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â&#x20AC;˘82584 PhilipLee Advert Public Sector A4 FA.indd 1

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the magazine for public sector providers & decision makers

the m

AWARDS ISSUE 2014 Ireland’s dedicated magazine for the Public Sector, Semi-State Bodies and Civil Servants

Public Sector Magazine

The recognition of peers is important in any sector but for one as vital as the Irish Public Sector, every accolade adds to a brand’s credibility. Corporate awards enhance a company’s reputation, help employees take pride in their work and instil confidence in customers about the quality and professionalism of an organisation. An award by any measure is a sign of excellence. This Awards publication recognises excellence in key providers to the Irish Public Sector acknowledging the professionalism of companies that excel in what they do.

2014 Editor: Trish Phelan trish@devlinmedia.org Design: One Little Studio www.onelittlestudio.com A Devlin Media Publication Tel: 01 8053944

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where we have always put your customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience

Outright winner for Excellence in Managed Business Solutions & Outsourcing within the Public Sector.

Public Sector Magazine

With over 2 million contacts handled from our 3 Irish service centres, FEXCO is recognised as a valued partner in the provision of end-to-end managed business solutions across a broad range of sectors, including government and public services.

T:066 979 2710 or email us at mbso@fexco.com

www.fexco.com

FEXCO A4 ADVERTS CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE.pdf 1

13/11/2014 12:56

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN MANAGED BUSINESS SOLUTIONS & OUTSOURCING WITHIN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

FEXCO Established in Ireland in 1981, FEXCO is Ireland’s most successful multinational ﬁnancial and business solutions provider, with operations in 28 countries worldwide. FEXCO provides an innovative partnership approach where teamwork, integrity, trust and diversity is at the heart of everything that they do.

Creighton continues; “The Public Sector has been and still is, a very important market for FEXCO. We work with leading public sector bodies and, this year, we have been shortlisted for the CCMA best outsourcing partnership award with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).” FEXCO established its MBSO division in order to partner with new and existing customers to outsource key elements of their operations which require specific expertise in the areas of multi-channel contact centre services, claims and grant processing and anti-money laundering solutions as part of a full end-to-end managed business solution. The company recently achieved Call Centre Accreditation Level 5, putting it in the top 1% of all UK and Ireland BPO providers. “Organisations we work with recognise that we have the experience, knowledge, expertise and skilled workforce to engage with their customers and deliver best practice solutions to drive their revenue and grow their business,” explains Creighton. “We currently partner with organisations in the financial, insurance, education, energy, tourism and healthcare sectors, as well as several government departments and agencies, all of whom recognise the value in outsourcing services to FEXCO as our values of teamwork, integrity and trust, diversity and innovative partnerships are the guiding principles which shape our behaviours and actions.”

12:56

He concludes, “Winning the Public Sector Award is

a significant achievement for FEXCO. It recognises our success to date in delivering a first class service to our clients in the public sector. Looking to the future, we will continue to innovate and develop solutions for new and existing clients.” www.fexco.com

Public Sector Magazine

Speaking about what the award means to FEXCO, Denis Creighton, CEO of its Managed Business Solutions and Outsourcing (MBSO) division said: “I would like to thank our dedicated employees who have been instrumental in the success of our MBSO division over the last number of years, working hard to ensure that the voice of our customer is at the heart of our operations and drives our business. Our objective was to provide a structured and collaborative approach to outsourcing, which has now been formally recognised.”

Public Sector Magazine 8

Michael Cronin, Managing Director, opensky Data Systems

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT AT OPENSKY opensky Data Systems celebrates its tenth birthday this year and there is much to celebrate. With a healthy growth rate of 100%, the company is focusing on new international markets while remaining ﬁrmly committed to Irish & UK public sector clients. “Here at opensky, we invest time in understanding the citizen centred strategic vision of our public sector clients before we look at building technology in partnership with client teams. This is a major factor in the excellent reputation and trust we have earned with the public sector when offering services to help transform, what are becoming more and more complex IT challenges, into better citizen services” says openskys International Marketing & Sales Manager, Susanne McCabe. “By winning several positions on leading innovative software frameworks in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK this year, we have a strong, credible basis for further growth. With expertise in public transport, health and environment / waste data combining with new skills in interoperability, we are well placed to deliver on

municipal smart city goals and the transformation of government service delivery to citizens. Founded in 2004 by two college friends, Michael Cronin and William Flanagan, the company has not only survived the last 5 years of recession but has expanded its workforce in the Naas head office and Polish sister offices. opensky has evolved to become a trusted Managed Software Services & Data Management partner to some of the most innovative business and government teams across Europe. As a Microsoft partner for a number of years and ISO9001 quality driven processes in place, opensky has extensive experience in designing, building, implementing

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN IT & MANAGED SERVICES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR 2014

opensky is now a major exporter to the UK following the runaway success of their waste disposal data management for local authorities in England. The company is in discussions with the Scottish, Irish and Welsh government agencies in charge of waste disposal regarding the popular solution. In Northern Ireland, openskys recent award as the Preferred Supplier on the Agile eHealth Software Development Framework has opened up a whole new software focused procurement avenue for every health organisation in Northern Ireland. Not only will opensky build software under the scope of this Framework, but they will also be in a position to recommend IT solutions already within the market. “As a member of the European Connected Healthcare Alliance, we look forward to working with the health agencies and other eco-system partners in Northern Ireland to deliver on Northern Irelands overall connected health vision” adds Valerie Larkin, openskys Health executive. In England, the company will grow their public sector IT Services division after a hard won battle to win a place on the recently new Local Authority Software Applications Framework. All UK based Authorities will be encouraged to procure their future software needs through this Framework by the Crown Commercial Services. It’s a great win for Irish business too. opensky Data Systems is one of only two Irish companies, out of a total of over one hundred, awarded a place on the framework. Spotting new emerging technologies and managing the R&D of new products, William Flanagan, CTO at opensky reveals the common trends he is spotting in the Public Sector. “In recent years, our public sector clients are very interested in un-locking the latent value in their datasets through the use of Business Intelligence tools, which give the public service the ability to make better informed decisions in real time. Increasingly, the emergence of big data technologies is providing exciting opportunities to explore volumes and types of data that were previously not

possible, particularly in the Transport and Health sectors. A major trend in the Public Sector at the moment is moving towards mobility. The penetration of smart phones provides a huge opportunity to the Public Sector to provide the citizen with access to public data, services and realtime information and also giving staff access to essential services within the community. Also, we are seeing support from our Public Sector clients for the Open Data movement which, among other benefits, enables the wider developer community to bring the value-add for public data and services to the citizen.” At opensky, people are very much at the heart of its success. “Hiring and investing in the right people is vital” explains Aleksandra Schymura, HR specialist at opensky. “We have amazing people at #teamopensky, from all over the world which makes lunchtime chats very interesting and gives the company a very European outlook. Always hiring and growing, the company is currently building its dream marketing and sales team to deliver on its ambitious growth plans. Investment from Enterprise Ireland has created and sustained over fifty jobs at the company and created a team of loyal and highly skilled people and we thank Enterprise Ireland for their continued belief in our company and people” Awards and accolades are in no short supply. PASS (Pathway Accomodation and Support System) is an innovative technology that supports interagency client case management in Homeless Services. This system won the Innovation in Technology category at the Excellence in Local Government Awards 2013 that was hosted by Chambers Ireland. Colm Moroney and his team in Dublin Region Homeless Executive at Dublin City Council envisioned this system that was then realised in partnership with opensky. The company is also up for an award at the Irish Exporters Association in the High Potential and ICT categories. “We attribute our success in the last ten years, to providing a service which allows our customers to really engage to deliver fully on their needs. Our vision in the next ten years is to establish opensky in the top tier of SME software consultancy companies in the UK and Ireland. We continue to share and grow the vision of our innovative public sector clients empowering citizen services and internal efficiencies” concludes Michael Cronin, Managing Director at opensky. www.openskydata.com

Public Sector Magazine

and supporting management information systems and business intelligence solutions. The company’s managed services portfolio provides clients with ‘on-demand’ IT support that brings innovation and new technologies into client projects. The team at opensky offers value through excellence in technical design, and a flexible, reliable, client-centred approach and high quality performance. Low adoption rates of end users is a very real risk that buyers of software face. The lean, process-driven delivery approach and intuitive user design used at opensky eliminates this risk.

Public Sector Magazine

You’re in safe hands with SouthWestern, the proven partner to the Public Sector

SouthWestern Business Process Services

•

Email: enquiries@southwestern.ie

•

www.southwestern.ie

Tel: 1850 22 00 22

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN FINANCE & HR IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

HAND IN HAND WITH

SOUTHWESTERN

SouthWestern is headquartered in Cork, Ireland with operation centres in Cork, Lodz, Poland and Milton Keynes, UK. The company specialises in front and back-oﬃce processing for government and private sector. SouthWestern services fall under 5 key areas: Financial: Including financial reporting, payment processing, cash collection, risk management, policy administration, account administration and claims management. Document & Case Management: Scanning, data capture, intelligent and optical character recognition, data entry and form design, and case management & control.

Public Sector: Services include for example quality auditing / assessment, shared services, health administration, claims, grants, means tests, green energy, and new public services. Customer Relationship Management: Contact management, customer sentiment surveys / customer experience measurement, order processing, helpdesk, customer claims, email / white mail, social networking etc. With a culture based on their origins in the community, SouthWestern inherited the values of a ‘cando’ attitude with a strong customer focus based on innovation, integrity and a reputation for excellence. Brian Woods, Head of Account Management says that key to this success are people. It is imperative he says to ‘live our values’ from CEO to Agent. “Hiring the right staff, using a rigorous screening process and then providing proper induction, training and career development works hand in hand with business growth and development.” SouthWestern has a reputation for long-term partnership, delivering results and of overachieving with continuous improvements and innovation. The company’s achievements in finance and HR are evident from renewed contracts with The Injuries Board, the Department of Agriculture and Bord Bia together with new projects including BGE Tele & Field sales, Iarnrod Eireann customer care, NUIG fees office and Failte Ireland, DEFRA (UK). Woods sees future growth into the Public Sector as hugely important, “Budgetary and staffing constraints are forcing public sector organisations to identify more cost effective and efficient ways of providing their services to Irish citizens. Simultaneously, those same citizens are increasingly demanding that the public sector delivers the same service they receive from the private sector; specifically, the ability to self-serve, using the channel of their choice 24 hours a day seven days a week. “ The 2014-2016 Public Service Reform Plan identified that while progress that has been made in the

Working in partnership with Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) providers, like SouthWestern, some organisations have responded to the ‘self serve/ always on’ challenge by digitising and automating key elements of their service provision. Woods says that “where a public sector entity has already digitised, both the organisation and the citizens they interact with have rapidly seen the benefits; the former through reduced costs to serve and greater efficiencies, the latter through better and timelier services.” Woods is determined to remain at the forefront of innovative service delivery and aims “to be the BPO brand of choice and continue to grow our presence through collaborative partnerships.” Reflecting on the Public Sector magazine award for excellence in Finance and HR, Woods concludes, “These awards are very important to SouthWestern and to our staff. They provide an independent recognition of a job well done which allows us to celebrate our success across the organisation. Equally such an award provides independent assurance to our existing clients and also to prospective clients and that is very important to us” www.southwestern.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Finance & HR: Purchase to pay, order to collect, HR & payroll, banking reconciliation and financial controls etc.

implementation of shared services across certain sectors others are moving at a varying pace. Notwithstanding the rate of change, the shared service model is one that the public sector will increasingly embrace, “the problem remains however, that the services being shared still represent non-core activities to public sector organisations. Often, true value and greater efficiency can only be gained by looking outwards and partnering with companies that specialise in the delivery of such services – this will be the challenge”.

From left: Jim Costello, CEO, SouthWestern (left) Brian Woods, Head of Account Management, SouthWestern (middle) Brian Mahony, Head of Customer Delivery, SouthWestern (right)

12 Public Sector Magazine

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS

GO GLOBAL Global Diagnostics is an Irish owned international award winning radiology services provider delivering managed service solutions to public and private hospitals. This is a clinically led, patient focused organisation of industry experts, radiologists, radiographers, sonographers and ICT professionals.

Public Sector Magazine

Global has a proven track record of improving access for patients through the resolution of traditional radiology bottle necks and workflow inefficiencies, while simultaneously reducing costs for the hospital. The company has experienced a breakthrough period of growth in the past 18 months during which they have won major contracts, extended their product offering and formed innovative new partnerships. In this time they have grown their team by 30% and in 2014 they expect to see over 120,000 patients across all services. Sinead O’Connor, General Manager (a radiographer and a healthcare professional with 20 years experience) explains, “We deliver innovative, high quality patient centric solutions. Our service delivery model results in improved access for patients while simultaneously reducing costs for healthcare partners. We are committed to designing bespoke streamlined safe and effective services, meeting the needs of our customers, while adhering to national and international best practices.“ Global provides innovative higher quality solutions than existing providers coupled with improved service and client engagement. Hiring moratoriums, increasing patient populations and reducing private insurance uptake is putting pressure on public systems. “We offer a highly effective cost effective means of dealing with those challenges in both the short term and medium term” says Sinead. “Using the USP we have developed from the delivery of comprehensive radiology services we are now applying this know how to other diagnostic services. We are now offering Radiology and Ophthalmology services and in Q4 of this year will be introducing mobile colonoscopy services.“ Global Diagnostics and Centric Health (parent company) are committed to ensuring an environment of continuous quality improvement where all aspects of quality are considered in the delivery of care to patients. They have a mature governance infrastructure made up of clinical groups that are overseen by the Board. These structures ensure that patients are considered in all quality improvement initiatives and Global continually evaluate their performance against measurable objectives. “Global is committed to meeting the National Standards for

Safer Better Healthcare and achieves this by maintaining formal compliance with the CHKS and ISO Standards for Accreditation” says Sinead. Supporting the career development of employees through advancement and training is a key element in the success of Global Diagnostics. It is policy that the best candidate for the job is selected and decisions are not driven by ‘next in line’ or hierarchy limitations. Commitment to this principle of appointment on merit reflects Global’s policy on Equal Opportunities across the group. David Sheehan, Global Diagnostics CEO explains that “Currently Global has chosen to focus on the larger UK and Ireland markets and move away from the Australian market the company originated in”. He concludes, “Our ambition is that our rapid growth will continue across a minimum of three specialties and that the ‘Global’ in our name will become synonymous with a global range of quality diagnostic services. We are on target to have our third diagnostic service established by Q4 2014.” www.globaldiagnostics.ie

IRELAND FUNDS GREAT RESEARCH…. maybe it’s your turn to join us!

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) supports excellent research in Ireland. This includes:

Public Sector Magazine

SFI Research Professorship aims to attract outstanding senior research talent to Ireland. SFI Industry Fellowships Programmes facilitate both long term and short visiting exchanges between academia and industry worldwide. SFI/EI Technology Innovation Development Award (TIDA) is designed to enable researchers to focus on the first steps of an applied research project. President of Ireland Young Researcher Award (PIYRA) aims to attract to Ireland exceptional early stage researchers.

ERC Development Programme supports ERC applicants to resubmit to the ERC through an Irish Higher Education Institution. SFI Partnership Scheme aims to build strategic collaborations with key partners such as industry, funding agencies, charities, philanthropic organisations, etc. with the goal of co-funding outstanding research opportunities. SFI Conference & Workshops Programme supports the hosting of scientific meetings and conferences in Ireland. US-Ireland Research and Development Partnership supports research collaborations across the three jurisdictions, United States of America, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

To find out more view – www.sfi.ie or follow us on Twitter@scienceirel.

OUTRIGHT WINNERS CONTRIBUTION TO SCIENCE

APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) is the national foundation for investment in scientiﬁc and engineering research. It is a collaborative, innovative, dynamic and visionary funding agency committed to supporting research which powers economic development and social progress. Along with supporting competitive research in Ireland’s higher education institutions, SFI leverages industry partnerships and helps Irish researchers to access EU funding streams to ensure that Ireland continues to attract, retain and expand research that leads to an increase in competitiveness and in high value jobs.

Building partnerships is key says Professor Mark Ferguson, Director General of SFI and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of Ireland, “These SFI Research Centres combine scientific research with deep and significant enterprise engagement: excellence and impact. Working with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, bodies like the IDA and Enterprise Ireland together with the wider education sector, charities and industry, SFI is committed to ensuring the effectiveness, impact and success of the science sector to deliver real economic. social and reputational benefits to Ireland.” He continued, “Our principal focus is to be the best science funding agency in the world, demonstrating clear value for money invested. We are also responsible for the promotion of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to ensure that the Irish public is fully aware of the benefit of the STEM sector to the economy and to society. We are focused on building partnerships with industry and international stakeholders that fund excellent science and drive it out into the market”.

Public Sector Magazine

The last twelve months have been significant with the enactment of the Industrial Development (SFI) Amendment Act 2013. The Act allows SFI to fund applied as well as oriented basic research and to formally promote scientific outreach in Ireland. In 2014, SFI’s efforts have focused on the further development of the academic/industrial research ecosystem in Ireland such as the establishment of the SFI Partnership and Industrial Fellowship programmes. In October this year, five additional SFI Research Centres were established with funding of €155 million from SFI, coupled with €90 million in cash and in-kind contributions from industry partners. The funding will support cutting-edge research in critical and emerging sectors of the economy which are key for job creation in Ireland. These five SFI Research Centres complement the seven SFI announced last year – which are already having a major positive impact: making important scientific advances, initiating and enhancing enterprise, training people with appropriate skills, winning EU projects and enhancing Ireland’s international reputation.

The organisation continues to focus on empowering Irish researchers to lead and win in the EU Horizon 2020 programme and on the continued development of the Research Centres Programme. Professor Ferguson concludes, “We will seek to attract, develop and retain the best researchers in Ireland; we will provide funding for research in areas of strategic national importance and we will promote education and awareness of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). As the measurement of scientific research impact is complex, SFI is leading an initiative with similarly sized advanced economies (Singapore, Finland, Denmark, Israel and New Zealand) to share experience and practice in the measurement of research impact and to collectively advance our knowledge in this area.” Building on the achievements of the past 12 months, SFI is in an excellent position to make an even greater contribution to scientific research excellence in Ireland. www.sfi.ie

Protecting

Public Sector Magazine

our grass roots

Ireland’s Public Sector – The Grass Roots of IPB As Ireland’s only indigenous mutual insurer and wholly Irish-owned insurance company, we are proud to be the leading insurer of the public sector.

Not only that, IPB is owned by, and managed on behalf of, its public sector Members, including Ireland’s local authorities, public, education and health bodies.

At IPB we believe that by working together we can create a brighter future for our Members and for our stakeholders, the Irish people.

Working to make a difference | www.ipb.ie Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances Ltd. trading as IPB Insurance is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

IPB Ad Protecting Our Grass Roots A4.indd 1

For business in the UK, IPB Insurance is authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority.

11/11/2014 14:49

IPB HAVE IT COVERED IPB Insurance is a mutual general insurance company in operation since 1926. It has grown to become one of the largest liability insurers in the Irish market. An experienced underwriter of major liability, property and motor risks, IPB Insurance (IPB), a wholly Irish-owned and managed company, successfully insures some of the largest organisations in the State in both the public and private sectors. “It’s an honour to win the Public Sector Insurance Company of the Year 2014 for the second consecutive year,” says Ronan Foley, Chief Executive. Public Sector Magazine

14 14:49

OUTRIGHT WINNERS INSURANCE COMPANY OF THE YEAR

“I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the dedication of and contribution made by all IPB employees in helping us achieve this award,” he says. “Winning this award demonstrates our role as the leading insurer of public sector risks and underlines our commitment to providing a world-class service to our public sector members,” he says. “As a leading insurer of local authority, education, health and sporting organisations, we pride ourselves on serving and protecting those who in turn serve and protect Irish communities and contribute so much to public, social and recreational life. Our experienced and dedicated staff is committed to providing comprehensive, tailored insurance products, excellent customer service and value added services that suit our individual clients’ needs. We have unrivalled expertise in looking after the interests of public sector organisations and we truly understand the challenges they face. “ As Ireland’s only indigenous mutual insurer and wholly Irish-owned insurance company, IPB are motivated by members’ needs and protecting their communities by delivering operationally, commercially and socially. “Our in-depth knowledge and understanding of the unique requirements and challenges of this sector allow us to create bespoke products, services and advice that are suited to our individual clients’ risk profiles. We provide extensive risk management advice to clients by publishing guidance documents, arranging conferences and delivering training,” Foley adds. According to Foley, IPB regards the award as an endorsement of the work they do for their public sector clients and he says that it also sets a very high standard to which they will hold themselves going forward. “While IPB is delighted to have been honoured with this award for the second year in a row, there is no time to sit back and congratulate ourselves,” he says. “The public sector has faced some significant changes over the past couple of years. At IPB, we continue to evolve our service

and broaden our member support to help manage these changes together. “Our short-term objective is very much based on anticipating what our stakeholders need and ensuring that we offer the right products and services at the right time. In the medium term, we will continue to evolve with our clients and strive to maintain and enhance our solid performance record. Another of our key objectives is to lead in the area of Corporate Social Engagement (CSE). In 2012, IPB Insurance made corporate history by being the first company to issue a social dividend to Irish society of €5 million, funding our Corporate Social Engagement (CSE) Framework, which is supporting initiatives under five key themes – Diaspora, Sport, Education, Youth and Community, and Business Innovation. We are confident that the lead that IPB has taken in this area will influence other corporates to adopt CSE as a core function within their organisational structure and make giving back to society a core part of their business objective.” www.ipb.ie

Public Sector Magazine 18

LEGAL EAGLES Philip Lee runs one of the largest and most recognisable law ďŹ rms in Ireland. The ďŹ rm provides legal advice to government on some of the biggest issues in the land as well as representing some of the largest private companies. In a wide ranging interview Philip Lee talks to Shane Cassells about the very basic principles of law in Ireland and his thoughts on how the practice of law has changed and the part it plays in a recovering economy. Philip Lee has created one of the top commercial law firms in Dublin with offices in Brussels to handle EU competition law cases and San Francisco to deal with inward investment clients. Having created such a a powerful legal firm you would think that this is a man driven by the pursuit of power and wealth, yet nothing could be further from the truth. After you spend a half an hour in his company you quickly realise what a principled man Philip Lee is and how this in turns permeates throughout his legal firm.

