the construction of the Rotunda. They wore bowler hats on site back in those days – Health & Safety wasn’t what it is today!”

Construction is in the Mullen DNA. All Alan’s uncles are tradesmen, be it plumbers, electricians or brick layers. One uncle, Brian, is even his plumbing subcontractor. Meanwhile, son Adam is also currently learning his trade and following in the proud family tradition.

One thing that’s guaranteed on every Mullen and Sons project is that the end product will both look fantastic and perform to the most modern energy efficiencies

Dun Laoghaire Golf Club

Alan employs six men directly and everything else is taken care of by a tried-and-trusted team of regular subbies. “We use all skilled and experienced local lads, covering North Dublin, East Meath and East Louth.” Quality is a given with every Mullen and Sons project. “The lads are all highly skilled and the finish is very important to us. The client has to be satisfied,” Alan concludes. “We have a sign-off sheet at the end of every job and the client will only sign it if he is satisfied All the work is fully certified.

“Construction costs are going through the roof and the new 10% levy on concrete is a joke because it’s the construction industry that keeps everything going and they are only shooting themselves in the foot - and shooting us in the foot. When we price a job, we break everything down so that the client can see clearly what the various costs are – labour, subcontractors and materials. That gives them peace of mind and clarity and they can rest assured that everything is above board with no hidden extras.”

conversion in Grange Rath, Drogheda

Best Wishes to Alan Mullen & Sons

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to Alan Mullen

SUIR ENGINEERING ACQUIRED BY PRIVATE EQUITY GROUP DUKE STREET

It’s been announced that Suir Engineering, one of the country’s leading providers of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation engineering services, is to be acquired by private equity group Duke Street. Suir, which employs 1,300 people and is headquartered in Waterford was a jointly owned subsidiary of Dalkia and EDF Energy.

The company said the transaction, which includes investment by the senior management team, will enable it to enhance the services it offers to clients, while operations will continue as normal from its main base in Waterford and its other offices in Dublin, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Frankfurt.

Suir, which has nearly four decades of engineering expertise in its core sectors of Pharma, Energy & Utilities, Food & Beverage and Data Centres, has an annual turnover of around

€300m.

The completion of the transaction remains subject to obtaining applicable regulatory approvals.

Duke Street, one of Britain’s best known private equity groups, has a strong track record of investing in industrial service companies. Over the last 25 years it has invested over €2.5bn in more than 50 companies, achieving investment returns in excess of 25% over that period.

Paul Adams, Partner at Duke Street, said Suir’s reputation as a provider of innovative engineering solutions on projects across Europe was second to none.

“We are delighted to acquire Suir Engineering, a market-leading business that is a great fit for our investment program. The Duke Street team has previous successful experience in industrial services as well as Suir’s underlying sectors. The company has a highly skilled workforce, an extremely strong safety record and a healthy pipeline of projects across Europe in all of its highly attractive end-sectors. We have been impressed with Suir’s growth

strategy and we look forward to actively supporting the existing management team in delivering their ambitious plans.”

Michael Kennedy, Managing Director, Suir Engineering, said he believed the partnership with Duke Street would be transformative for the company, enabling it to grow steadily while continuing to provide the best service possible to its Irish and international clients.

“We at Suir are looking forward to partnering with Duke Street who share our vision, values, and ambition. Together, we will accelerate Suir’s growth by investing in people and expanding the business proposition to include more international work in key client sectors such as technology, renewables, and life sciences. We believe this will consolidate our position as a leader in the provision of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation engineering services that are expertly delivered by our very experienced team.”

Best Wishes and Continued Success to McMullan O’Donnell

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