There is no doubt that Philip Lee is driven but his ideological focus is not on money; It is on more socially conscious areas such as renewable energy and the provision of environmentally sound buildings that can vastly reduce our carbon emissions. So it comes as no surprise that when you sit down with Philip Lee to discuss the law you find a man who is extremely passionate about the aspects which contribute to a high quality legal system. Straight away Lee takes out a jotter and scribbles out the main points that make for a good legal

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST CORPORATE LAW FIRM

system – something that any young law student would savor like observing an artist at work. “A high quality legal system needs four main components to ensure that it is robust and operates to optimum standards,” mused Lee. These are an independent judiciary, an effective court system, independent lawyers and to maximise the efficiencies in litigation outcomes

“A lot of what I just said might sound like just normal items that you would expect but it is only when you go to countries such as Afghanistan, Iran or Iraq where the basic principles of democracy have been eroded that you can value what you have here at home. Even today in Europe you see where civil liberties are threatened and how that has a knock on effect on people’s lives. You only have to look at what has been happening in the Ukraine to see that.” Moving on from the very basic principles of what one expects from a functioning legal system into the more complex issues of the contribution of the law to a strong economy, Lee’s views are insightful. At first glance the ordinary person on the street might make no connection between the law and economic performance but it is only when you scratch the surface that you understand the importance of how the two go hand in hand. “It is quite amazing the number of areas the law touches in our economy whether on issues of employment law, competition law or dealing with issues on procurement,” explains Lee. “Those issues around procurement have massive ramifications for all of us as we strive to make sure that expenditure on roads and other public projects are secured for the best price. Thankfully our economy is starting to recover and money is becoming available again to conduct large public projects. It is essential that all of these have strong legal frameworks to go with them.” Controversial issues are not off the agenda either during the course of the discussion. On the arrival of the Troika into Ireland the legal profession was singled out as a sector that required reform but little appears to have been achieved in this regard. However, according to Lee there has been quite

“I can only talk from my own firm’s point of view but we are always more focused on the outcome of a case rather than what fees we are clocking up and I think that when you put that first and foremost, you get a public which is far more at ease with the profession. During my time practicing I have seen big changes in the type of complex issues that we now have to deal with and how areas such as data protection have provided huge challenges. The number of women practicing law has increased greatly which is fantastic to see and the physical offices have modernised greatly. What I think is most exciting though is that today we have lawyers that understand their role in society and the critical part lawyers play in ensuring our democracy functions across a vaster spectrum of areas. This is not a profession for the faint hearted and it can be hard to survive but what makes it rewarding is when you work on major pieces of work that have a direct public benefit.” There is no doubting that Philip Lee himself, and as a consequence his entire firm, has a major commitment to social responsibility and in this modern world that is refreshing in the extreme. www.philiplee.ie

Public Sector Magazine

“Now these might sound straightforward but we need the structures to go with them,” explains Lee. “So in the case of the judiciary we need to provide the experienced and well trained staff to support judges because if they are not in place you could end up waiting years for outcomes because of backlogs caused by the lack of structure. We also need a modern court system that debunks a lot of the formal practices and moves away from gowns, wigs and a form of the language that nobody understands. In Ireland we are lucky to have well trained and independent lawyers who all possess a strong ethical belief system.”

significant changes by the profession and structures were adapting even prior to the arrival of the Troika. “There has been huge upheaval in our profession and we are no different than any other in terms of the impact of the recession. Legal fees have reduced significantly since the financial crisis and our fees are far from excessive when compared to those in other countries.

Public Sector Magazine 20

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS IRELAND AWARDS Delegates were told that social entrepreneurs are shaping the future of Ireland at the 10th annual awards sponsored by DCC plc. The awards have invested â&#x201A;Ź5.82 million in social entrepreneurs in Ireland over the last ten years.

Public Sector Magazine 21

Nine social entrepreneurs were awarded a total prize fund worth €600,000 at the event which took place in Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin in November. CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Darren Ryan and CEO of sponsors DCC plc Tommy Breen presented awards to the three Impact Award Winners; Iseult Ward and Aoibheann O’Brien of FoodCloud, Elizabeth Waters of the Virtual Community College and Karen Leigh of special needs charity Sensational Kids. Each Impact winner was awarded a prize worth €140,000 for their organisation. A further six social entrepreneurs received a prize worth €30,000 each in the Elevator Award category. They were Adam Harris of autism charity AsIAm, Jean O’Brien of Irish Charity Lab, Joan Henderson of Sólás, Ray Burke of Active Connections, Jennifer Ryan of My Life Solutions and Mairead Healy of Future Voices Ireland. Over the last ten years Social Entrepreneurs Ireland has supported 179 social entrepreneurs, investing

€5.82 million in their projects and providing significant additional supports. These in turn have directly impacted over 290,000 people all over Ireland, creating over 970 employment opportunities in the process. Former Impact Award winner Tony Griffin of Soar, an organisation that equips young people with positive life skills, addressed the audience on the night. “Now more than ever social entrepreneurs are shaping the future of the country,” he said. “It is so important that an organisation like Social Entrepreneurs Ireland exists. It means more than anything to have an organisation that believes in you and the difference that you want to make.” Sponsors DCC plc is an international sales, marketing, distribution and business support services group headquartered in Dublin with revenues of €13 billion and employing 10,000 people in 13 countries. DCC, a public company since 1994, is listed on the London Stock Exchange. www.socialentrepreneurs.ie

Public Sector Magazine 22

“Everything we do is designed to protect our pay, our conditions of service and our members in the workplace”.

OUTRIGHT WINNERS CONTRIBUTION TO THE PRISON SERVICE ON BEHALF OF THE STATE

AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMEN The Prison Officers’ Association was founded in 1947 and represents over 3,250 Prison Staff. With the assistance of local representatives, it represents all Staff up to and including the rank of Deputy Governor. The policies of the Association are determined by a yearly Annual Delegate Conference while the daily affairs of the Association are administered by eight National Officers, of which four are full time Officials.

“In 2005 the POA was the first organisation within the Civil Service to introduce an annualized hour’s agreement to protect our members’ earnings, which is still in operation today. With our affiliation to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, and membership of the Public Services Committee, we have taken a strong and public position on important issues such as pay.” Stephen explains that, “despite the fact that we managed to maintain our premium payments under the terms of Haddington Road, the financial crisis has had a massive impact on our members and their families where members have taken a 15% reduction in pay.” He says that “Civil and Public Service workers such as Prison Officers must be rewarded for the hardship they have experienced for their contribution in restoring the economy. This fundamental issue will remain top of our agenda in the coming months”. “For the future” Stephen states, “It is vital that the Minister and Prison Service Officials recognize that in terms of funding and recruitment it is essential that the Prison Service is supported sufficiently. Politicians see no votes in prisons but they should realize that without investment in our Prison Service; we will all pay a much higher societal price in the short and long term. You can only generate so much by way of efficiencies before you destroy the very fabric of the service we are supposedly developing”. Stephen also outlines “unfortunately today, the threat of violence and accusations of mistreatment for Prison Officers is part of the normal working day. We as the representative body will endeavor to pursue all reasonable measures to create and protect a relatively safe working environment for our members”.

Public Sector Magazine

The POA is essentially what its members want it to be – a strong, respected and progressive union. After some challenging times, it has developed significant skills in putting forward creative solutions on issues which have contributed to a more stable environment for members. “We always try to engage for the purpose of influencing the agenda, rather than having the agenda imposed on us as workers” explains Stephen Delaney, President.

On the international front, our involvement and our relationship outside of Ireland continues to evolve within our affiliation to EUROFEDOP and INFEDOP both well established and respected Public Service Bodies within the European Community. We have also developed good relations with Prison Officer Bodies in Northern Ireland, Scotland and the UK, where we travelled to support English Prison Officers in their campaign for the right to strike. Stephen states “As an organisation, everything we do is designed to protect our pay, our conditions of service and our members in the workplace. Going forward, Stephen says ‘’the restoration of our pay and the implementation of a Complaint Procedures which is fair to all stakeholders are a priority for the Association”. He says “To achieve our objectives effective communication with our members is essential. We try to provide easy access to full and part time Officials and we promote a culture of openness and transparency which we aspire to be key features of the organisation’’. The Association has developed training programs for local representatives and will continue to provide financial resources for the provision of accredited training for up-skilling local representatives. There is no doubt that Stephen Delaney and the Association he represents has an exceptional commitment to their work - as recognised by the Public Sector Magazine Awards Panel. Stephen concludes, “I take this opportunity to accept this award on behalf of all our members who work so hard and make such a vital contribution to our society.”

Public Sector Magazine 24

ONE CONNECTS PEOPLE The important role played by current and retired members of the Irish Defence Forces is currently not fully understood by the public at large. But this is something that ONE – the organisation of National ExServicemen and Women – hopes to change as it embarks on a major public awareness raising campaign. Chief Executive Ollie O’Connor is delighted that the timing of this campaign launch coincides with the announcement that the organisation he represents has won the public sector ‘Social Providers’ award for the second year in succession. “We were the outright winners of the Social Providers award 2013 and we have won it again in 2014 and it is great to get the recognition,” says Mr O’Connor. “We are not in the public eye enough, either ONE or the Defence Forces. Other countries such as Britain, France and America have great military traditions but we do not have a military tradition as such. We are a new enough country and people do not realise all that the defence forces do and that when people leave the defence forces, they do not all have pensions and do not all live in luxury.”

The main plan now he says is to try to get this message into the public consciousness. We want people to remember those who served before us and honour those who are currently serving,” he says. “We should remember those who have served in the defence forces,” he continues. “There was 30 years of conflict in Northern Ireland and it was important that we had the defence forces during that time. Our troops overseas have given tremendous service and when they leave the service these people should be remembered, particularly those who fall on hard times. We should remember what they did for Ireland and try to help them.” Ollie explains that the board of ONE is currently putting a plan together to get a strong awareness raising campaign underway. “Within the last year, a

OUTRIGHT WINNERS SOCIAL PROVIDERS

In tandem with the new planned public awareness campaign, ONE continues its vital fundraising campaigns which support its primary objective of ensuring the welfare of ex-service personnel. This is very important says Ollie, “We cherish our three residential homes – in Dublin, Athlone and Letterkenny – which accommodate around 40 ex-service personnel who for one reason or another, find themselves in unfortunate circumstances.” He says that it is tough in the current environment to raise enough funds to keep these three homes open “because of the state of the general economy, people are being very careful about how they spend their money but the people of Ireland continue to be generous anyway.” ONE receives grant aid of approximately 180,000 euro per annum from Dublin City Council but it costs 600,000 euro to run the three residential homes. “We do not receive the same level of funding as other charities so we have to rely on support for our annual fundraising campaigns such as the Fuchsia Appeal which goes on throughout the year with a particular focus during the month of July,” says O’Connor. ONE’s members, through branches around the country, also play a ceremonial role, taking part in remembrance events, reviews of troops departing on overseas missions and St Patrick’s Day parades. The organisation is also all set to play and active role in all the commemorations planned in the lead up to the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising. “We see our participation in ceremonies as important and something that helps to keep our organisation to the forefront,” says Ollie. He continues: “We hope to play an active role in the commemorations of 1916, both nationally and locally and we have written to the Minister for Defence offering our services in any way that we can help.

Last year was the 100th anniversary of the Irish Volunteers which we see the defence forces coming directly from and ONE brought out a 100th anniversary commemorative medal which sold well and is still selling. As ONE has a great relationship with other defence and military organisations, including the Royal British Legion and the SSAFA in Britain, the French Foreign Legion Association of Ireland, the Union Nationale des Combattants (UNC) and the American Legion, it is playing an active ceremonial role in the World War One 100th anniversary commemorations. “We took part in the Cross of Sacrifice which was recently unveiled in Glasnevin Cemetery and the commemoration Mass in Dublin’s Pro Cathedral. We hope that all these ceremonies will keep us to the forefront” said Ollie. “We are also very proud of our pipe band based at our Newbridge branch; this band is very important to us as well as it helps to raise our profile.” Apart from fundraising, campaigning and the ceremonial side of things, ONE members socialise together on a regular basis. This is very important for people to be able to meet friends and talk to each other. The organisation are also beginning to open up drop-in centres with one in Limerick city and one in Aiken Barracks in Dundalk. “The Chief of Staff (of the defence forces) is anxious that we continue in this vein so where there are major barracks we are anxious to open veteran centres” explains Ollie. As the official representatives of ex-service personnel, ONE meets regularly with the Association of Retired Commissioned Officers (ARCO) and the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) to try to improve the lot of veterans. ONE relies on the members its represents to help with its work in a volunteer capacity. While the organisation has 16 employees across its three residential homes, there are only two staff employed in its Dublin headquarters. “We have very good volunteers, all our 1,400 members are volunteers,” adds Ollie, “we need them as they are our foundation.” www.oneconnect.ie

Public Sector Magazine

volunteer with a marketing background has joined our board,” he says. This marketing expert has had time to familiarise himself with the organisation “and with his help we will get a campaign underway to raise our profile and bring us into the 21st century explains Ollie.”

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS SCHOOL WARDEN SERVICE

HIGH VISIBILITY The school warden service provided by Dublin City Council contributes to the safety of thousands of children attending schools throughout the city on a daily basis during school terms. A familiar sight at many school gates, wardens are identiﬁable by their high visibility uniforms and STOP signs.

Anyone aged 18 or over in good health and of good character is eligible to apply for a job as part of this dedicated team, who operate in all weathers. Standing in the Irish rain and wind for two hours a day is no easy task and this, in tandem with the responsibility involved, calls for a stalwart individual. Few people would be willing to step out into modern traffic flows armed only with a sign and an authoritative presence. As far as possible, the wardens are given their own regular ‘patch’. This brings an element of familiarity to the job so that they know their regulars and who to watch out for – the tentative crossers, the darting children and the dreamers who might be a little distracted by their electronic devices! Relief patrols are also needed to cover sites when the regular patrol is off work, because rush hour traffic never sleeps. The service was first provided in the 1960s by the voluntary Safety First Association aided by grants from the Department of Local Government but non standard school hours and holidays, coupled with the fact that it did not exist on a statutory footing made it difficult to administer the scheme. When the National Road Safety Association was formed in the 1970s, the service became a function of the local authorities and from then on the job evolved into a much more streamlined operation. In return for carrying out such a vital service in the community, wardens were guaranteed weekly working hours, holiday entitlements and more

effective protective clothing was provided. Today communities benefit from well trained wardens who provide a high quality, diligent service. While the Warden is an invaluable addition to road safety, they should never be taken for granted. The responsibility for any child’s safety on the way to and returning from school is that of the parents or carer and they should be taught safe crossing practices and encouraged to use same. Remember, the friendly lollipop person will not be there to see them safely across the road as an adult!

L to R Damien Hollywood, Karen Harvey and John Fennessy Environment & Transportation Department.

Public Sector Magazine

At many schools throughout Dublin City Council’s administrative area, the sight of the lollipop person is a daily occurrence. The lollipop person enjoys the formal title of ‘School Warden’. They are legally permitted to stop traffic and provide a vital service in allowing parents and children a safer place to cross the road on their perilous journeys to and from school. They mostly operate outside primary schools, at sites which are deemed to be particularly busy or dangerous. The service is provided by the Environment and Transportation Department of Dublin City Council who have been operating the service since 1976. At present, there are over 200 wardens employed and they undergo rigorous training and Garda vetting before they are allowed to do what is a very important yet often undervalued job.

Deutsche Post DHL - The Mail & Logistics Group

Public Sector Magazine 28

DELIVERING YOUR BUSINESS TO THE WORLD. Our local expertise, customs clearance experience and international network are unparalleled. That’s why when it comes to express shipping we’re the International Specialists. And why, if you’re a company, small business or individual, we’re the perfect partner to help drive your business into more markets around the world than anyone else. That’s the Speed of Yellow. www.dhl.ie/express

OUTRIGHT WINNERS INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS & TRANSPORT PROVIDER

DELIVERING

EXCELLENCE DHL Express is the undisputed leader in the International Express market in Ireland and provides express delivery services to and from over 220 countries worldwide. Throughout 2013 and into the ﬁrst half of 2014, DHL continued to grow its international express volumes on the back of an upturn in export volume and a further improvement in its overall market share position.

DHL Express has a team of over 500 trained international specialists working in the Irish business to support the needs of customers right across the country. And with a local customer services team of over 60 dedicated staff based in Swords, County Dublin, Irish customers are able to speak to local DHL people to support their every need. The company is absolutely focused on its core competency of international air express with fastest possible delivery to and from over 220 countries worldwide. Bernard McCarthy, Managing Director, DHL Express Ireland “Our role is to facilitate international trade and we work with exporters and those companies seeking to expand their businesses internationally to help them get their product to customers wherever in the world they may be. The core DHL service includes customs clearance in the destination country without the need to involve third party brokers “ Quality is key for DHL Express and the entire network is fully accredited to ISO9002. In addition, DHL operate a quality control center in each region to actively monitor the transport of shipments through DHL hubs and gateways across the DHL international network ensuring that transit times are achieved. These systems and networks are further supported by in-country operations support centers to ensure that operational quality is maintained and all service and delivery KPI’s are achieved. DHL’s core Focus strategy is to have Motivated People who provide Great Service Quality which in turn ensures that we maintain Loyal Customers and a Profitable Business. This business strategy is fundamentally based upon the understanding that in order to have loyal customers the company needs to have motivated and fully engaged staff and this approach is embedded into the management style practiced within the business. This is

also underpinned by a management training and development program which reinforces the approach. DHL invests heavily in a Certified International Specialist Training Program. This training is rolled out to all staff irrespective of their role within the business. The goal is to ensure that all staff fully understand their role in the DHL process and the impact that they have on the service to customers. “We also have a policy to promote from within and the majority of the managers within the business have progressed from relatively junior frontline positions to their current roles. There is a strong record of DHL Ireland staff progressing into more senior roles throughout the DHL international network” explains Bernard. He concludes, “DHL Express Ireland has made great strides in recent years, whether that is measured in terms of financial results, service performance or any other relevant KPI. Our continued intention is to maintain an absolute focus on our core international express business and in so doing generate continuous improvement across all of our key business metrics.” www.dhl.ie

Public Sector Magazine

With dedicated DHL aircraft operating on a daily basis into and out of Shannon and Dublin airports, DHL provide the latest collection and earliest delivery times for Irish exporters and importers to deliver the fastest possible transit times worldwide.

Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann / Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen and Women

Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann Teoranta is the official name of the Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen and Women (ONE). The ONE is dedicated to looking after the welfare of ex-service personnel of the Irish Defence Services. The main objective of ONE is to ensure the welfare of ex-service personnel by way of providing accommodation to homeless, elderly or disabled members in need of such domestic accommodation and shelter and other assistance that may be required. ONE has three homes for ex-service personnel Brú na bhFiann, Dublin (30 residents), Custume House, Athlone (7) and Beechwood House Letterkenny (7); Overnight accommodation is available at Brú na bhFiann to members of the ONE and the Defence Forces at very reasonable rates. There are approx 1400 members in over forty branches throughout the country. Membership of the ONE is open to any person who has served in the Permanent Defence Force, the Reserve Defence Force, Irish Red Cross, Civil Defence or Garda Siochana The ONE also remembers former comrades who died in service by holding and attending remembrance ceremonies countrywide. Each year the ONE at national level holds its annual remembrance ceremony, Lá na bhFiann in July each year. The ONE also holds a ceremony in memory of those who died in the Niemba Ambush while serving with the United Nations in the Congo. The Niemba Ambush Remembrance is held in Cathal Brugha Barracks, Dublin, on the nearest Saturday to the actual date of that ambush (8th Nov). The Annual Fuchsia Appeal occurs in July of each year which is the month of the National Day of Commemoration. Fuchsia emblems are sold throughout the country and the emblem is used as a fundraiser, a symbol of remembrance for fallen comrades and to honour those currently serving in the Defence Forces. If you wish to donate you can do so at www.oneconnect.ie or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ONEIreland

NEWS IRISH PR FIRM SELECTED FOR

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AWARDS

The European Business Awards – sponsored by RSM International and now in their eighth year – recognise and reward excellence, best practice and innovation in companies across the EU. The competition engaged with over 24,000 businesses from 33 countries, making it Europe’s largest cross-border business recognition scheme. DHR was selected as Ireland’s National Champion in the ‘Employer of the Year’ category, which recognises companies’ efforts to motivate staff by enabling career expansion, operating equal opportunity schemes and promoting a work-life balance. From the National Champions shortlisted, an elite judging panel will select overall winners in February 2015. Previous judging support has been provided by such luminaries as Karel De Gucht, the EU Trade Commissioner; Yves Leterme, former Prime Minister of Belgium; Jose Aznar, former Prime Minister

of Spain; and Gilbert Ghostine, Managing Director of Diageo Continental Europe. Martina Quinn, Executive Director of DHR said “since being established 10 years ago, DHR has worked with a wide range of public sector clients in areas such as education, regulation, enterprise development, integration and culture. Current clients include the National Library of Ireland, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and Irish Aid at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. All members of our senior management team have extensive public affairs experience and excellent insights into politics and policymaking at local, national and international levels. We draw on this expertise in delivering high-quality communications services to public sector clients. www.businessawardseurope.com

Public Sector Magazine

Dublin based PR ﬁrm DHR Communications wins for Ireland in the ‘Employer of the Year’ category of the prestigious European Business Awards, a prestigious competition supported by business leaders, academics, media and political representatives from across Europe.

NEWS

Public Sector Magazine

GIVING YOUNG PEOPLE A VOICE

Young people celebrated 25 years of children’s rights and having a stronger voice in decision-making 500 young people, aged 12 - 17, from Comhairle na nÓg celebrated the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in the company of the Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD and Dr James Reilly TD, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs at Croke Park. The UNCRC is the most ratified human rights charter in the world and demands Governments to ensure the rights of the child are promoted and respected. It also demands the right of children to express their views. The Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted by the United Nations on 20th November 1989. Ireland ratified the UNCRC in 1992. Comhairle na nÓg are child and youth councils in all local authority areas of the country and are the recognised national structure for children and young people (under the age of 18) to have a voice in the development of local services and policies. It is funded and supported by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Speaking at the event the Taoiseach said: “It is a privilege to share this day with all of you who are living proof of the value of children and young people having a voice in decision-making in our country. You have so much to contribute and you have a right to contribute to the decisions that affect your individual and collective lives.” Dr James Reilly, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs said: “I am struck by the number of Comhairle na nÓg that are working on mental health and bullying, which are hugely important in the lives of young people. Promoting and supporting positive mental health and addressing bullying are most successfully done when young people and adults work together to come up with strategies that help people through difficult times.”

IRISH MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE OFFICIALLY OPENS

FUTURE-FOCUSED NATIONAL MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE 2014 The Irish Management Institute (IMI) held its annual National Management Conference (NMC) under the theme ‘Adapt-AlignAchieve.’ One of the key business events of the year, the conference saw its most impressive line-up of speakers to date with Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill and assistant manager Roy Keane taking to the stage alongside other high profile leaders including; award-winning BBC presenter, Financial Times columnist and bestselling author Tim Harford, the ‘Jane Bond of Innovation’ Nilofer Merchant and neuroscientist Shane O’Mara of Trinity College Dublin who each brought their own experience and perspective to challenge audience assumptions about business, organisations and leadership. Other speakers offered bite-sized ‘Inspire Insight’ sessions including productivity expert Claire Burge and former Principal Conductor of the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, David Brophy and Dr. Tony Bates, the renowned clinical psychologist and frequent media contributor. Speaking to the conference, Minister Bruton said: “Irish business-people and entrepreneurs are among the heroes of the economic recovery we are now starting to see.” “What we in Government have tried to do is to provide the supports and create the

conditions that allow you to expand your businesses. Our energies will be focused on securing economic recovery and in ensuring that all changes we make are directed at ensuring that businesses can continue to startup, expand and create the jobs we need”. Speaking at the conference, Simon Boucher, Chief Executive of the Irish Management Institute said; “The IMI is in the midst of a very exciting period and as Ireland’s only globally ranked provider of customised executive education, we are perfectly poised to support the growing need for management development in Ireland”. IMI is a membership organisation that reflects a spectrum of Irish industry, from the smallest micro-organisations to the world’s largest multinationals. For sixty years IMI has pioneered the development of executive education in Ireland. Thousands of senior executives attend developmental programmes at IMI annually, ranging from NFQ level 9 Masters and Diploma qualifications to one and two day master classes. IMI also acts as a “business partner” for organisations that are looking to align comprehensive learning and development strategies to support the execution of business growth strategies. Common to all IMI programmes is the translation of academic best practice to real-world solutions for practising managers.

NEWS InterTradeIreland

SEEDCORN COMPETITION

Public Sector Magazine

Eight companies across the island of Ireland have beaten stiff competition at the regional finals of the InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition, each securing €20,000 in funding and a place in the forthcoming grand final in Belfast. The competition, which supports new start and early stage companies, offers a share of a €280,000 cash prize, with no equity stake taken in the winning company. Now in its 12th year, Seedcorn is the island’s biggest business competition for new start and early stage companies in any sector, from any part of the island. To date, InterTradeIreland has supported over 1,950 enterprising companies through the Seedcorn process. With €174 million in new equity being raised by the companies who have reached the regional finals stage of the Seedcorn competition over the past 11 years, the competition has a strong track record of supporting early business startups to become investor ready. Competing for the ‘Overall Best Early Stage’ title and a cash prize of €100,000 are: AventaMed (Cork) that has developed a novel medical device which allows grommets to be placed safely and quickly in an office setting, eliminating the need for general anaesthesia and costly operating room time. (Munster winner) Jenarron Therapeutics (Belfast) that are focused on the development and commercialisation of a patent protected, novel drug delivery technology which can be

used in clinical care settings worldwide. The first product in the portfolio is for children and is an effective, needle free application of an anaesthetic to an open wound in an Emergency Room setting, resulting in improved clinical outcomes and a superior patient experience. (NI winner) Nearfield Communications (Athlone) that has developed ‘Device Smart’, which offers businesses an innovative (SAAS) softwareas-a-service solution that facilitates the remote control and monitoring on one system, of all enterprise-wide hardware anywhere in the world, thereby delivering significant cost savings and operational efficiencies. (Connacht & Leinster winner) Stayhold (Swords) designs, makes and sells a new range of unique products for securing cargo in the car boot. Stayhold cargo companions are plastic products which use Velcro strips to stick to the carpet in the car and then hold loose objects in place. (Dublin winner) Competing for the ‘Overall Best New Start’ title and a cash prize of €50,000 are: EVB Sports Shorts (Drogheda) that has developed compression sports shorts for women which are engineered to protect and strengthen the core. (Connacht & Leinster winner) PT Dock (Belfast) is a business app for personal trainers (PTs) and is already a global product. Using this app, trainers can automate many tasks and gain greater

insight into customer performance, allowing them to achieve better results, expand client services and ultimately increase revenue. (NI winner) SonarSim (Limerick) develops software applications to increase the efficiency of underwater exploration for the underwater security, offshore oil and gas, marine renewable energy, subsea telecoms and seabed charting industries. (Munster winner) TruePivot (Dublin 8) that has designed and developed software which allows engineers to store and search for engineering designs in the cloud. (Dublin winner) Connor Sweeney, Seedcorn Project Manager, InterTradeIreland added; “This is the twelfth year of our Seedcorn competition and it is extremely encouraging to see the abundance of drive, innovative thinking and passion that entrepreneurs across the island are bringing to the table each year. Not only does the competition deliver a cash prize for the winners, but it also allows businesses to experience the competitive investor pitch process and equips them with the skills for future pitches. Companies that have reached the ﬁnal stages of the competition are the ‘ones to watch’ so I sincerely congratulate all the companies that have won at the regional ﬁnals.” All companies who enter the competition automatically become part of the Seedcorn Network – an extensive business community which helps boost the company’s profile, contacts and investment opportunities.

Public Sector Magazine 34

LEADING LIGHT It is estimated that about 20% of worldwide electricity production is used for lighting alone. Though progress is being made on deployment of many â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cleanerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; alternative sources of power to fossil fuels, the generation of electricity will remain a massive contributor to carbon emissions for some time to come.

OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENERGY EFFICIENT LED LIGHTING

There is now widespread awareness of the fragility of our planet and international acceptance of the imperative to urgently reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emissions as a global community to minimise adverse effects of climate change and achieve a healthier sustainable environment. As highlighted by the Irish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ireland is facing significant challenges in meeting its EU future emissions targets for greenhouse gases under the EU Climate and Energy package for 2020 and anticipated longer term targets up to 2050. Effective action by all economic sectors is required for the transition to a low emissions economy.

LEDVISTA Lighting is dedicated to serving as a leading expert supplier of premium quality LED lighting solutions to municipal, business and residential markets, working only with proven and reputable manufacturers that adhere in full to all EU directives related to lighting and specifically LED lighting. The company was founded in 2007 on the firm conviction that LED lighting technology was destined to become the most environmentally sustainable primary lighting technology available. The LEDVISTA Lighting portfolio includes state-of-the-art LED lighting solutions that are at the forefront of illumination for contemporary & heritage architectural and aesthetic lighting applications for public buildings as well as commercial, retail, hospitality and leisure facilities. Working with several public sector departments the company is enabling considerable energy savings in schools, libraries, hospitals and county councils country-wide. “It’s an exciting time for the world of lighting as we are compelled to finally let go of traditional filament ‘Edison’ light bulbs dating back to the late 1800s and embrace the new era of smart/intelli-

In conclusion, English says “LEDVISTA Lighting Ltd is delighted to be recognised by Public Sector magazine as winner of the Business Excellence Award 2014 for Energy Efficient LED Lighting. ”We look forward to playing our part in enabling and supporting Public Sector organisations towards sharply reducing energy costs and achieving carbon footprint reduction targets over the coming years.” www.ledvista.ie

Public Sector Magazine

At least 50% of the electricity consumed for lighting can be saved through switching to more energy efficient lighting technologies such as LED (light-emitting diode) lighting, also known as solid state lighting (SSL). Peter English, Managing Director at LEDVISTA Lighting contends that LED technology has emerged as the most energy efficient, environmentally responsible and sustainable lighting technology available. It has progressed well beyond specialty and niche applications and is now firmly established as a mainstream lighting source thanks to breakthrough advances such as lumens per watt performance and white light quality. “As a result of the continuing major technological advances in LED lighting, the potential to conserve energy and reduce carbon footprint is substantial. LEDs are profoundly more energy-efficient than all other forms of lighting: consuming 80% less electricity than incandescent or halogen bulbs; 50% less than fluorescent tubes; and up to 30% less than CFLs” he said.

gent lighting, enabled by LED and OLED” says Peter English and continues to state “We are inspired by the continuing technological advancements in LED lighting through 2014 with respect lumen efficacy (lumens per watt), light quality, widening range of options available as well as improvements coming in the key areas such as colour rendering (CRI) and dimming systems designed for LED. In addition, the falling costs in high quality LED lighting products now make the case to upgrade to LED more compelling than ever with shorter payback periods” English points out “While performance and cost will continue to trend favourably, they are more likely to be incremental as LED technology matures. Taking a stance to postpone investment until a better model comes out is now a bit like waiting for the newest and coolest laptop computer or tablet to hit the market. You would never have one if you keep procrastinating and you loose out far too much on the benefits to be yielded now – the opportunity cost is too high to ignore”.

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Thermodynamic Solar works 365 days a year!

55 degrees hot water guaranteed! IDEAL FOR IRISH CLIMATE

ADVANTAGES ✓ No risk of freezing pipes ✓ No risk of over heating ✓ No risk of airlocks ✓ Panels only weigh 8kg ✓ Panels 5 year warranty ✓ Panels orientation can be east , west or south ✓ Panels only require air temperature to work Email: sales@energypanel.ie Oﬃce: 00 353 42 974 9322 Mobile: 087 234 2058

Unit 9, Glencarn Centre, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan

OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

HIGH ENERGY AT ENERGY PANEL

Energy Panel are renewable energy heating specialists providing expert consultancy from design to installation of heating systems. Experts in Thermodynamic Solar, this new innovative technology is taking the solar market by storm. The product works in all weather conditions. It does not need sunshine yet it provides 55 degrees hot water 365 days a year. Public Sector Magazine

The company are established since 2001 trading as Dooheat and based in Castleblaney, Co Monaghan. They work extensively with local authorities and as Ollie Hughes explains, “local authorities in every county ultimately have to address the challenge of reducing carbon emissions in the commercial and domestic sectors. Energy panel Limited are perfectly poised to assist in this regard and we will be promoting our products to all local authorities with media and online marketing campaigns as well as scheduled meeting with decision makers to make them aware of our products.”

Hughes says that attention to detail is paramount when dealing with the public sector and delivery of a robust and reliable product. “Our main attribute is attention to detail; designing and communication with our clients in order to deliver winning result which ultimately reduces carbon emissions and provides major savings on fuel bills – something that is very relevant in current times.” He continues, “Energy panel products are ideal for the Irish climate and can provide heating and hot water at high efficiency to large commercial and domestic building which every public sector client need to address.” Hughes sees the public sector as a real growth area for his company in the medium to long term. His product portfolio is relatively unique to the Irish marketplace and while some may beg to differ, Irish weather is usually quite mild – ideal conditions for Thermodynamic heat pumps to operate in. These pumps can potentially save local authorities thousands on heating and hot water bills and this is where he sees room for massive growth. “My objective is to build the Energy Panel brand and increase its awareness in the Irish marketplace. With a unique money saving product we expect to expand our client portfolio to include architects, engineers, commercial and domestic clients. These are exciting times in the energy industry and we are well positioned to establish ourselves as the supplier of choice in the commercial sector.”

satisfying to see reward for hard work and dedication. I have been in the heating business quite some time and decided to set up Energy panel this year as a specialist company in renewable energy. This award tells me that I am doing exactly what I set out to do and that makes me feel very happy.” He concludes, “choosing Energy Panel products is the first step in reducing carbon emissions and providing heating and hot water at low costs for all sectors.”

Hughes is delighted to receive the Public Sector award for best Energy Efficient Product. “It is hugely

www.energypanel.ie

Phone: 053-9256804 Mob: 087-8242880 Email: info@solarelectric.ie Web: www.solarelectric.ie

Sick Of Rising Energy Costs - Generate your own Contact us to find out how to cut your overheads. Public Sector Magazine

45 kWp Tipperary Co. Co. Civic Offices, Nenagh

✓ Reduce your Electricity Bills. ✓ Sell Excess Back to the National Grid. ✓ Silent, Odourless and Maintenance Free. ✓ Excellent and Safe Return on Investment. ✓ Experts in Design, Operation and Installation of both Small and Large Scale Solar Systems.

✓ Turnkey Company from Design to Completion. ✓ Exceptional Customer Care and After Sales Service. ✓ 25 Year Performance Warranty.

Solar Electric Ireland Partners of the Sun - Leading the way in Ireland

6 kWp Ground Mounted ~ in a garden Co. Louth

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS

GO SOLAR Solar Electric Ireland is an Irish based, fully Irish owned company specialising in Solar Photovoltaic systems. They pride themselves on providing bespoke, turnkey systems, looking after everything from initial consultation to the design, supply and installation, followed up by an excellent aftercare and advisory service.

The recent announcement from Electric Ireland about the closure in Dec 2014 of the micro generation scheme to new customers just does not make sense according to Foley “ it’s very disappointing to see a decision like that been taken here in Ireland when at the same time the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon announced the results of their most comprehensive assessment to date, telling us that renewables worldwide will have to grow from their current 30% share to 80% of the power sector by 2050 to avoid dangerous climate change” Practicing what they preach, at Solar Electric Ireland all lighting has been replaced with LED lighting and standard electric heating has been replaced with state of the art electric heaters. Even the carport is energy efficient with 4kWp of PV installed on the roof which supplies electricity to the offices. An electric car charging point not only charges company electric cars, it’s also available to visitors who drive e-vehicles. Foley explains, “We purchased the EV to reduce our transport costs. As a result of all the energy saving initiatives Solar Electric Ireland have undertaken we have been awarded an EcoMerit certificate for our environmental awareness and reduction measures from Econcertive. Something we are extremely proud of”. Foley believes that during the recession and financial crisis most companies and individuals looked at energy overheads and how to reduce spending in these areas. Consumers became more aware of the savings both environmental and financial that could be made from things like LED lighting, insulation, solid fuel stoves etc. “People are now looking at what they can do next and this is where we fit in, to not alone introduce energy reduction measures but actually be the primary supplier of energy to the home or business.”

Teamwork is important at Solar Electric and as owner and MD; Foley says that he leads with actions rather than words. He feels that training and up-skilling staff boosts morale and boosts overall service “we are exclusive agents for SMA inverters in Ireland and we were awarded Advanced Installer status in 2013. We are the only company in Ireland to have this award. This involved several training sessions and exams based in the UK and Germany.” Foley believes that Ireland has shown good leadership in creating a more energy efficient and sustainable society but that government needs to support the PV industry to get the full benefit of what it has to offer in helping to meet our targets in 2020. He is very aware that energy and energy costs are high on people’s agendas at the present time and the fear of being reliant on fossil fuels from markets which are politically unstable is a real concern. Looking forward he sees the most significant change alongside wind and Solar PV electricity generation to be the increase in use of electric transport not only with cars for personal and domestic use but more importantly for commercial vehicles as well. “We have an ambitious target for EV`s in Ireland for 2020 but being a regular user of an EV myself, I know that this is a really good alternative energy usage for us given our location, an Island off Northern Europe.” Solar Electric Ireland is an energetic, highly motivated company with a clear commitment to change, innovation and energy efficiency across all sectors in the Irish market. They are clear winners in the field of Solar PV Systems. www.solarelectric.ie

Public Sector Magazine

The company’s sole focus is Solar PV systems and the team based in offices in Killanne, Rathnure, County Wexford are passionate about what they do. Owner and Managing Director Tom Foley explains that he has built the company using top quality German products and by consistently providing high levels of customer service. Solar Electric are active month on month installing domestic Solar PV systems for all types and sizes of homes, both old and new under the micro generation scheme from Electric Ireland while at the same time taking on major public sector installations including a 200kWp PV project for Tipperary County Council on nine Local Authority buildings; a 25kWp system at the Irish National Heritage Park in Wexford and a 7kWp system on the WEC building in Wexford town. The installation of a 12kWp system at Servier (Ireland) is currently in progress.

Public Sector Magazine

Working with the Dublin Local Authorities to achieve the public sector target of 33% energy efficiency savings by 2020.

www.codema.ie

Energy Awareness

Energy Policy

Energy in Buildings

Funding Facilitation

Project Management

Codema, The Loft, 2 - 4 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2 Ph: 01 707 9818

CRACK THE CODE

WITH CODEMA

In Europe, buildings account for over 40% of the total energy consumed and user behaviour accounts for a signiﬁcant proportion of this. While many people are aware of the importance of saving energy, there can be a lack of understanding of where signiﬁcant changes can be made. Dublin’s energy agency Codema addresses this gap by running awareness campaigns as part of the service it provides to the Dublin local authorities. These campaigns provide simple and effective information on how staff can play an active role in reducing energy consumption at home and at work. Over the past twelve months Codema has supported Dublin’s local authorities by helping them to improve energy efficiency in their buildings and reduce their energy bills. Dublin City Council has an annual energy bill in the region of €20 million; however, it is on track to reduce its energy consumption by 33 per cent by 2020. This translates as an annual saving of €6 million for the Council. Codema has identified the largest energy consumers among the hundreds of public local authority buildings in Dublin and has surveyed 120 of these buildings including libraries, leisure centers, offices and fire stations. In order to improve the energy efficiency of these buildings, however, investment is needed. The Energy Performance Contract (EPC) model is relatively new to Ireland but offers a more cost-effective approach to retrofitting. Codema is involved in a European-funded project called EESI2020 that offers the best information available on EPC implementation from countries such as Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic which allows them to share this knowledge with local authorities in Dublin and apply this method to retrofit projects. Codema’s Director Gerry Wardell says that the main focus now is on the city’s public buildings and the opportunities they present in terms of energy reduction. “There are thousands of energy accounts across the Dublin local authorities so getting a handle on these presents another opportunity to collect data and identify problem areas. Engaging with the buildings’ occupiers at all levels and encouraging positive behavioral change is another significant opportunity, as can be seen in the recent Think Energy campaign that Codema helped to implement in Dublin City Council. Citywide, the overall opportunities lie within buildings and the transport sector; commercial buildings, for example, could benefit from a District Heating Network that would further reduce carbon and energy output.” Codema has worked with the local authorities to develop their Climate Change Strategies and Sustainable Energy Action Plans and these interlock with national policy objectives. “We are also en-

Public Sector Magazine

OUTRIGHT WINNERS SERVICES FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY

gaged with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources through the consultation process for the Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland. Our main task is to ensure that national policy translates as local actions and that these actions are implemented to the highest standard in the local authorities” explains Wardell. Internally, Wardell places the professional development of each staff member very high on the company’s agenda. “We hold annual role reviews where we identify the achievements of individual staff members and discuss what their personal and professional needs are at that time and how these needs can be met. Codema offers a number of training opportunities including university courses, management programmes and one-day workshops. This presents a great opportunity for staff to widen their skill-set and apply these new skills to ongoing projects.” Wardell says that they are honored to receive the Excellence in Business Award for energy efficiency services in public buildings. Receiving this award “Recognises Codema’s commitment to working with Dublin’s local authorities to reduce the city’s CO2 emissions and achieve the ambitious climate and energy targets known as “20-20-20” targets.” www.codema.ie

Use the SMARTCITY experience to access: • Best practice design advice on how to select and apply energy efficient lighting across 50 outdoor and indoor application areas • Application specific guidance on how to save energy using Thorn’s ‘15 ways to make energy efficient lighting easy’ framework • Detailed lighting control information so you can achieve maximum energy savings • Up-to-date suggestions and information on existing, new and coming soon products, suitable for a specific application

SMARTCITY Public Sector Magazine

Light the cityscape with our interactive tool

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Try the SMARTCITY experience today: www.thornlighting.co.uk/ smart_city 1. Go to the website 2. Add to your favourites for your next visit 3. Click on the application area of interest 4. Read the design advice in the application guide 5. Review the suggested products

Thorn Lighting A4.inddSect_Ad_01.indd 1 SmartCity_UK_Public 1

06/11/2014 13/08/2013 11:51 09:37

LIGHT FANTASTIC Thorn was founded when Sir Jules Thorn started The Electric Lamp Service Company Ltd in 1928, dealing in incandescent ﬁlament lamps. In 1936, renamed Thorn Electrical Industries Ltd, the company was ﬂoated on the London Stock Exchange. Continuous post-war expansion followed and the organisation seized a variety of lighting, engineering and consumer electronics businesses, merging with EMI in 1979 to create Thorn EMI, which itself demerged in the mid-1990s. Thorn Lighting today is part of the Zumtobel Group, a globally trusted supplier of both outdoor and indoor luminaires and integrated controls. Their ‘smart’ and sustainable lighting solutions create comfortable, fulfilling environments for people to live and work in more than 100 countries around the world. From roads to cityscapes, sports facilities to buildings and their surrounds, the company has built a strong reputation for reliability, functionality and technically advanced design.

Public Sector Magazine

14 13 11:51 09:37

OUTRIGHT WINNERS LIGHTING PRODUCTS

Paul Coggins, Managing Director of Thorn Lighting UK & Ireland said: “Our mission is to provide products and services which make it easier for customers to specify, install and maintain good quality, energy efficient lighting. Efficiency and cost savings are paramount in the public sector and we are ideally poised to provide savings, efficiency and cutting edge lighting into this important sector.” The recent emergence of LED as a viable light source provides all users with the opportunity to reduce the amount of energy consumed which will result in lower energy bills. “At Thorn we see this as only part of the picture and that to take advantage of the potential and maximise this potential reduction of power we need to ensure that we not only use efficient lamp sources, but that we combine these with efficient luminaires and provide a lighting controls package to ensure that we are only using the correct amount of energy at the correct time, by taking this wider view we believe that in turn we can provide a lighting solution to provide the most efficient lighting scheme using the least number of luminaries required.” This approach he says can produce secondary benefits in that reducing the overall lighting load can reduce the cabling and distribution infrastructure required to support it. One of the key market sectors which can benefit from using LED products is exterior lighting. “New products have now become available to us which will allow us to not only maximize power reduction on internal lighting but now also allow us to achieve large savings on external road and amenity lighting as well.” Coggins continues, “At Thorn we are always looking at how we further improve, with LED sources

we are still working on first generation migration type products which has seen us adapt our current ranges to LED, while this has proved very successful for us the next step will be second generation LED products which will be developed from scratch. During this process we will be able to reduce the amount of material used as we are no longer confined to the size of a fluorescent lamp and can build products much smaller and slimmer. This will help us become more competitive and further reduce the cost of new products.” He concludes, “We are delighted to once again to be recognised for our commitment to providing first class leading energy efficient products. This award helps justify our approach and helps us differentiate ourselves in a heavily populated market. I would like to thank all members of the public sector for their continued support and encourage anyone who has a requirement for lighting, whether it is internal or external, large or small to please feel free to contact me or any member of the Thorn team here in Ireland.” www.thornlighting.com

Eurocondense three Public Sector Magazine

Floor Standing Condensing Boilers 125 to 600kW

Maximum Output on the Smallest Area The new floor standing condensing gas boiler, Eurocondense three, represents the highest evolution stage within the middle output range of gas fired condensing boilers. Available in eight outputs: 125, 170, 215, 260, 300, 430, 520 and 600 the Eurocondense three is designed with the customer, installer and specifier in mind. Using the very latest heating technology with a heat exchanger made from aluminium/silicon with a 10 year warranty* and a combustion system which delivers exceptional energy efficiency as well as advanced ultra low NOx performance, class 5. Up to 16 boilers can be connected in cascade. Energy Technology listed (ECA) *Terms and conditions apply

Established values. Leading edge technology.

www.pottertoncommercial.co.uk

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Potterton Myson Ireland Ltd. Tel: 01 459 0870 Fax: 01 459 0880 Email: sales@potterton-myson.ie www.potterton-myson.ie

26/11/2013 10:27

13 10:27

TURNING UP THE HEAT

Baxi Potterton Myson Ireland Ltd sell and distribute group products such as domestic and commercial boilers and are agents for all Myson branded equipment such as radiators, valves and controls. Baxi Potterton Myson Ireland Ltd also sell and distribute products for Circulating Pumps Ltd in the Irish market. Baxi Potterton Myson has had a hugely successful trading year in 2013 with growth in domestic and commercial gas boiler market shares. In 2014 the company moved to a brand new building in Ballymount, Dublin 12 where they developed a state of the art training facility offering free training on heating and hot water solutions to RGII gas installers and distribution partners. While the recession had a massive impact on the business, the company used this period to up-skill staff, to implemented IT and support systems that added efficiencies to daily work routines and they focused on business development in the commercial heating segment which now accounts for a substantial part of the business. When asked about Ireland’s performance in creating a more energy-efficient and sustainable society, Paul Clancy, MD comments. “We want to do the right thing but financial challenges can reduce the uptake or buy-in of many families who are struggling just to exist. It has been proven that whether it was the smokeless fuel initiative or the smoking ban, Irish people are prepared to do the right thing.” He does feel however that when it comes to energy conservation while great inroads are being made, more are needed. Government and industry should combine to build a greater awareness of energy efficiency in the home and provide simple and attractive supports to homeowners to help them make the energy efficiency improvements. When it comes to the pace of innovation in energy saving and how this is reflected in our daily lives Paul feels that “we are on the cusp of new developments in the heating and hot water industry particularly in how we control and interface with our heating, ventilation, air con and hot water systems. We will have a greater understanding of where our energy is used to best efficiency and of course where it is not, allowing us to make the appropriate changes to redress this.” These days the consumer is better informed than ever and this is a positive development because the customer knows what they want and they realise the benefit of quality efficient products. Paul

explains, “The internet provides the opportunity for customers to research solutions before they undertake any works. Strong brands at exceptional value are what the customer demands and this emphasis has helped our business where we can create real added value with established brands that can be trusted.” The future seems bright for Baxi Potterton Myson. The company is governed by parent company BDR Thermea in the Netherlands so world class standards are assured. Locally they also have a solid mission vision and values culture which is backed up with an imbedded CSR Policy. This together with an enlightened management style from MD Paul Clancy is an award winning combination. Paul concludes, “I trust and respect my team, I am passionate about maximizing my teams potential and I am highly driven to succeed.” www.potterton-myson.ie

Public Sector Magazine

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENERGY EFFICIENT BOILERS

www.aluproireland.ie

Recycling all your aluminium drinks cans, foil and aerosols is one of the most important things you can do to help the environment. This is because making aluminium from the raw material, bauxite, uses a lot of energy - while recycling the metal through a simple re-melt process is a massive 20 times more energy efficient. Put another way, recycling uses just 5% of the energy needed for primary production. And because aluminium can be recycled over and over again without losing its properties, the metal has a lifetime of different uses: about 75% of all the aluminium ever produced is still in circulation. The challenge now is to raise recycling rates for the aluminium we use as individuals mainly drinks cans, foil trays and aerosols.

Public Sector Magazine

Alupro Ireland, Ballinderry House, Enfield, Co Meath

Tel/mobile: 087 6016723 | Fax: 046 9555602 | Email: Karen@aluproireland.ie

Finalist in SEAI Awards 2014

- Implementation Specialist in Energy Management Systems incorporating web based DCS Energy software - Facilitate ISO 50001 CertiďŹ cation

http://www.dcsgroup.eu info@dcsgroup.eu +353 (0) 66 7181836

OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENERGY LEADERSHIP

ENERGY SAVER Recognised by Enterprise Ireland in 2010 as a high-potential start-up company, DCS Energy was set up in the Kerry Technology Park in Tralee in 2008. It was founded by Donal Sugrue who also owns the DCS Group, an energy company oﬀering energy management solutions which allow companies to track energy usage, identify wastage and adapt behaviour accordingly.

Finance Director Caroline Sugrue says that this year has been a progressive one for DCS Group, its customers and clients on the very winding road towards energy efficiency. “With the financial and economic constraints facing all businesses and public services, DCS Group along with our client’s customers has had to develop innovative and technologically sound solutions on the energy journey.” DCS Group using all the components of the business (design, manufacture, installation, maintenance and finance) have partnered with clients to take existing energy expenditure and utilise these costs to the client’s advantage. “We have provided a One Stop Shop for the deployment of numerous types of technologies, eg LED Lighting and proven the effectiveness of these projects through our web enabled DCS Software Tool allowing transparency and collaboration with our customers”. This can be seen in earnest through the implementation of funding via the National Energy Efficiency Fund where independent due diligence and the requirement to meet minimum return on investment criteria were met. Caroline observes that with current legislation requirements coming into play over the coming months there will be an onus on all businesses and public bodies to deal with the legal compliance of EC Energy Efficiency Directive – Article 8 and ESOS. DCS Group are ideally and strategically focused on delivering these requirements for new and existing customers which focuses on the business energy strategy and operational activity through › Standardisation of energy data (DCS Energy Web Portal) › Survey/ creation of energy assets/ opportunities (DCS Electrical)

› 1SO 50001/ EC Directive Article 8/ ESOS Compliance (DCS Group) › Continued verification support of Energy Management System (DCS Energy Saving) A high energy environment in every sense of the word, Caroline concludes “We look forward to working with our new and existing clients in delivering a sustainable and realistic energy strategy and implementation plan.” DCS Group has been short listed as a Winner of the SEAI Build Environments for 2014. www.dcsgroup.eu

Public Sector Magazine

After observing a growth in demand for energy efficiency technology in the multiple retail sector, Sugrue set up both DCS Energy Savings and Frontline LED, which supplies energy efficient lighting. The company’s first customer in 2009 was the Kerry Technology Centre and now DCS Energy has installations at over 200 sites in Ireland, where customers include Tesco, Jurys Hotels, the ESB, Kerry Group and the HSE.

With care and understanding come remarkable results… Most consultants just provide consultancy, but with our speciﬁc experience of the Irish market, we provide insight not simply information. This is something that our clients value and is one of the reasons why we have established ourselves as the leading technical service provider to the Irish wind industry.

Public Sector Magazine

Join us at the IWEA Autumn Conference and ﬁnd out how care and understanding can bring about remarkable results for your projects.

SERVICES AND CONSULTANCY

DEVELOPMENT PRE CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONS T: +353 1 845 5031 E: Ireland@windprospect.com www.windprospect.com

Wind Prospect irel A4.indd 1

06/11/2014 11:50

GREAT PROSPECTS

WITH WIND PROSPECT Wind Prospect is one of the most successful independent renewable energy companies in the world operating globally in all aspects of renewable energy development, construction, operation and advisory services. The company has developed and engineered wind-energy projects worldwide since building the UK’s second wind farm in 1992. Ken Boyne, Managing Director of Wind Prospect Ireland (WPI) is pleased with the engineering consultancy business here in Ireland which is enjoying a period of steady growth as the wind industry recovers from the regulatory issues that almost stalled the industry in 2011. “Most of our major clients are advancing one or more projects through the development cycle towards construction and this resulted in strong revenues in 2013 which have continued into 2014. We are currently providing project management and other technical support services on construction projects totaling 199MW with a further 315MW of projects being supported towards completion of financing – both record numbers for the business here in Ireland.” Consistency and high standards are vital and Boyne applauds the general standards in the industry while ensuring that his company keep on top of all developments “The general standard of engineering consultants in Ireland is high and as an industry we challenge each other to deliver a quality product to our clients. In our case, our Business Management System (BMS) was developed a number of years ago to capture and define the best practice within WPI so that staff are provided with a set of tools to deliver services to a defined high standard and that clients are presented with a consistent product – a vital benchmark to have during a period of growth. It has also led to streamlining and efficiency within the business that has helped us to stay competitive and contributed towards our continued success.” Maintaining skill levels is a priority for Boyne and “a young company like ours, working in a fairly dynamic industry, needs to empower staff and hence a key part of what we provide is an internal support network of senior specialists which allows staff to assume a level of responsibility commensurate with their level of experience and ability. We generally operate with relatively streamlined project teams so all staff get direct exposure to clients and projects which ensure the maximum opportunity to learn and advance. “ He says that this is balanced with what he believes to be the appropriate level of management oversight and governance. This ensures that the advice or solutions offered to clients are appropriate to the particular risks that Wind Prospect Ireland has been asked to manage. “This is key as ultimately these risks are of a commercial nature and can be the difference between a project succeeding or failing.”

Public Sector Magazine

14 11:50

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN WIND ENERGY SERVICES WITHIN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

As a business Wind Prospect Ireland have a number of long standing repeat clients. Boyne takes a hands-on approach by ensuring that he speaks regularly to each of these clients outside of the normal day-to-day project issues ensuring that any concerns of a general nature can be raised directly. “I believe that all business is fundamentally about the interaction between people and what we in Ireland do better than most is to treat with respect and good humor all those with whom we interact. This makes the difficulties of the business environment that little bit easier and occasionally even enjoyable.” The future looks bright for this progressive company with Boyne excited at the prospect of emerging technologies to expand his knowledge and client base, “We hope to diversify into other renewable technologies and to apply our knowledge and skills in project delivery into these areas. There are a number of technologies that are showing promise and it will be interesting to see which one advances to make a significant contribution to the energy mix in Ireland. And when it arrives, I hope that WPI will be the leading provider in that sector as it currently is in wind.” www.windprospect.ie

Public Sector Magazine

The Wilo-Stratos GIGA saves energy as early as the planning stage. Planning that is quick, easy and future-proof. Wilo high-efficiency pumps are ErP-compliant. We have the perfect model for every requirement. This makes planning easier and saves you time and money. A good point that you can also use on your customers.

Features and Benefits: ƒ Innovative high-efficiency pump for maximum overall efficiency based on a new Wilo glanded pump design ƒ Highly efficient EC motor (efficiency higher than IE4 limit values according to IEC TS 60034-31 Ed.1) ƒ New hydraulics ideally adapted to the EC motor technology ƒ Integrated electronic power adjustment ƒ Control range up to three times greater than in conventional electronically controlled pumps ƒ Extremely compact and space-saving design ƒ Simple operation due to tried-and-tested red-button technology and display ƒ Fault management tailored to HVAC applications ƒ High corrosion protection due to cataphoretic coating ƒ Standard condensation drainage ƒ Pump bases with threaded hole for foundation mounting

061 227566 | www.wilo.ie | sales@wilo.ie Unit B1 Corcanree Business Park Dock Road Limerick

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4:44:15

PUMP IT UP Caspar Ludwig Opländer founded the company in 1872 as a copper and brassware factory in Dortmund, thus laying the foundation for its development. Today, WILO SE is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-tech pumps with over 60 production sites and distribution companies and more than 7,000 employees worldwide. The Wilo SE group has achieved great success despite the challenges of recent economical times, “In view of the limited opportunities for economic growth that still exist in many parts of the world, it is commendable that we have managed to achieve, reach or exceed most of our ambitious targets,” said CEO Oliver Hermes. Wilo SE is in its fourth successive year of record sales showing highest operative profits ever and with the successful launch of new, innovative products and pioneering investments, the Wilo Group continued its relentless growth rate. “We were able to expand more dynamically than the market as a whole, although the global macro-economic situation has not recovered as well as was forecast”. The financial crisis restricted investment and capital expenditure on energy efficient products, however, Wilo Ireland campaigned and surveyed a number of private and public sector institutions in Ireland in compiling energy surveys to demonstrate the financial benefits of energy solutions by pro-actively replacing older and less efficient pumping systems with newer high efficiency technology. This has triggered much interest and also caught attention from financial institutions as a segment for potential real investment which will encourage a positive growth in this sector. Mr. Derek Elton, WILO Ireland Sales Director feels growth could be further encouraged by additional campaigns showcasing the benefits of retrofitting high efficiency pump systems. Consideration should be given to offering more Government incentives for pump upgrading along with the EU Directives that came into effect in January 2013. Energy savings mean cost savings and innovative products such as the Wilo Stratos range of pumps have been available for some time and are the norm in many EU countries including Ireland. The commercial sector has embraced the concept in recent years; the domestic sector lags behind however since the EU Directives were introduced in 2013. Nevertheless, Mr. Elton says that within the next decade major changes are expected that will benefit energy sustainability throughout Ireland. For example, the ErP Directive for glandless circulation pumps (Regulation (EC) 641/2009) is setting

increasingly higher efficiency level values. Wilo has exceeded the requirements for some time now being the first company to introduce ECM technology with the Wilo Stratos high efficiency pump range as far back as 2001. The new directives now insist on the use of this technology to comply with the EEI (Energy Efficiency Index) criteria to save energy both European and Worldwide with corresponding reduction in CO2 emmissions. There is no doubt that Wilo are committed to excellence in energy efficiency, their philosophy being short and to the point, ‘Pioneering for You’. In just three words, it explains our goal. As one of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers in the industry, ‘Pioneering for You’ symbolises our aspiration to continuously improve our technical knowledge and expertise in order to further cement our status as an innovation and technology leader. www.wilo.ie

Public Sector Magazine

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS

Public Sector Magazine

CONSERVATION SERVICES

110, Amiens Street,Dublin,1 Phone: 01 4505200 Mobile: 087 412 1550 email: info@consave.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BUILDING ENERGY MANAGEMENT

THE POWER

TO CONSERVE New buildings are increasingly being provided with a unified IP backbone creating a Smart Building. A key area where the benefits of this can be seen is in energy efficiency and Conservation Services are perfectly placed to steer clients towards efficiency and cost saving.

Older systems are often closed says Dunne, using unique communications protocols and software, tieing the customer to specific vendors and limiting the possibilities for integration however recently, there has been a major change in the controls industry with a move to the use of open communication protocols. This allows for easier integration and free access over web enabled devices. Dunne says that the days of a customer being required to pay an annual licence fee for their building control software are numbered and the possibility of extending one vendor’s system using anothers is now commonplace. “In the past, the person assigned the task of programming a system often had a poor understanding of the design intent or the energy consumption implications of the operating strategy they applied to the plant. It was often difficult for a third party to determine the quality or performance of a system without access to the original strategy, with some vendors retaining strategy details and denying third party access, claiming ownership of their programming” so the first step he says is an audit using the current data available. Next is a review of management and staff practices. “Having your workforce aware of and implementing proper procedures can result in significant saving on energy consumption without major expenditure. Some organisations have achieved up to 15% savings through this process alone” says Dunne. “Then you review your building control systems to establish what is required to achieve integration. Identify what equipment you need to install to improve your data acquisition possibilities, for example, electricity and water check meters.” Finally he says, “you create a platform from which to access and evaluate all your building data. Re-configure your systems to provide optimal energy efficiency. Using all the possibilities your system now provides, including remote diagnostics, you can improve alarm response and problem resolution times and achieve savings on maintenance costs.”

With the new system in place a re-audit allows the client to consider improvements to primary plant. “Given the new data available, your decision making process will be enhanced, enabling you to identify where you can achieve the best return on your capital expenditure” says Dunne. He concludes, “Through our network of partners we offer various products and services. For example, lighting is an area where in the past decade there has been major advances in LED technology, providing greatly reduced energy and maintenance costs.” “We are pleased to partner with NoviLED Ireland, offering a building LED lighting design service. Whatever the client needs, we are confident we can provide solutions that will improve the performance of their assets and assist in achieving their energy conservation objectives.”

Public Sector Magazine

Damian Dunne, Managing Director explains, “Under the old, independently controlled systems, upwards of 10% of energy was wasted due to excessive run time and equipment problems. It is important to remember that while problems do not always result in an impact on comfort or production, it will immediately result in higher energy costs.” As an example, the New Building Institute in America has stated that 71% of all HVAC units have some kind of problem that affects performance with an average of 1.9 problems per unit.

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SUSTAINABLE ENERGY (SEAI) AWARDS The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has a mission to play a leading role in the transformation of Ireland to a society based on sustainable energy structures, technologies and practices. SEAI is partly ﬁnanced by Ireland’s EU Structural Funds Programme co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Union.

public buildings. Over 20% of its housing stock will have insulation upgrades by the end of 2014.

Speaking on the night, Brian Motherway CEO, SEAI said: “Communities and businesses all over Ireland are taking control of their energy issues, reducing their costs and exploiting local resources. Sustainable energy is a great opportunity for Ireland. We have high ambitions in this area and the Awards recognise the leaders that are making it happen.” Other winners included Aurivo Dairy Ingredients which won the Leadership Award for their on-going energy efficiency and training projects achieving a 70% reduction in oil consumption following the installation of a biomass boiler using locally sourced fuel.

Comharchumann Fuinnimh Oileáin Árainn Teo (Aran Islands Renewable Energy Ltd) was named overall winner at this year’s Sustainable Energy Awards 2014 for its range of energy projects to develop the islands as energy self-sustaining and carbon neutral. The 11th Sustainable Energy Awards gala event in Dublin hosted by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and sponsored by Electric Ireland, reward excellence in energy innovation amongst Irish organisations of all sizes, across the business community and public sectors. Residents on the three Aran Islands collaborated to establish a co-operative to reduce the islands’ dependence on imported fossil fuels and deliver energy independence by 2022. This co-op – the Aran Islands Renewable Energy Ltd – is trialling innovations in renewable energy, running energy awareness programmes amongst resident groups and undertaking retrofit programmes in homes and

Cork Lower Harbour Energy Group, a collaboration of DePuy Synthes, GSK, Janssen Biologics and Novartis, which was recognised for its project which saved 30% on the collective energy bill by installing three wind turbines on site. Cork Airport won the Public Sector Award for meeting its 2020 national energy efficiency target six years ahead of schedule. The Small Business Award went to Ballyliffin Lodge Hotel and Spa in Donegal for its success in reducing the use of electricity, heat and water in the hotel. Jim Dollard, Executive Director of Electric Ireland said: “Electric Ireland is once again delighted to have partnered with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland for the Sustainable Energy Awards. We continue to see ambitious projects with big savings from all the participants in this competition but it is as always a pleasure to see them surpass our expectations and spur the energy industry on to bigger and better things.” www.seai.ie/energyawards.

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Congratulating all the winners, Mr. Alex White TD, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources commented: “There is a national movement towards a more sustainable energy future which is evident in the sheer range of organisations honoured by SEAI at the annual Sustainable Energy Awards tonight. The Aran Islands Renewable Energy Ltd is just one example of the way in which energy efficiency has been embraced by communities and local organisations throughout the country. Delivering a sustainable energy future will make our homes and businesses more comfortable, healthier and cheaper to run, while replacing expensive imported fossil fuel with domestic jobs. I would like to commend all the participants tonight and urge more communities in Ireland to get active and get involved in local energy saving projects.”

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST SOLAR PV PRODUCTS

WARIK ENERGY When it comes to renewable energy solutions, solar PV is the way forward and leading the charge in the micro-generation of electricity through the installation of solar PV systems is Warik Energy. Based in Donabate, County Dublin, Warik Energy is a specialist distributor of products and solutions in the energy sector and boast a particularly strong track record in relation to the micro-generation of electricity.

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With spiralling energy costs, there is an onus on everybody from homeowners to public and private sector building managers and the construction industry to improve energy efficient and using renewable technologies.

Owners of existing public building who take steps to improve energy ratings with renewable technologies such as solar PV will be given Display Energy Certificates (DEC) which are the large public building equivalent of the domestic BER. And now, for all new buildings, Part L3(b) requires every new building, domestic or otherwise, to have a portion of energy derived from renewable source to comply with building regulations. So all builders are now choosing renewable technology on new housing projects and while solar thermal was the traditional choice that is changing to solar PV. While solar PV is still a relatively new technology, advances in its development have led to lower prices making it financially viable.

“Solar PV is hugely cost effective, efficient, easy to install and has very low maintenance,” explains Warik Energy General Manager, Paul Mimnagh. “As there are no moving parts, very little can go wrong and it has a very long life because of the nature of the system. “Manufacturers give long warranties, up to 25 years - this is the industry norm for this type of equipment. It is relatively problem free and the Inverter - the electronic part - is very reliable and the standard warranty for this is 10 years. The energy output is very predictable, year on year, it averages out and does not vary,” says Mr Mimnagh. Performance is equally predictable he says even in winter – while there will be less energy obviously than in summer, these systems are being used in Scandanavia and Scotland which gets less light than us. In Ireland, we get the same sun as in the southern part of the UK; we have very similar solar radiation. Paul says: “we can put PV systems on roofs of buildings – we have done it for Mayo County Council on various locations.” There is no capital cost for the client, they retain their existing electricity supply but the solar PV system comes with a separate generator for a smaller supply of electricity. “The energy supply that comes from the solar panels on the roof is metered and the company pays for that as energy is consumed. The raw material is free as the sun is free and as the years go by, they systems pays for itself.” Warik Energy has also been involved in solar PV installations in social housing projects proving the important point that with solar PV energy, everyone can participate in energy production unlike wind where only large companies benefit. “Everyone has a roof; house-owners, public sector, private sector. With solar PV there are no planning issues, the panels look like velux windows, so visually there is no effect” explains Paul. County councils and local authorities are increasingly choosing this technology because of the ease of fitting, the lack of comeback and cost benefits, plus the occupants of homes with this renewable technology will get the benefit of the solar PV panels for life. Paul firmly believes that solar PV is the best way forward and represents the future of renewable energy and micro-generation of electricity. “There are no emissions, no negativity, it is a silent, passive generator of electricity,” he says. “When you talk about ‘clean green’ energy, solar PV is the way forward.” www.warikenergy.com

OUTRIGHT WINNERS RECYCLING

YES YOU CAN Every human being has a part to play in protecting this precious world and making our planet greener, less toxic and more inhabitable. Recycling aluminum packaging avoids landﬁlling and prevents air and water pollution, in addition aluminum can be recycled endlessly without losing its properties and so has a lifetime of uses. About 75% of all the aluminium ever produced is still in circulation. year was exceeded and it is hoped that by the end of this year that the program will be up and running in NCAD, IT Tallaght, DKIT, Dublin Business Schools and DIT, which will complete their installation in old and new campuses for November 2014 with a total of over 50,000 students using it.

Alupro Ireland has had direct input on consultations from the proposed deposit scheme to the PRI Review, as well as Household Waste Regulations and lobbied stakeholders on the exact characterization of aluminium packaging on the market and the installation of eddy current separation of aluminium from bottom ash in Irish MSW incinerators. The company collates data on the annual tonnage of aluminum packaging placed onto the market and recycled and reviews which areas require assistance to achieve recycling targets. The overall result in the past seven years has seen a substantial increase in aluminium packaging recycling – particularly cans, with increasing emphasis on the behavioral change needed to capture ‘on the go’ tonnes.

Looking to the future Alupro Ireland Director Karen Mahon said; ‘We would like to see further growth with Every Can Counts in the events, leisure and hospitality sectors and there are plans to expand Every Can Counts further with educational facilities, in the coming year and with the current review of the targets for Aluminium packaging by the European Commission, we would like to increase the number of campaigns undertaken to include flexible aluminum foils and trays, encouraging householders to wash squash and pop, recycling items they may not have considered recycling before’.

Alupro Ireland manages the Every Can Counts programme raising awareness about ‘on the go’ consumption and highlighting to companies, event organizers and educational facilities, the value in providing on site segregation for the recycling of cans. Attending events including Bloom, Fléadh Ceoil, Electric Picnic, Body & Soul, Castle Palooza and gardening events such as the Rose Festival with a reach of well over 500,000 people in the 2014 season. This year they have provided the Every Can Counts awareness programme to over 150 companies and local authorities with over 150,000 people directly informed and using the programme. Every Can Counts is also running in many local authority buildings leisure facilities and community centres and since working with Future in Food and Origin Green companies in the Food & Beverage industry are gaining ground. Every Can Counts will also promote at Future in Pharmaceuticals Ireland in February 2015 with a view to encouraging the pharmaceutical sector to get involved in can collection onsite at their manufacturing facilities around Ireland. Every Can Counts is working in various campuses and schools. A target of four campuses in the first

In addition to the Every Can Counts Programme, Alupro Ireland partners with Tidy Towns Can It! Award and Eco Unesco Eco-Alu Design for Sustainability Award specific awareness raising campaigns aimed at aluminium recycling and design for reuse, in the community and schools.

Recycling aluminium packaging is one of the most important things that we can do for the environment. Alupro Ireland are deserved winners of the Public Sector magazine award for Best Environmental Awareness Initiative 2014, for their efforts to build on impressive results to date and in expanding the awareness programmes currently available. Every Can Counts toward improved recycling rates. www.aluproireland.ie

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Alupro Ireland is part of a growing network of European network of representatives, specifically responsible for the countrywide review and encouragement of aluminum packaging recycling. Liaising with industry stakeholders, departmental agencies, local authorities and the general public its sole aim is to increase aluminum packaging recycling in Ireland. Alupro Ireland is non-profit and relies upon industry stakeholder funding to encourage recycling through its many awareness campaigns. It is currently solely funded by the European Aluminium Association and Beverage Can Makers of Europe and supported in its activities by Repak.

Public Sector Magazine

Water Conservation Leak Detection Rainwater Harvesting

Industrial Commercial Domestic

OUTRIGHT WINNERS WATER CONSERVATION

MAKING WAVES IN

THE INDUSTRY

Their water conservation solutions team can provide a first class survey of a premises – business or private - followed by a free of charge report. This report includes site specific recommendations including the most cost effective way to enable clients to reduce water charges by an average of 50%. Recent coverage of water issues has meant rapid growth for the company. Currently they are putting the resources in place to deal with the increased demand for water services, something that has seen a huge increase since the introduction of domestic water charges. Keen to deliver the best value for money, Corcoran Water are offsetting the sizable investment in infrastructure and staffing with the increase in volume of new business. In response to a massive demand from our customers the company supply and install rainwater harvesting systems that are made in Ireland and fully comply with all EU standards. At both domestic and corporate level a team of highly trained engineers work with clients to create a partnership for first class, cost efficient services. Niall Corcoran, CEO of Corcoran Water says, “We envisage that our business will increase sufficiently over the next 18 months to enable us to create another 15-20 full time positions in addition to the 56 outsourced positions already in place.” As water usage means increased water charges, a reliable detection and repair service was never more relevant than it is today. We may be surrounded by water but its preservation and conservation is as much a cost consideration as it is an ecological necessity. “This award is hugely important to us” says Corcoran “It shows

recognition from within the public sector that we are winning the battle against wastage – waste of a precious resource and waste of badly needed funds.” www.waterleakireland.com

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Corcoran Water Management is a fully Irish owned company dedicated to assisting Irish business in reducing their costs through the provision of a complete water management service. Together with water management solutions for all sectors whether industrial, domestic or commercial, the company also provides a nationwide leak detection and conservation service to private and public enterprise.

ARCHITECTS Fully customisable mats & coloured garden chippings Crumb Rubbers’ range of granulate rubber and matting products help to make areas safer, quieter and more colourful.

Aerial view of playground. D.C. Garden Designs

Our sound proofing mats effectively reduce noise pollution. We have designed a thick, dense and durable mat that can absorb both noise from footfall and airborne noises. Our products are fully tested and playground mats are up to BS EN 1177 standard.

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We have a full range of colours and mats can be customised to include company colours and logos.

BENEFITS: • • • • •

Simple to install Aesthetically pleasing Durable Cushioned Sound proofing

WHERE YOU CAN USE THE MATS: • • • • •

Playgrounds Parks Walkways Gyms Athletics tracks

• • • •

Drains Flower beds Patios For noise reduction

“The mats are perfect as a ballast for the protection of roof waterproofing on industrial and commercial developments where service foot traffic can cause serious damage. They can also be of practical use for architectural landscaping in public gardens, walkways and play areas. The mats are both robust and durable products that make surfaces safer to walk and play on. The re-cycled rubber mats and granulate are long lasting products that protects the environment and with a wide range of colours can be designed to compliment and enhance any outdoor space. I have no hesitation in specifying the Crumb Rubber range of products for their practical use and long term performance.” Ken Dodd, Specialist Roofing Consultant

www.crumbrubber.com Crumb Rubber products are made from recycled rubber and are 100% Irish

For a free quote call: +353 (0)42 938 2611 or email: info@crumbrubber.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS FOR PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE

Crumb Rubber employs 24 people at their plant in Dromiskin, which is just outside Dundalk in County Louth. All Crumb Rubber product are guaranteed Irish and include coloured rubber landscape chips for gardens, landscaping and play areas, granulate rubber for arenas, gallops, walkers, artificial playing pitches and poured in place surfaces. Using Crumb Rubber products provides a surface that has an improved safely rating, is durable, weather resistant, easy to maintain and eco friendly. Crumb Rubber Ireland are proud patrons of Agri Aware promoting a greater awareness of modern agriculture, the rural environment, animal welfare, food quality and safety among the non-farming community. There are excellent school programmes to build children’ s understanding of agriculture and the link between farming and the food they eat each day. The school yard is the ideal setting for Crumb Rubber products. The cushioning and absorbing abilities of rubber mats are kind to bodies and the soft landing has less impact on legs and knees when running and jumping not to mention the safety aspect they provide. “The benefit from using Crumb Rubber mats is the reduction of cuts and grazes in the playground. This has the added advantage that teachers have to spend less time attending to these injuries.’ Said Ruarí Mac Donaill Principal, Kilsaran School Crumb Rubber mats are fully tested to BS EN 117 standards making them the perfect choice for crèches and playgrounds. The mats can be colour coded for aesthetic value or to design game pads or walkways. The colour coding has been particularly beneficial to help children with special needs play in safely.

This eco-friendly, cost effective Irish product ticks so many boxes and the application for the product is vast. Little wonder therefore that Crumb Rubber are receiving the recognition that they deserve throughout the public sector and in their award for best playground surface. www.crumbrubber.ie

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Crumb Rubber Ireland Ltd was set up in 2003 to recycle end of life tyres taking them completely out of the waste stream and up-cycling them into new products. The company is the only facility to produce a full range of rubber granulate and matting in Ireland. This cradle to cradle process produces eco-innovative products for the agriculture, horticulture, construction, child care, equestrian, leisure, golf and sports industries.

Oh no. Not another “bio” system. That’s what Terry Hutt thought when he named his company in 2011, after seeing a need for an aﬀordable cost alternative solution to Ireland’s wastewater woes.

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T he last few years has seen tremendous changes in the way Ireland views wastewater management and local authorities, companies and newer developments have been put under the microscope as to the treatment of eﬄuent and the ability to safely return it to the environment. en

Terry, a Canadian born architect has been practising architecture in Ireland for 8 years and with the downturn in the economy and the building bust making it harder to make a living, decided to change his focus to providing an aﬀordable alternative to the traditional methods of wastewater treatment and raise the bar in the nal level tr of treatment the system provides for one oﬀ homes to purpose built systems of up to 10,000 people populations. Their partner is a Lithuanian company that has been developing and manufacturing high level wastewater treatment systems since 1998, and has speciic patented technology that treats the wastewater to a very high level.

Some of the ner points; CE Marking. All domestic units are serialized and conform to the most recent European standard for pre-packaged treatment plant. A ugust plants undergo a speciic testing to “raise the bar” by adopting a rigorous regime known as the Veolia Protocol for their conformity. This adds a higher level of testing taking the unit to 300% capacity for weeks and also dormancy for 3-4 weeks ensuring the units will work under very adverse conditions to simulate highs & lows. ad ISO 9001, ISO 14001 – The Company adheres to strict process controls which ensure best manufacturing practises. No chemicals. The plant uses the biological process to clean the effluent without the use of chemicals or detergents. No Offensive Odours. The process that is behind the patented technology treatment provides odour free operation in both small and large scale applications. H igh Grade of Effluent. The outtow from the unit has been treated to a high degree with levels as low as BOD: 5mg/l, SS: 3 mg/l, Total P: <2mg/l, NH4-N: 1.3mg/l

Cillin Hill Business Centre, Dublin Road, Kilkenny 01 5479318

www.biopro.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS SEWAGE TREATMENT

WAR ON WASTE As the world turns to environmentally friendly technologies, August Biopro has the ability to clean waste water to the highest standard without chemicals, tertiery treatment or secondary processes outside of their own reactors.

In September of 2012 a symposium was held sponsored by the EPA at Trinity College Dublin for domestic water treatment and disposal systems. Dr Donata Dubber gave a presentation on the suitability of packaged wastewater treatment systems for direct surface water discharge in rural Ireland. She recommended further developments in key areas that are delivered by August Biopro equipment; total nitrogen removal technologies to meet discharge limits for sensitive areas and total phosphorous removal. The EPA stated that they are hesitant to grant a discharge licence to a residential home or group of homes, stating that phosphorous removal via chemical precipitation is too hard to maintain and monitor as a personal residence and total nitrogen levels can be too high for most discharge points. They were also hesitant with regard to the ongoing maintenance. “With this in mind our new line of biological waste water treatment units will treat the waste water without any chemical dosing, tertiery treatment or filters and are maintained with a minimum of service, and are available with 24/7 monitoring to ensure compliance at all times” explains Hutt. “All these levels are achieved without any harmful chemicals or secondary treatment or filtering. We can treat waste water to a level that supercedes most municipal systems that are discharging millions of litres of effluent a day into the same surface waters to which we are trying to protect.” August Biopro sewage treatment products are under the asupices of the public sector on a regular basis. Whether it is the EPA or local authorities, the company engage with the client to ensure they understand the innovative methods of sewage treatment and the difference they make to the environment, in an industry where we are being fined daily for our inability to conform to the European directives for sewage treatment. As their patented process of VFL (vertical flow labyrinth) technology can be applied to populations of 4 to 40,000 people “we need to let both the EPA and the local authorities understand we can clean waste water to the highest standards in Europe suitable for dis-

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Managing Director Terry Hutt explains “August Biopro can supply a solution to the public sector that will treat sewage to a level suitable for discharge to surface waters. This technology helps councils and local authorities with sites that do not have suitable land for ground water discharge.”

charge to surface waters, eliminating the need for percolation areas in some cases” says Hutt. Asked how he feels about winning the Public Sector magazine award Hutt says “We are surprised and delighted to be not just nominated but the overall winners for sewage treatment. This award gives us the clarity that we are doing something right and the balance of excellence in our innovative product line, quality assurance and attention to customer satisfaction is making a difference in our industry.” He concludes, “we have and will continue to turn this industry on its back. It is all very fine to build a sewage treatment plant but if it costs 15% of the capital cost to maintain annually, what kind of investment is that? Our plants work on a minimalist approach where energy consumption is lowered and the overall design means less moving parts to break down.” Looking to the future the company will take their line of sewage treatment global and work on projects like helping third world countries make the most of the little potable water they have. With a tagline of ‘“Solutions for humans and nature” August Biopro are set for a bright and sustainable future. www.biopro.ie

Visit Busy Bee’s

Public Sector Magazine

the home of pre-loved retro and vintage furniture.

See the wonderful up-cycled pieces Visit our daily offers on our Facebook page Busy Bee’s furniture Or call in to see us at: Merchants Yard, East Wall Road, Dublin 3 Tel: 018559641 www.busybees.ie Sunflow FP.indd 1

19/05/2014 11:43

BUSY BEES

AND SUNFLOWERS The vast amount of high quality reusable goods which go to waste is a huge negative but turning it on its head and making something out of nothing has provided a successful business for Sunﬂower Recycling. “One man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure” says manager Bernie Walsh and Sunﬂower Recycling can indeed create treasures with a little ‘up-cycling’. The company was established in Dublin’s inner city in 1995 at a time when there was not a lot else being done in the field of office recycling or reuse. With an initial customer base of Small Local Businesses the client base has grown exponentially to include government departments and civic offices as well as DIT’s in the city and many well-known retailers and offices.

Public Sector Magazine

14 11:43

OUTRIGHT WINNERS RECYCLING

The company has gotne from strength to strength and indeed has spread its wings to establish a furniture reuse section named Busy Bee’s where householders can make use of a collection service for old furniture (or as Busy Bee’s prefer to call it pre-loved furniture). Walsh explains, “Busy Bees not only recycle, prepare and resell pre loved furniture, we also provide a removal service for unwanted household furniture in perfectly good condition. So client’s can forget about hiring vans, skips & trailers, transporting, dumping and wasting perfectly valuable items, we take it away for a minimal fee and upcycle what we can which benefits the individual, the community and the environment.” It seems like a real win-win. Busy Bee’s take old pieces of furniture and up-cycle them into contemporised pieces. They also take vintage pieces and make them bespoke for individuals and corporate environments. This work has brought the company to the attention of visual display artists and window dressers who seek out unusual pieces for their displays. This is a whole side of the business that was unexpected but now hugely successful. “Our up-cycled furnishings are in outlets like Kilkenny Design who use them as an unusual backdrop for their products in-store and also in window dressings all over Ireland” says Walsh. It’s not just Kilkenny Design who have seen the benefit of this she says, “Cleary’s has also used our service for visual merchandising in store and in window displays. Harvey Norman used old pieces for a re-use display and Carousel in Wicklow St not only display our pieces, they also sell small once off pieces for Busy Bee’s.” Busy Bee’s has now moved to the Merchants

Market on the East Wall Rd and is in the process of improving its customer service by making sale pieces available on Facebook and online with daily offers and online sale day’s. You certainly get the impression that there are a lot of Busy Bee’s in Sunflower Recycling. With a tag line of “saving the planet one armchair at a time” this is a company with vision and commitment to positive recycling. www.sunflowerrecycling.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS LEAK DETECTION & LEAK MITIGATION

CRYSTAL CLEAR Ken Lester, Managing Director of Eirewater started his career in Guinness leading to his work on designing and building valve and pressure reduction technology for the company. He has extensive experience in water management and conservation and is a member of the International Association of Hydro-Environmental Engineering Research.

Eirewater are a relatively new company. Established in 2011 the core business is leak detection, water management and water conservation. They have invested over a quarter of million euro in developing the company and they intend to further enhance growth by generating new employment within the sector to ensure that they provide the highest quality service available. “We don’t just meet our customers’ expectations, we surpass them” says Ken. Having recently acquired new premises in Dublin, the company hope to expand further by offering a range of accredited training courses for the commercial and public sector. They are also developing a bespoke engineering technology. Ken explains, “We put our heads together to design water saving and monitoring technology. We currently have a number of prototypes going through the test phase. On completion of testing and in conjunction with business partners we are hoping to expand this operation by developing a manufacturing base within Ireland to supply the products firstly to the domestic market and ultimately for export. Our ultimate goal is to save every drop of water wherever we go.” Domestic operations are steadily growing due to innovation, competitive marketing, structured programmes and bespoke in-house technology. Eirewater have been working extensively in the educational sector, specifically with schools by implementing new technologies to reduce water consumption and raise awareness. As part of this program they offer a certificate of achievement to schools that pass high standards of water conservation. This is further enhanced by a new programme that will offer schools the assurance that they no longer have to worry about potential water leaks.

From a commercial perspective the company has worked with some of the country’s leading engineering and building firms. They offer technical advice, leak detection and pipe tracing services. “We have the strength and depth to offer a holistic approach to water management, all the way from determining consumption to final commissioning of a practical and efficient water tight system. We’ve successfully managed to reduce water consumption for many leak free companies, sometimes reducing their bills by over 50%. We can normally do this with a payback period of less than six months” explains Ken. A young and dynamic company Eirewater were selected as outright winners for leak detection and mitigation – an achievement they are enormously proud of. Ken concludes, “Our experience with the commercial sector has taught us a lot. We are looking to develop new initiatives with the public sector and we have several proposals that we believe will see real and tangible savings. We are focussed on proving just how effective we can be not just by being aspirational, but by delivering real results. www.eirewater.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Ken heads up a 5 strong management team consisting of 5 industry experts - Tim is a Chartered Engineer who ensures that the company is compliant with all applicable regulations and legislation plus he is responsible for quality control and monitoring standards. Tom is the logistics expert with a unique knowledge of industry and commercial balance. Frank has responsibility for commercial finance, risk management and compliance and Justin looks after operations, administration, personnel, health & safety.

67 Ken Lester Managing Director of Eirewater celebrating the PSM award at recent works completed by Eirewater at Audi North Dublin with Audi Dealer Principal Vincent Murphy and Justin Burns Eirewater Operations

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FINGAL AWARDS Over 400 people from throughout the Fingal Region celebrated Business Excellence and Corporate Responsibility at the Fingal Business Excellence & Corporate Responsibility Gala Awards Evening in the Crowne Plaza Dublin Northwood. Guests included the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mags Murray, Minister James Reilly T.D., Fingal County Council Chief Executive, Paul Reid, Director of Economic Development, Ethna Felten, Senator Darragh O’Brien, Cllr Anne Devitt, Chambers Ireland CEO, Ian Talbot, Representatives from the Arab Irish Chamber, South Dublin Chamber, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Chamber, ITLG and Ireland-Gateway to Europe. Speaking on the night, Siobhan Kinsella, President, Fingal Dublin Chamber said “It is a huge honour to be the Chamber President in this the Chamber’s 20th anniversary year and tonight is my favourite night of the year in the Fingal Dublin Chamber calendar. The celebration of Excellence in Business endeavours is always important, particularly given how difficult the awards are to win. “Tonight we celebrate both tenacity and excellence in our business community and I congratulate each and every one of the companies for their success in reaching the gala awards presentation evening. I know Spot Check our independent judges had huge challenges this year as a result of the caliber of the submissions” said Siobhan. This is the twelfth Annual Fingal Business Excellence

Awards and these awards are a hallmark of excellence for all businesses in the area. The Chamber Awards recognise and congratulate the business leaders who drive innovative business processes, product development, enterprise, sustainability and overall business success across all sectors. An esteemed panel of independent judges from Spotcheck assessed the companies from around Fingal that made it through to the shortlist stage of the awards. From nearly two hundred applications the judges selected the finalists and winners. Winners were chosen for their business accomplishments as well as their dynamism, focus and ethical standards. There were 22 award winners in total, with Louise Phelan (Vice President of Global Operations EMEA) PayPal, the recipient of the JC Savage Fingal Business Person of the Year Excellence Award 2014. The Chamber Chief Executive, Tony Lambert commented “Over the past few years the businesses in Fingal have been working hard to keep themselves afloat and I think the hard work is finally beginning to pay off. There is growth in the local economy again and the message is we have survived and the only way is up.”

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70 Public Sector Magazine

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BUSINESS NETWORK ORGANISATION

ALL FINE AT FINGAL

The Chamber Council also expressed delight at the recognition. “This is a wonderful tribute to the hard work of the Chamber staff and Council in representing the business community in the Fingal Region” said Chamber President Siobhan Kinsella. At the presentation ceremony in the stunning setting of Malahide Castle the Chamber was delighted to have the Mayor of Fingal Cllr Mags Murray and the Chief Executive of the Council, Paul Reid present. Fingal Dublin Chamber has always understood the importance of working closely with public bodies whether it be Fingal County Council at the local level or government departments and semi-state companies at a national level. “We fully participate in all consultative processes in the public sector to ensure the voice of the business community is heard and understood” said CEO, Tony Lambert. “As a Chamber of Commerce we are committed to delivering value to our members through a variety of opportunities to network, connect and engage with the public sector. As the region’s largest business organisation we also provide advice, support, referrals and representation to help businesses grow and develop.” As an award winning Chamber Lambert is confident that this award will greatly assist efforts in promoting awareness of the Fingal Dublin Chamber brand and services in public sector organisations which are vital to the continued economic development of the region. The Chamber is now engaged in key economic development strategies to grow the number and range of companies in the area thus ensuring a wide range of jobs for the large number of young people in the Fingal area. They are also committed to promoting business excellence and corporate responsibility across all business sectors and this is exemplified through the Annual Fingal Dublin Business Excellence & Corporate Responsibility Awards which are now in their 12th year.

As the old Chinese proverb goes, “If you want 1 year of prosperity, grow grain. If you want 10 years of prosperity, grow trees. If you want 100 years of prosperity, grow people.” Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce are a people based organisation determined to grow the prosperity and success of business in the Fingal region. They are clear winners of the Public Sector magazine Best Business Network Organisation award. www.fingaldublinchamber.ie

John Hogan, Public Sector Magazine, Paul Reid, Chief Executive Fingal County Council, Siobhan Kinsella, President Fingal Dublin Chamber, Tony Lambert, Chief Executive Fingal Dublin Chamber, Cllr. Mags Murray, Mayor of Fingal and John Phelan, CEO Caliber Ltd.

Public Sector Magazine

Networking is the single most powerful marketing tactic for any organisation. It is particularly poignant therefore for CEO of Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce Tony Lambert to receive the Public Sector magazine award for Best Business Network since networking is at the very heart of the work of the Chamber.

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 204 stylish bedrooms and suites  Conference space for up to 1,000 delegates  25 Meeting Rooms with state-of-the-art facilities  Complimentary WiFi throughout all areas  Courtesy coach to/from Dublin Airport  15 minutes from Dublin City Centre  Easy access from M50/M1 motorways  Restaurant, bar and coffee dock  Secure, multi-storey car park For further information contact us on (01) 862 8888 E: l info@crowneplazadublin.ie W: crowneplazadublin.ie Northwood Park, Santry Demesne, Santry, Dublin 9

OUTRIGHT WINNERS CONFERENCE FACILITIES

JEWEL IN THE CROWNE Located in 85 acres of mature woodlands at Northwood Park, Santry, the Crowne Plaza Dublin-Northwood is a stylish, amenity rich hotel in beautiful surroundings.

Based on its proximity to Dublin airport and excellent road inks the hotel is seeing a significant increase in overseas business. With political unrest growing in Europe and the Middle East, Dublin is a safe and secure option for overseas conference planners. The excellent air access and the development of Dublin Airport as a hub for both transatlantic and southern hemisphere routes has really put the city on the map with conference organisers worldwide. With this in mind a state-of-the-art conference facility was added to the hotel in 2006 offering space for up to 1,000 delegates. A wealth of conference experience went into the design of the centre which focused on the needs of the modern conference planner. The unique sky-fold partitions in the main ballroom the Redwood Suite, gives conferences the flexibility to divide the room in three without creating any obstructions as the partitions drop electronically from the ceiling in 95 seconds. The unique interactive walkway offers clients additional branding opportunities and offer a real â&#x20AC;&#x153;wowâ&#x20AC;? factor to delegates. Recognising the importance of connectivity for the business traveller the hotel has its own WiFi system and offers 200 mbps un-contended which allows up to 600 delegates to use two devices without any loss of speed. Quality is key for Crowne Plaza Northwood and the hotel participates in the EFQM model of management to ensure it is in inline with the most successful and efficient businesses in Europe. The hotel participated in the prestigious European Foundation for Quality Management and was awarded 5-Star level. Hotel management recognise the importance of investing in people and a unique partnership with DIT offers select staff members a college placement which is paid for by the hotel. In addition

there are incentive schemes for awards and rewards based on client feedback or staff ideas that are implemented to enhance the guest experience. With such a commitment to quality it is no wonder that a very healthy occupancy rate of 81% was seen in 2013. The hotel conducts monthly mystery guest audits to ensure that any lapses in service or facilities are highlighted immediately and addressed with action plans in the relevant departments. Crowne Plaza Northwood certainly leaves no stone unturned when it comes to the guest experience. Looking to the future the hotel will strive to maintain its position as one of the top conference hotels in Ireland. It will continue to deliver award winning quality and service and will invest in the physical product and in staff training to ensure that this happens. www.crowneplazadublin.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Just three miles from Dublin Airport (with courtesy bus), one mile from the M50 and 5 miles from the city centre, Crowne Plaza Northwood is a top choice for conferences, events and airport travellers.

RESTAUR ANT, BAR & VEN UE

Make it your business to visit Pacino’s, Dublin’s premier Restaurant, Bar and Venue

Voted Best Italian Restaurant by Hot Press Magazine two years in a row and resident chef Luca Mazza voted the Best Italian Chef in Ireland for the last two years by Italian Food Critic Paolo Tullio you will not get better cuisine in the country. Using the best of Irish and Italian produce Pacino’s is a prominent member of “Good Food Ireland”, an association that features the best in Irish food producers and providers.

Public Sector Magazine

Pacino’s now provides entertainment on both Friday and Saturday nights, through it’s Pacino’s At Night Calendar including the best resident radio DJ’s and International Acts playing in the Cellar Venue weekly. W www.pacinos.ie

E info@pacinos.ie

PH +35316775651

18 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2

RESTAUR ANT, BAR & VEN UE

Make it your business to visit Pacino’s, Dublin’s premier Restaurant, Bar and Venue

Voted Best Italian Restaurant by Hot Press Magazine two Italian years Restaurant in a row and resident Lucatwo Mazza Voted Best by Hot Press chef Magazine years voted Bestchef Italian in voted Ireland theItalian last two in a row and the resident LucaChef Mazza thefor Best Critic by Paolo Tullio will not Chef in years Irelandby forItalian the lastFood two years Italian Foodyou Critic Paolo Tullio you willcuisine not getin better cuisine in the country. get better the country. Using the best of Irish and Italian produce Pacino’s Using theisbest of Irish and Italian produce Pacino’s a prominent a prominent member of “Good FoodisIreland”, memberan of association “Good Food Ireland”, an association that the that features the best in features Irish food best in Irish food producers and providers. producers and providers. Pacino’s now provides entertainment on both Friday Pacino’s now provides entertainment on both Friday and Saturday nights, through it’s Pacino’s Atand Night Saturday nights, through it’s Pacino’s At Night Calendar including Calendar including the best resident radio DJ’s and the best resident radio DJ’s and International Acts playing in the International Acts playing in the Cellar Venue weekly. Cellar Venue weekly.

W www.pacinos.ie

E info@pacinos.ie

PH +35316775651

18 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2

OUTRIGHT WINNERS RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

LIKE MAMA USED TO MAKE For almost 20 years Pacino’s has been at the very heart of the capital’s gourmet scene, well positioned on Suffolk Street in central Dublin. The restaurant business is notoriously volatile yet Pacino’s has aged like a fine wine with its old world vibe, stylish brickwork, wooden floors and soft lighting combined with the finest authentic rustic Italian food.

He explains that as well as visual improvements the restaurant focuses on expertly cooked, well served fresh produce rather than the fast table turnover experience of many city centre restaurants. “We have moved from a high table turnover with less time given per seating, to lower level table turnover, allowing more time per sitting. The focus is on the food, the wine and the experience which results in high satisfaction and a high return rate. Novel offerings such as ‘Chef Patron Luca Mazza’ are a big draw and together with the authentification and revamping of a delicious, authentic Italian Menu, charm and ambience combine to deliver memorable dining experience. As if finer dining is not enough, the hugely popular Cellar Bar and Venue has had a state of the art sound system installed which draws successful promoters and DJ’s together with a healthy following of punters. “The idea is that customers who come one week for an authentic Italian meal might come back the next time to a music gig. Or better still they might have a meal prior to a gig on the same evening!” says Martin. Despite his obvious business acumen Martin is very easy going and he clearly enjoys what he does saying that “all staff should be happy in their work. If they are not it is reflective in their performance and in turn passed on to the customer. “ He still faces challenges however saying that “the cost of doing business is colossal and continues to be with no signs of abating. Running a restaurant in Dublin is more expensive than anywhere else in Europe with commercial rates having increased by 25% and excise duty gone crazy with the cost of

a bottle of wine and alcohol skyrocketing due to tax increases.” However he cites the 9% vat rate as having done wonders for the industry, leading to huge job creation and a very vibrant sector “with Irish restaurants punching above their weight in terms of their European counterparts.” Martin concludes, “The last few years have proven difficult for all businesses however for those that survived it has made us stronger and allowed business owners to really focus on their product. It is our goal to constantly improve our service offering, to develop and stay on top of our customers’ expectations and to keep up with the latest trends whilst staying true to our identity. www.pacinos.ie

Public Sector Magazine

A perfect partnership between Luca Mazza, a talented chef with a big reputation, and Michael Martin creates the perfect marriage of authentic Italian cooking and seamless service. This together with a policy of reinvestment into the business year on year explains their success. Martin explains, “Every year we focus on reinvesting. Over the last 12 months we have had a major revamp with new flooring, lighting, painting and furnishings. A new pizza oven, pasta maker, pasta cooker and fridges result in faster and less timely preparation, better efficiency during service and the overall delivery of a better tasting meal.

Public Sector Magazine

The Northside Shopping Centre is Dublinâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s favorite shopping Centre.

Situated at the northern fringe of the M50 in Coolock, it is just a short drive from about anywhere in Dublin. Avoid sitting in traffic for hours then paying a fortune for your parking. Drop into Northside Shopping Centre and have a superb shopping experience, with ample free parking and some of the top names in Irish fashion and home-wares, you are sure to find exactly what you want. With more than 70 outlets including, Dunnes Stores, New Look, Superquinn, Hickeys Pharmacy, Shoe Zone, Kenny Shoes & Sports, Lifestyle Sports, Subway, Peter Marks and many many more top quality retail outlets, it is time you make Northside Shopping Centre your first choice for shopping.

Opening Hours Mon-Wed 9am-6pm | Thurs & Fri 9am-9pm | Sat 9am-6pm | Sun 12am-6pm

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IT’S ALL GOOD NEWS FOR

NORTHSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE More than just a shopping destination, Northside Shopping Center is at the very heart of the local community on Dublin’s lively northside.

It’s often said that Northside is not just a shopping centre, it is a centre for the community. Those that work here or those that visit regularly will identify with that sentiment. Young mums in the area particularly love dropping over to the centre and meeting friends for a coffee and a chat. There are numerous reasons why Northside Shopping Centre has been so successful over the last 44 years but the catalyst must undoubtedly be the friendly and welcoming attitude for which Coolock is renowned.

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST SHOPPING CENTRE

During late 2013 Northside Shopping Centre began a major two-phase rebuilding and modernisation programme. Phase 1 was completed in November 2013 and focused on the interior of the centre rejuvenating it from the ground up to include a complete redesign of the interior with a new brighter colour scheme throughout. The rebuild also included upgrading of the shopping units, utilities, new floor tiles, skylights and a centrepiece of the centre - a brand new lift and staircase. The centre has now been further transformed into a bright, clean and modern environment that is a pleasure to shop in. Phase 2 will begin early next year and will involve the complete modernisation of the exterior of the building and the Northside Shopping Centre brand, making it a more aesthetically pleasing focal point for the local community. In addition Dublin City Council has completely renovated the swimming pool and management at the centre are delighted that this pool is now re-opened to the public adding to the community function of the centre. New tenants include a diverse range of options for shoppers such as the Northside Fujifilm Photo centre, Book Value and Auntie Nellie’s Traditional Irish Sweets. For a well deserved break Café Misto and Costa Coffee offer snack and restaurant facilities and they will soon be joined by JD Sports and KFC who will open a restaurant in the car park in the spring 2015. For over 40 years Northside Shopping Centre has been a hub for the local community providing not only quality grocery and fashion outlets, but a range of professional medical and beauty services. On the

first floor balcony you can have a complete overhaul from head to toe with everything from legal advice to eyecare, dentistry, chiropody, women’s healthcare, beauty consultation and hair styling. Centre Manager Alan McCabe who gratefully accepted the Public Sector Magazine Award for Shopping Centre of the Year knows how important it is to be at the heart of his community. As well as the many refurbishments the centre will continue to attract people from far and wide for their regular events, promotions and competitions especially at Easter, Halloween and Christmas time. “Its more than just a shopping centre, it’s about delivering a shopping experience” says Alan. So the next time, you’re in the area, drop in and experience the new-look Northside Shopping Centre. www.northsideshoppingcentre.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN TRANSPORT & COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

A TRADITION OF

TRANSPORT

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Isuzu Motors Limited has been a pioneer in the manufacture of vehicles and engines for industrial and commercial use since its ﬁrst truck was introduced in 1918. Today Isuzu is a world leader in the production of reliable medium-duty trucks and is world-renowned for its expertise in engineering, from diesel engines to pickups to SUVs.

The Harris Group & Isuzu together with Hino Motors are constantly striving for perfection across all aspects of its business. From trucks to the dealership experience and after-sales care, “we constantly push ourselves to achieve perfection” says Mark Barrett. Perfection is how many would describe the sheer range of vehicles available at the Harris Group on Dublin’s Naas Road. Whether for a personal, family or company vehicle, there is something here for everybody and Mark will ensure that you walk away happy. “Our hands on experience with a customer first policy enables us to match our customers’ needs with commercial vehicles tailored to suit their individual requirement” said Mark. With short lead times and availability of pre-bodied trucks there is no issue meeting customer requirements in a timely and friendly manner.

The Harris Group prides itself on quality, excellent service and support to its customers and its dealer networks, continually improving to be best in its field with thanks to its innovated team and drive for perfection. Customer service is an integral part of the company’s customer value proposition. From that perspective, customer service is included as part of an overall approach to systematic improvement. “We specialise in the supply of light to heavy commercial vehicles, crewcab, and 4x4’s” Barrett explains with an ever expanding range of vehicles coming on board in 2015. The N Series has been a huge participant in the light to medium duty truck sector commanding market leading share at 3.5T & 7.5T gross vehicle weight. New to market this year and set to create a storm is the Harris Higer. HIGER is a new generation of high quality buses and coaches bringing the sophistication of affordable luxury and progressive styling together with classic and traditional values as standard. Higer Bus has now arrived in Ireland and in the United Kingdom exclusively represented by The Harris Group of Companies. With a strong dedicated dealer network strategically placed around Ireland and the UK the Harris Group is equipped to establish Higer Bus as a serious contender within the bus & coach Industry. The all new Higer Storm had its UK debut at the Euro Bus Expo in the NEC Birmingham on November the 4th 2014 and was unveiled to the Irish bus industry on the 8th of November at the CTTC Bus & Coach event in the RDS. The Storm 1 will be used as the competition coach for the Irish Coach driver of the year awards the Harris Group are one of the Title sponsors for the event. A clear winner in their field, Harris Group has again topped the poll in the Public Sector Magazine awards for best commercial vehicles. Mark Barrett is delighted to accept the award and says that happy customers are the best reward. www.harrisgroup.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST AIRLINE

FLYING HIGH

TURKISH AIRLINES

For four years running it has won the prestigious Europe´s Best Airline award. And with its high class service, comfort and global reach, Turkish Airlines is poised to grow even more explains Ireland manager Murat Balandi.

Public Sector Magazine

MORE and more people are talking about Turkish Airlines and is it any wonder? Not only has it been named Europe´s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 in the prestigious Skytrax awards but it has almost doubled its flights from Ireland in the past two years. Now with 12 flights weekly Dublin to Istanbul there are now almost two flights jetting between the cities every single day. The dynamic Murat Balandi, chief executive of Turkish Airlines (Ireland) has been working in Dublin for four years and is passionate about his native land and how much it offers to Irish people. “Did you know Anatolia, the area in the centre of Turkey, was where the Celts once lived – the Celts were in Turkey before the Turks” he says. “The area was Galatia, and the Celts lived there from 279BC – Ankara was originally a Celtic hill-fort.” Mr. Balandi also draws attention to the First World War battle of Gallipoli, whose centenary is being marked next year and over the coming years. “Irishmen and Anzacs, and the Turks, fought at Gallipoli but had nothing to do with the conflict. They were all dragged into it by other powers. The Anzacs and the Turks became friends afterwards; they have such a big respect for each other.” Russell Crowe’s directorial debut film, the Water Diviner, focuses on the aftermath of the war when an Irish-Australian farmer, Connor, travels to Turkey to find his three sons who were reported missing after the Battle of Gallipoli. The film is set to garner a lot of attention when it is released next April and will kick off the year of the battle’s centenary. Thousands of Irishmen fought and died alongside the Anzacs, and more than 10,000 Australians and New Zealanders visited the scene of the landings last year alone. It

is hoped many Irish will travel to the battle sites to remember their sacrifice. “We can learn a lot from history”, says Mr Balandi, “And if he know each other’s history then we know each other better.” Ireland owes a debt to Turkey too, from back in 1847 when the Ottoman Sultan sent three ships packed with wheat and corn to help relieve the suffering caused by the Great Famine. Sultan Abdul Majid Khan also sent £1,000 – he had wanted to make a larger donation but was advised not to donate more than Queen Victoria, who had sent £2,000. The Turkish Airlines Open, staged last year 2013 for the first time when Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson first came to prominence by winning from a field which included Justin Rose, Tiger Woods and Martin Kaymer and as golf lovers will know, it took place again November 13th-16th this year. Turkey has lots of important religious sites “The first Christian monastery was founded in Cappadocia, while ‘The Steps of St Paul’ is an important pilgrimage route” explains Balandi. Istanbul is an endless pleasure - the magical city formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople that was capital to three important empires. It is also close to those two key battlefields of the ancient and modern world, Troy and Gallipoli. Yet Turkey is now a modern, bustling nation and the Istanbul is a popular destination for conferences and conventions. Turkish Airlines has helped to highlight its unique geographical position as a bridge between Europe and Asia and its global reach. Balandi concludes, “We want to grow and put more flights into Dublin to increase connectivity to the 264 destinations.”

   Surface Water & Flood Management Division Mr. John Flanagan, Executive Manager

Regional Projects & Flood Advisory Office Monitor & advise on ongoing flood risk. Develop regional and local flood alleviation projects to reduce coastal, fluvial, pluvial and surface water flood risk in Dublin City. Monitor regional, national and international developments in flood risk management with particular emphasis on current flood risk and climate change. Construction projects currently on lower Dodder €30m, Clanmoyle Road €6m, Glasanon Swale, Finglas, South Campshires €3.5m starting in October. Developing flood management procedures.

Public Sector Magazine

Eastern River Basin District (ERBD)

Developing programmes of measures for Local Authorities and others to reduce pollution to our coasts, rivers, lakes, canals and groundwater bodies, in line with EU and national directives, legislation and guidelines.

Surface Water Maintenance & Flood Risk Management Providing road gully maintenance for the city. Developing flood management procedures. Ultimately maintaining the city’s rivers, flood forum, community self help programme, training programmes for flood response.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Providing continuous professional development for Engineering & Technical grades in Dublin City Council, with close liaison to Engineers Ireland.

Best wishes to the readers of Public Sector Magazine from

The Environment & Transportation Department of

Dublin City Council Surface Water & Flood Management Division

Regional Projects & Flood Advisory Office

Block 1, Floor 4, Civic Offices, Wood Quay, Dublin 8. Tel: 01 222 3187 E-mail: fionam.murphy@dublincity.ie

Floor 4, 68-70 Marrowbone Lane Dublin 8. Tel: 01 222 4804 E-mail: alan.oregan@dublincity.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENVIRONMENT AND ENGINEERING AWARD FOR REGIONAL FLOOD PROJECTS & EMERGENCY SERVICES DIVISION

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL On 1st February 2002, Dublin had the highest tide ever recorded in the city reaching a level of 2.95m at Alexandra Basin in Dublin’s Docklands. Over 1,250 buildings in the city were ﬂooded as a result. Up to this point Dublin was not perceived as a city with a high tidal ﬂood risk however when the return period for this very high tide was estimated at 1 in 68 years, the Dublin Flooding Initiative (DFI) was born. DFI was conceived to analyse flood risk in four main areas (tidal, coastal, dam breach and network) and reduce it. To date €42m of flood alleviation projects have been constructed in Dublin City and a significant further spend is programmed for the next few years.

Approximately €9m of flood alleviation works are being constructed this year at locations including the Lower Dodder River in Ballsbridge, the Wad River in Clontarf, a flood retention pond in Finglas and on works on the south camp shires in the Docklands area, further increasing the flood resilience of the city. Flood/high tide warnings by Dublin City Council in January this year lead to temporary flood defenses being installed by the DCC Drainage Division on the Clontarf Promenade, significantly reducing flood risk in the area. Government support to the Office of Public Works capital expenditure programme even during the recession was significant and has led to Dublin City Council being able to progress with much needed flood alleviation measures even during the recent recession. €42m of flood works have been carried out in the city area since 2003, €23m of these since 2007. Gerry O’Connell, Engineer-in-Charge, Regional Projects Office is keen to promote the fact that Dublin City Council cares and will do everything in its power for residents in flood risk areas. “We visit each flooded site and talk to the residents and businesses which were flooded. Most of them are very emotional. All that we can promise is that we will do our best to find some measure to at least reduce the flood risk in the future. Most are appreciative that somebody is listening and trying to prevent further catastrophe and reduce stress levels.” O’Connell faces many challenges but each one is met with great determination. With the advent of Irish water and various budgetary and staff cuts, DCC is regrouping the delivery of over 500 different services. It is selling Dublin City as a nice place to live and visit. It is raising the standard of living of its citizens as much as it can, environmentally, socially,

In the area of flood alleviation O’Connell says “we use international best practice highlighted by our involvement in various EU projects and initiatives. We use the best international surveying methods including aerial surveys. We use the latest developments in computer software and computer number crunching power. When looking for flood alleviation measures we start with all previously used international methodologies slowly reducing this blue sky thinking to reasonably feasible measures at each location in question.” Optimistic for the future O’Connell concludes, “I hope that Dublin City Council under the leadership of our Chief Executive Owen Keegan, will grow to better service the needs of the people of Dublin and that my own section will provide optimum protection projects and warning services to the 2% estimated to be at significant flooding risk.” www.www.dublincity.ie

Public Sector Magazine

From a flood alleviation perspective Dublin City Council (DCC) is performing well having coped with the highest tide ever recorded in its area of 3.014m Malin Head, on the 3rd January 2014 with minimal flood damages compared to over 1250 buildings flooded by the previous highest recorded tide level of 2.95m Malin Head on 1st February 2002.

culturally, domestically, with good transportation routes including new cycle ways and the popular Dublin bikes scheme together with providing support for various charities. It listens to its people, through questionnaires, council questions, planning submissions, media articles and is constantly re-organising itself to respond to their needs as well as it can.

Public Sector Magazine

www.dublinwritersfestival.com

Each year Dublin Writers Festival assembles some of the finest writers in the world, a tantalizing mix of new faces and household names both home grown and International, in unique, inspiring encounters. Celebrating ideas, reading and writing for all ages the festival transforms Dublin into a international literary hub in the month of May for spoken and written word.

Save the date Dublin Writers Festival 15th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 24th May, 2015

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN SERVICES TO THE PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF ARTS & CULTURE

DUBLIN CITY ARTS The Dublin City Arts Oﬃce provides a wide range of Art facilities and services to the people of Dublin and visitors to the City. The arts oﬃce is based at the LAB premises in Foley Street, Dublin 1 and works with and collaborates with all relevant stakeholders in the city.

With the namesake of one of Ireland’s most famous artists and literary geniuses, Yeates says that Dublin is a hotbed of culture around which all forms of art can flourish. “The city is positively teeming with talent and the Dublin City Arts Office is there to facilitate and promote this creativity.” Dublin City Council has this year passed a new Arts Plan and the implementation of the Plan’s objectives are the top priorities for the Arts Office. These priorities such as Public Access to the Arts, Artists Development and the Arts in Neighbourhoods are central to the vision set out in the Plan and The Arts Office Purpose. Part of the remit for the Dublin City Arts Office is in supporting events and activities that bring animation, life and colour to Dublin city that enhances the experience for residents, workers and visitors. A huge calendar of events runs throughout the year bringing art and culture into festivals and events such as the recent Bram Stoker festival over the Halloween period and the Dublin Writers Festival in May. Using public spaces in this way as well as encouraging people to visit and use our galleries and public buildings is all part of bringing art to the people and indeed people to appreciate art. At the reception to receive the Public Sector award Yeates said “We are delighted that the City Arts Office has been recognised for excellence in promotion of arts and culture in Dublin”. He feels that the sheer scale and depth of the work that the Arts Offices throughout Ireland do is rarely appreciated, in part in Dublin because Dublin City Council is such a large organisation, “keeping our colleagues informed and enthusiastic about our work is vital.” In the case of this award Yeates is quick to recognise that the organisation as a whole also deserves

recognition “as many City sections are involved in what we do, not just those in the Arts Office itself, this award is a recognition of a great collaborative approach.” www.dublincity.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Headed up by Ray Yeates, City Arts Officer, the Arts office covers a huge diversity of events, campaigns, support and outreach programmes. “The Arts belong to everybody and are a fundamental part of learning and human development. They are of relevance therefore to everybody whether participating, appreciating or practising” says Yeates.

Discover the splendor of...

Malahide Castle & Gardens is the perfect location to impress your international guests, we can cater for a range of different events from

private Guided Tours of the Castle - drinks receptions & entertainment - private dining Options Team Building & incentive days - Meeting & Conference room Hire - On-site Catering

Open daily all year rOund To explore your ideas further contact our Sales & Marketing department on +353 1 866 6784 or email pollardj@shannonheritage.com www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST TOURISM AND HERITAGE SITE

Ireland is known for its rich heritage and we have more than our fair share of castles. Sadly many of these lie in ruins revealing just a hint of their ancient past. Not so however at Malahide – a thriving village and pretty seaside town with a history intrinsically linked to the magniﬁcent Malahide Castle. If first impressions are everything it is hard not to be impressed as draw close to the castle and demesne. A sweeping driveway almost half a mile long, flagged by open parkland and mature trees on either side is a fitting entry to what Shannon Heritage CEO John Ruddle calls a “magical place.” The first sight of the castle is indeed quite magical and the interior is utterly fascinating. “It is a totally unique and authentic experience” says Ruddle, “like stepping back in time and taking a look around while the family have stepped out for a while”. John Ruddle is a chartered accountant by trade but he has worked extensively in Ireland on heritage sites with Shannon Heritage and previously in the UK and Northern Ireland with The National Trust. An ethos of preservation and conservation is something that he brings to Malahide Castle. He is hugely conscious of the need to respect and preserve each site in his trust “many additions and alterations have been made to this romantic and beautiful structure but the contours of the surrounding parklands have changed little in 800 years, retaining a true sense of the past.”

Malahide Castle was both a fortress and a private home for almost 800 years. The Talbot family lived here from 1185 to 1973 when the last Talbot died. The house and its beautiful period furniture together with an extensive collection of Irish portrait paintings passed to the Irish State and it is now run as one of Ireland’s top heritage sites by Shannon Heritage who together with Fingal County Council work tirelessly to share the rich heritage of the castle and demesne with visitors and locals alike. This five star attraction has quality written all over it and the unique factor is that it was owned by the same family for centuries. “What’s been done here is to recreate a sense of what it was like when the family had it; the castle in particular is just as if they have gone out for the day. It is furnished as it would have been back in the day even down to the beautiful paintings in the Great Hall, part of a resplendent collection from The National Gallery” explains Ruddle. The history of the Talbot family is evident throughout the castle but perhaps particularly well in the

Public Sector Magazine

MALAHIDE CASTLE

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Great Hall where portraits of generations of the family tell their own story of Ireland’s stormy history. One painting in particular depicts the Battle of the Boyne – particularly poignant as 14 members of the Talbot family sat down to breakfast here before they set off to take part in that very battle. It is hard to imagine something as mundane as breakfast in this striking space. There can be few more beautiful settings for high end corporate events and Ruddle says that the Hall has been the setting for select drinks receptions, private dining and medieval banquets. As if to add to the authenticity of the castle it even has its own ghost. It is said that a servant called Puck took a fancy to one of the ladies of the house, something quite forbidden in those days. He was rewarded for his sin by being hung in the Great Hall. Perhaps his love of the castle was just as great as his love of Lady Talbot as to this day Puck makes the odd appearance in the hall and those that have seen him say that he is a friendly ghost.

Castle experience as the castle itself. The ancient walled gardens are beautifully laid out – much as they would have been hundreds of years ago. An ideal spot for quiet reflection or a calm and relaxing stroll, April to June is particularly magnificent when flowers from all over world are in bloom and discrete seating is ideally positioned to catch the afternoon sun. The West lawn by contrast is not so organised and manicured, rather it has its own charm with bridges, walkways, ancient trees and discrete landscaping set out by Talbots centuries ago. “The sense is that nothing has been tampered with over time, only preserved and added to” explains Ruddle. “Our objective is to respect the heritage of the site and we keep this firmly in our sights in managing the estate.” The possibilities here are endless and this motivates John and his team to keep pushing the boundaries with an ever increasing programme of special events. “Here we are limited only by imagination” he says and there is no lack of that in his team.

Castles were built for show and today more than ever Malahide Castle shines with a vast range of events from open air summer theatre to classical music and gourmet evenings. During the day the gorgeous Avoca shop and restaurant caters to hungry visitors while evening events have extra treats like period characters re-enacting life as it was in times gone by.

An informative and easy to use website details all that is on offer at the castle and demesne including a very attractive membership scheme allowing priority access, special offers and regular updates. Social media sites including Facebook are positively buzzing with high hit rates, event listings and very positive feedback for this special place. Malahide Castle really is a unique; a clear winner on many levels and certainly a gem in the heritage crown.

With 250 acres of parkland it is no surprise that the gardens are as much a feature of the Malahide

www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie

GREEN HOSPITALITY AWARDS

Public Sector Magazine

The hospitality sector came out in force as Green Hospitality hosted their National Conference & Responsible Travel & Tourism Awards at the Marker Hotel, Dublin on 16th October 2014.

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Businesses in Co. Clare were the big winners scooping eleven awards in total including the top award, Responsible Travel & Tourism Business of The Year which went to The Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark. This is the first year the awards have recognised businesses throughout Ireland for their responsible, sustainable and environmental efforts with the theme this year of ‘Making Responsible Tourism Pay’. Speaking at the event, Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport spoke of the importance and economic benefit of encouraging and recognising businesses who make the effort to ‘go green’, “When it comes to promoting Ireland as a destination for tourism, it is important that we practice what we preach. Ireland is promoted as a

destination that has a wonderful natural environment and we sell Ireland as a green destination, especially to many environmentally aware source nations such as the USA. Therefore it is vital that all our travel, tourism & hospitality businesses do their best to introduce good environmental, responsible and sustainable business practices.” The awards were open to any business that operate within the travel, tourism and hospitality industry and a specially selected judging panel chaired by broadcaster and environmentalist Duncan Stewart chose the overall winners. Other winners included the Croke Park Hotel Dublin, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Dublin, Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel, Adare, Co Limerick and Buswells Hotel, Dublin. www.greenhospitality.ie

SUSTAINABLE LIGHTING for a better Environment

LEDVISTA Lighting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; IRELAND T: +353 (0)1 9011 789 | E: lighting@ledvista.ie | W: www.ledvista.ie DUBLIN: Block B, The Crescent Building, Northwood, Santry, Dublin 9, Ireland WEXFORD: Ballindoney, Ballywilliam, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Ireland

Public Sector Magazine

Making a difference by providing quality homes for people in housing need

Circle VHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to deliver quality homes and services in partnership with our tenants and local services to create sustainable communities Circle VHA has approved status from the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and is a member of the Irish Council for Social Housing. Supported by Circle Housing Group 3 Castle Street, Dublin 2. Tel: 01-4072110 Fax: 01-4792356 Email: info@circlevha.ie

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HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Circle Voluntary Housing Association is honoured to have received the Public Sector 2014 Award. “It is an important acknowledgement of our work in providing social housing to those in housing need” says Justin O’Brien, Chief Executive. “It is also recognition of the quality of the delivery of our housing management services to our tenants. This has been affirmed to us in our Tenant satisfaction Survey in 2013 which affirmed that over 92% of our tenants were satisfied with their accommodation and our housing management services”. Circle VHA like all approved housing bodies operates in a public sector policy and administrative framework of DECLG and local authorities. “We are given approved status by DECLG to provide social housing and we provide housing to approved local authority nominations. It is essential for Circle VHA to have good professional working relationship with the public sector bodies not just the local authorities but also the Garda, HSE so that housing and where required other supports are delivered to our tenants” O’Brien said.

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST HOUSING ASSOCIATION

O’Brien’s vision for Circle VHA is to make a difference by providing quality homes for people with housing need. “We believe that the provision of good quality housing is a foundation for adults and children to have safety and to be nurtured and to grow into active civic citizens. Our mission is to deliver quality homes and services in partnership with our tenants and local services to create sustainable communities.” To this end they work closely with local authorities in order to address social housing need and deliver a quality housing management service. Good communication and working relationship with each local authority is essential. Circle VHA in addition to providing social housing also provided a facilities management service. O’Brien explains, “We are approved by PSRA and we provide a managing agents service in a number of mixed tenure schemes. The integration of both the social housing and facilities management services is beneficial both in terms of social integration of tenures and service delivery. Our tenants contribute to the service charges that are required. Tenants appreciate the integrated delivery of housing and property management services and this is very visible in the upkeep of the internal and external environments of such schemes. We regularly meet with our tenants and establish tenant forums in each large scheme. Our values of respect, integration, empowerment, sustainability and accountability are core to our delivery of services.“ Circle VHA place great value on the Public Sector Award as recognition of their work. “It promotes our brand with both public and private sector bodies and the wider public” says O’Brien who continues, “2014 has been an important year for Circle VHA as we have increased the scale of our housing provision to 950 units in the Dublin area via arrangements with Dublin City Council and NAMA. The current housing market is a difficult one with rap-

idly increasing housing costs and a limited supply of new housing. The Government is to launch a new social housing policy and strategy and this will be important for Circle VHA. We want to grow the scale of our social housing provision via acquisitions, design and build and to address the increased scale of social housing need in partnership with the local authorities.” Circle VHA has certified status from the Housing Finance Agency which should enable them to finance the acquisition of new units of accommodation. O’Brien concludes, “We want to continue to enhance the delivery of our housing and property management services. A new regulatory code is in place for the AHB sector and we want to be fully compliant with all requirements so that we can affirm to the public sector and the wider public our good governance, quality housing services and accountability for what we do. “ www.circlevha.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Sonas Housing Examples of SocialProject, HousingWicklow Provisiontown in Co. Wicklow

www.wicklowcoco.ie www.wicklowcoco.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING SERVICES

STYLISH SOCIAL HOUSING Wicklow is colloquially known as the Garden of Ireland and there can be few lovelier places to live. BeneďŹ ting from the most dramatic of scenery yet within an easy commute of the capital city, Wicklow is a desirable place to set up home. Wicklow County Council has taken an innovative approach to social housing, delivering an impressive template that could be adopted with pride by county councils all over the country.

The council has recently completed a superb five bedroomed, A3 energy rated home in Seaview Road, Greystones. The house was built on the side garden of no 7 Seaview Road, owned at the time by Wicklow County Council. Designed in-house and built on time and in budget by the housing direct labour team, the new cottage sits seamlessly with other houses in the development. The house is a special needs dwelling with level access throughout. For energy efficiency a high

emphasis was put on thermal bridging/air tightness and all windows were triple glazed. The heating system has the latest Daikin air-water pump technology with an efficiency of 450%. Radiator heating is used throughout with a wood burning stove in the living area. The kitchen is large and fitted with bright, modern furniture and the kitchen and living areas both benefit from patio doors opening onto a roofed terrace. Far from being shoe-horned into a small space this home is a substantial 147m2 internally. In an enviable location and with a top of the range finish, this is social housing at its best and a perfect example of how Wicklow County Council is not only finding ways to meet housing needs in its area, but providing beautiful, sustainable and energy efficient homes. www.wicklowcoco.ie

Public Sector Magazine

The main purpose of the housing services department in local authorities is to facilitate the provision of suitable, cost effective, quality accommodation and support for people in need of housing. Wicklow County Council faces the same issues of availability as do other county councils however this council has taken a novel approach to one development in a template that can be rolled out around the county.

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Changing Housing for the Better partnership | choice | more for less playing our part | social responsibilty

Working for people and places, not profit

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR VOLUNTARY HOUSING MANAGEMENT

CHANGING LIVES

FOREVER

It is in everyone’s interests to deliver more aﬀordable housing, both social and sub-market rent options in mixed tenure settings and no more so than at this time of severe need. Public Sector Magazine

In Old Irish Túath means people, tribe or clan. In modern terms its meaning is community which is central to the core values of Túath Housing. Túath is a not-for-profit organisation and an approved voluntary housing association. The association currently manages over 2,000 properties. Túath is one of the fastest growing Housing Associations in Ireland and let 217 new homes last year. The year was successful on many levels; Túath were proud to be recognized for schemes at the Irish Council for Social Housing’s biennial community housing awards for joint work with Cork County Council, Dun Laoighaire Rathdown County Council, Drogheda Town Council with Louth County Council and Dublin City Council. They also worked successfully with NAMA and completed the first social lease with them. On the financial front, turnover increased by 20%, 98% of rent due was collected whilst investing in excess of €19M on new building and property acquisitions. The principal focus for the association is working in partnership with the State, communities and local authorities in the increased delivery of new housing in mixed tenure estates on a not for profit basis. Túath Housing work collaboratively with all stakeholders to remove barriers to new home building whilst also assisting council’s with the regeneration of housing stock and estates. With one of the connotations of the organisation’s names meaning ‘people’, Túath take great pride in the people who run and contribute everyday to the association. “I am hugely appreciative of the professionalism and dedication of our voluntary Board of Management and our workforce of over 35 staff. Many of our people have enhanced their careers during their time with us. We encourage ongoing training for staff at all levels” explains Sean O’Connor, Chief Executive. He continues, “The majority of staff are professionally qualified from housing, finance, property, construction, community and management disciplines. I am 100% confident that we have the requisite skills and experience to keep us growing sustainably and in good shape in the future.”

Clearly it is a formula that works. As well as considerable development in the new housing area, the association achieved an average score of 97.5% for overall tenant satisfaction in independently conducted telephone survey’s in 2013. Going forward Túath Housing intend to play their part in increasing the output of new homes but they are about more than just bricks and mortar says Sean O’Connor, “We will continue to concentrate on managing existing social homes in sustainable ways which allows people and families to peacefully enjoy their homes and to settle within local communities. My wish is that the strengthening economy will bring new hope and prosperity to the many tenants and communities we serve throughout Ireland. We will continue to work for places and people, not profit.” With a six point plan that encompasses an ethos of creating popular neighbourhoods where people want to live and settle, Túath are indeed changing housing for the better. www.tuathhousing.ie

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CORK County Council Outright Winners 2014 Best Local Authority for Housing Services Â

www.corkcoco.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST LOCAL AUTHORITY FOR HOUSING SERVICES

CORK CARES There has been a major reorientation in social housing policy over the past number of years. In particular, a greater emphasis is being placed on sourcing social housing units from the private sector through schemes such as the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) and the Social Housing Leasing Initiative (SHU). Cork County Council Housing Services are to be congratulated on their hugely successful programme for provision of suitable, quality and cost effective housing and housing support.

CCC are currently piloting a project whereby all tenant repair requests are channeled through a call center. The aim is to provide a dedicated professional service with the ability to track volumes, progress, completions, budgets and timeframes. CCC Housing Services successfully achieved the amalgamation of three divisional differential rent schemes into one countywide scheme and are on target to return 155 vacant units to productive use by November 2014. In addition a programme of retrofitting energy efficiency works to existing housing stock is well underway. Mary feels that it is important to empower communities and to forge strengthened links with those communities. An Estate Management Liaison Team works closely with communities in the establishment and running of projects such as Goolds Hill Community Facilities, Stag Park Resource Centre, Innishmore Community Centre, various playgrounds, eg. Stag Park playground which was a partnered development with Ballyhoura. “We strive to support resources that will benefit all of our residents from crèche facilities through to youth services. Currently we are focused on building partnerships with the voluntary sector in order to maximise the assets that we have primarily in rela-

Public Sector Magazine

Mary Ryan, Director is passionate about her work and driven by success “We lay down clear and measurable targets via our Business Plans, TDP and PDP’s at the beginning of each year. These are continually monitored with strict evaluation at each end of every quarter. We are meeting and in many cases exceeding our targets in the majority of work areas. If resources need to be temporarily redeployed to bolster an area, we find a way make it happen. We constructed and tenanted 213 housing units in one scheme in Goold’s Hill, Mallow – 88 of which are affordable and managed by Tuath on behalf of Cork County Council and 125 social. Both Tuath and Cork County Council (CCC) work in partnership to ensure an effective cohesive management service for all residents. We have provided an onsite estate office as a central hub where residents can come and ensure their queries are addressed. The estate also has a purpose built community center owned by CCC and managed by Cloyne Dioceses Youth Work Ireland. The estate has 3 playgrounds, 2 basketball courts and a soccer pitch. It was for this scheme that CCC were joint winners with Tuath of the ICSH for Families in 2013.”

tion to land bank and to channel their expertise to work with us to deliver housing of various types as identified by us.” Despite the great strides already made Mary is determined that as many vacant houses as possible are returned to productive use within the prescribed timeframes. “I want to ensure that when the current programme comes to an end, that Cork County Councils Housing Directorate is best placed to maintain that momentum and standard. Longer term I have ambitions of returning to a construction programme. I am identifying land banks currently in the council’s ownership that might be considered as infill developments in urban/city hinterland areas with good transport links identified – with the objective of opening discussions with the Department. I believe that it is critical that we make the best use of the land that we have available to us, that we are pro-active in strengthening partnerships with the private and voluntary sector and also in accessing any and all funding streams available to us.” A combination of Cork wit and ‘can do’ attitude is evident talking with Mary. She concludes “we always aim to deliver the fullest, most rounded housing service that we can within the constraints that we all experience. We don’t allow any hurdles to impede our service delivery. We never say we can’t do it or we can’t spend it. There’s always a way and somehow we always find it!”

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WEB SUMMIT 2014 And that’s a wrap folks! After three days, 22,000 attendees from 109 countries, 614 speakers, 2,160 start-ups exhibiting for 700 investors, 1324 journalists, 2,200 staﬀ taking part over the course of three day at Dublin’s RDS and 82,000 cups of coﬀee, Web Summit 2014 came to a close. Can Europe’s biggest tech conference get any bigger? It can says Founder, Paddy Cosgrave, who reflected on this year’s event, “It can become bigger. Just look at our chat app where we can grow from a network effect and more and more people are looking for recommendations from us. The more diverse the people the more the growth. We were described before as Davos for Geeks but I don’t think we’re anything like that – there’s no snipers on the roof for starters! We’re probably more like a Glastonbury for Geeks – the average age of the team behind Web Summit are 27-28 and for them, their experience is of music festivals and so we try to bring that to here. We’ve taken a different approach and focus on the social element as well for that’s really important too.” At the end, Bono joined Eric Wahlforss Founder & CTO of Soundcloud and Dana Brunetti, Producer House of Cards, to discuss Movies & Music in the 21st Century with the U2 frontman believing in the

power of technology to give power back to musicians. “Streaming services are exciting,” he said. “Songs are like our parents, they don’t like being ignored and anything that gets your songs out there is a good thing. This is an experimental and exciting period so let’s experiment and see what works.” Apt words to end Web Summit 2014 on we think. As has been observed, discussed and talked about over the last three days, technology is changing our lives for the better each and every day. We can’t be sure exactly what lies ahead but we do know it’s about creativity, collaboration and experimenting. Here’s to the next 364 days of idea generation, building, trying and see what works. It’s what got Web Summit here in the first place. When one journey ends, so begins another. Special offer pre-sale tickets for Web Summit 2015 will be available soon at websummit.net/2for1, in strictly limited numbers.

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TWEETS

120,000 tweets were published with Tweets having come from over 40,000 unique Twitter accounts

Companies that gave the best goodies. giveaways were Google, Qualtrics, Microsoft. Audi and KPMG

Public Sector Magazine

Tweets per minute peaked between 11am and 2pm on Tuesday (coinciding with Eva Longoria’s Main Stage and Food Stage appearances).

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WHAT PEOPLE SAID “The biggest event of its kind in Europe.” CNBC “Everywhere you go it’s buzzing and it’s electric.” Bloomberg “The best conference we’ve ever attended.” Mashable “It was awesome.” The Daily Beast “One of the hottest events in tech.” CNN “Unique among European conferences.” Wall Street Journal “Excellent.” TechCrunch

TASTES 432,000 tastings of Irish beef, lamb, pork, duck, chicken, fish, seafood, fruit and vegetables. 12,000 tastings of Irish ciders, craft beers and fruit juices 480,000 grams of Irish dairy desserts 35,000 slices of cooked beef, ham and charcuterie consumed 10,000 packets of Tayto eaten. 50,000 Waterford Blaas, Ulster Soda Farls and Irish Traditional Soda and Sourdough Breads provided. 10,000 tubs of Ice Cream and sorbets handed out.

82%

NUMBER CRUNCHING:

Coming to the event for the first time

Largest bracket of attendee aged

26-35

72%

Startups

Marketing

Investment

5 topics

Internet of things

Public Sector Magazine

Top

rated Web Summit as very good or excellent compared to other tech events

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Enterprise

50,500

74%

26%

people over three days got to taste and experience Irish food.

33% 42% 12% entrepreneurs

CEO level

c-level

Public Sector Magazine

Creating Shared Value Together

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Software Right Licensing • Contract Optimization • Deal Structure • Software License Negotiation… EXPERTS New York | New Jersey | Minnesota | California | Washington

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PERFECT PARTNERS Originally founded in 2006 as an IT-staffing/staff augmentation firm, Partners in IT has rapidly evolved into a fully operative IT solution provider offering managed professional services. In 2009/10, Partners in IT expanded into the Software Asset Management (SAM) area and formed partnerships with the world’s leading (SAM) Subject Matter Expert Firms – world class alliance partners that allow them to deliver consistent winning results around vendor management, software asset management and license negotiation solutions. CEO Mike Lake explains, “Software is such a complex and confusing area. It is the most unmanageable asset in the IT area but typically accounts for more than a third of the overall IT spend, which is very substantial in a large organisation. Software is not something you can physically see or touch, it’s not a desktop PC or a server and everything is now in the cloud, so you don’t get a box of discs anymore. It’s the most intangible asset in IT which is largely the reason why there is so much waste.” Mike points to numerous instances where the day to day use of resources bears little relation to what has been procured. “You need to determine precisely what is needed and ensure the organisation is only buying what each employee actually needs to do their job properly while ensuring that a flexible agreement is put in place which allows the organisation to grow. The benefit for every new customer we work with is that the agreement we negotiated with the last publisher represents the next starting point.” He is constantly surprised by the number of companies that buy software they already own and the numerous organisations which have bought cloud services from Microsoft and other vendors that their infrastructure could not even support. “The number of companies continuing to operate on old and outdated licensing terms is in the region of 70% and it’s costing them a small fortune,” he says. “For many organisations, these costs are substantial and they can quite readily be saved. Why pay for a service that you can’t use or don’t need?” There are numerous examples to illustrate the company’s success in delivering game changing financial savings. They acted on behalf of a global financial service company threatened with an audit from a major software publisher and exposed to a potential liability of over $45 million. In less than eight weeks they were able to discover, analyse and realign their licensing and reduce their potential liability to $8m, representing a saving of $37m. The team also acted on behalf of a large pharmaceutical firm which had been audited and found non-compliant because of over deployment of software. The companies were presented with a bill from the software publisher for $7.3m which was reduced by

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS SAVINGS TO THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN SOFTWARE LICENCE

103 76% following the intervention of their experts, a saving of over $5m. In addition the combined team has completed license negotiations for one of the world’s largest global consultancies with 65,000 employees and in short order saved the company 17.5 million on a single publisher negotiation. Looking to his ancestral home (Mike is a proud Irish American with roots that lead back to Dunkineely in Co. Donegal) the company are poised to make significant savings for public and private clients in Ireland in the first phase of an international expansion. “I feel a great affinity with Ireland and I know we can deliver meaningful costs savings for government departments and state agencies and make a valuable contribution to public sector reform efforts. I am impressed by the determined manner in which Ireland has addressed its financial difficulties and we are keen to play a part.” The timing seems ideal with signs of growth in the economy and greater transparency throughout the public sector. Mike’s confidence in his company’s ability to deliver significant savings to Irish clients is copper fastened by the fact that they offer clients the option of working on a contingency basis where the cost of their services is calculated as a percentage of savings achieved. Now that’s a deal that’s hard to refuse - an offer to work for free if the anticipated savings are not delivered. Just talk to your Partners in IT. ww.partnersinITinc.com

More than a silver liningâ&#x20AC;Ś

Public Sector Magazine

Are you looking for new ways to deliver Cloud services? Logicalis - the cloud builder, is best positioned to help your organisation start moving forward, with managed cloud computing and solutions that allow you to engage what is becoming the new norm.

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For more information on how to harness the power of public, private & hybrid cloud solutions, speak to our team today:

Visit www.ie.logicalis.com Call (01) 2958966 Email info@ie.logicalis.com Public Sector Cloud Ad Nov.indd 1

03/11/2014 14:12

LOGICALIS Logicalis is an international IT solution and managed services provider with extensive expertise in communications, collaboration, data centre & cloud services and managed services. The company regard the public sector as crucial to their business with a diverse range of clients operating within this sector whose specialist requirements have driven Logicalis to further develop their product oﬀerings. Cloud technology is particuarly relevant and as David O’Hagan, Managed Services Head at Logicalis explains, the benefits are clear, “Our cloud solutions deliver three common benefits, namely a reduction in the need for capital spending, improved services and managed IT services. We actively promote these benefits through notable publications such as the Public Sector Magazine and we hold regular breakfast seminars that cover relevant technological developments, industry insights and best practices for the public sector throughout Ireland.” Logicalis has been building, integrating, operating and securing some of the most complex systems & IT infrastructure in the public sector. The company is today at the forefront of innovative technological solutions for a growing number of public sector clients for whom “the design and implementation of highly available mission-critical systems requires a unique approach.” O’Hagan continues, “Our team members have accreditations from industry-leading vendors and have expertise in all major virtualisation and data centre platforms as well as cloud, storage, security, network and management provisioning solutions. We work across every technology and operational layer in the data centre. Whether you want to consolidate or virtualise your computing, storage or network environment, or transform management through aggressive operational automation, we can provide you with insight and practical solutions.” Logicalis has been on a strong growth curve over the past 18 months with a number of new partnerships being forged as well as new industry and technical specialists joining the team. In the immediate term the objective is to continue with the development of services and expertise across core areas with a view longer term to establish themselves as the partner of choice for infrastructure and cloud solutions for any public sector bodies that require modern, innovative IT solutions. Speaking of the recognition in achieving the Public Sector magazine award, O’Hagan says “this award is of key significance to us and we are delighted to be honoured for our work. We feel that the acknowledgement gives credence to our dedication to the public sector. We regularly get feedback from clients on foot of editorial contributions made within articles featured in Public Sector magazine. It is a formidable vehicle through which we promote our brand and we feel that our combined efforts really add value to the investment made.” Further commenting on the award, O’Hagan said: “We value these industry awards and accolades

very highly. For our customers these industry endorsements provide independent proof of Logicalis’ ability to deliver the most innovative and effective ICT solutions, together with the highest standards of customer care. We are delighted to receive this honour for Excellence in IT Cloud Solutions within the Public Sector 2014. Our investment and focus on cloud solutions and technologies in 2014 have led to the completion of a wide range of innovative projects for our clients throughout the public sector and beyond. “This acknowledgment further bolsters our standing as one of the leading cloud solutions provider in Ireland today.” In this age of business-on-demand it is vital to ensure that your server, network and storage virtualised infrastructures are fully optimised and ready to meet the dynamic requirements of your business. Increases in the number of end users, application demands, upgrades, and increased data throughput can all compromise your system resilience and lead to increased costs and a degraded service. With an Infrastructure Health Check, Logicalis can help you assess the health of your key systems and their underlying operating systems, and show you how you can keep them at peak performance. Logicalis are delighted to offer public sector bodies a free Infrastructure Healthcheck. www.ie.logicalis.com

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2014 14:12

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN IT CLOUD SOLUTIONS

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STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD Ireland’s second city is first in all respects according to people from Cork. The ‘real capital of Ireland’ is a compact city that manages to fit so much in. It is chock full of great restaurants fed by an abundance of local produce and a thriving foodie scene. An epicentre for business, Cork’s dynamicism is reflected in contemporary buildings, thriving universities, major international companies and a strong sense of heritage. Punching well above its weight Cork sweeps the boards in IT, Innovation, Library & Housing Services and Local Government in the 2014 Public Sector Magazine awards. A capital performance from Ireland’s second capital, Cork is a thriving example of a city that has it all.

COMHAIRLE CATHRACH CHORCAĂ? CORK CITY COUNCIL To achieve, in a sustainable manner and in co-operation with other key stakeholders, an enduring and better quality of life and a

Public Sector Magazine

robust local economy in Cork by

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balancing the relationship between communities, economic development and environmental quality

Cork City Council, City Hall, Anglesea Street, Cork, Tel: 021 4924000, Fax: 021 4314238, Email: corporateaffairs@corkcity.ie www.corkcity.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS LOCAL AUTHORITY OF THE YEAR

CORK CITY COUNCIL Cork is the second largest urban area in Ireland with a city population of c.119,000 and a metropolitan population of c.300,000 with signiﬁcant clusters of companies in information and communication technology (ICT), pharmaceuticals, medical devices, tourism and international services. It is also a university city with c.30,000 third level students, a national centre of excellence for health services and a significant public administration sector.

The Council quickly recognised tourism as an important pillar of economic growth. Tourism is labour intensive; it operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers work opportunities for full time employees and also young, casual and part time workers. It supports growth in other sectors – transport, construction, agriculture and retailing. It also plays a large part in forming the image of a city, helping to attract investment in other areas. Yet tourism is about more than money. The social benefits which accrue to communities involved in tourism are profound and wide ranging as it expands community facilities, helps preserve cultural heritage, broadens community outlook and opportunities and increases community awareness and pride. Arising from this a TEAM unit (Tourism, Event, Arts, Marketing) was set up from a restructuring of available staffing resources and an increase in visitor numbers together with some impressive accolades is testament to the success of the TEAM. Lonely Planet named Cork among the top 10 in the best cities to visit in the World saying that Cork “is at the top of its game right now: sophisticated, vibrant and diverse, while still retaining its friendliness, relaxed charm and quick-fire wit.” Yahoo Travel listed Cork as one of the world’s top 10 tourist cities to visit in 2013, alongside Istanbul, Kyoto, Vancouver and Singapore. It commented on Cork’s “youthful buzz, sophistication and mouth-watering eateries” and its arts and crafts stores, galleries, traditional coffee shops and pubs.” The Huffington Post ranked Cork top of its list of the most under-rated cities that visitors to Europe should see in their lifetime. “Dublin, the actual cap-

Condé Nast and Frommer’s Guide cited Cork as one of the world’s undiscovered gems. To build on the success if tourism to the area, Cork has developed its own special traditional Irish Music and dancing show called Pulses of Tradition and free music sessions in city centre pubs called The Lee Sessions. The City Council is also proposing to develop the National Diaspora Centre to celebrate both the millions of Irish people who have made a contribution in other countries and also the many people from foreign countries who have settled in Ireland and made a contribution to its society. Cork City has also developed strategic messaging and branding for the combined city and county area in co-operation Cork County Council, the Port of Cork, Cork Airport, University College Cork, Cork Institute of Technology and Fáilte Ireland. This messaging has four pillars – economic development, quality of life, education and tourism. Cork City Council continues to face significant challenges in delivering services to the citizens of Cork City. Despite this, “we continue to work, in conjunction with the Lord Mayor and Elected Members of Council, with a high level of commitment to ensure that Cork City’s vibrancy, attractiveness, and capacity to grow economically and socially is maintained” said Ann Doherty, Chief Executive Cork City Council who concludes, “Cork City Council is delighted to be awarded the accolade of The Public Sector Magazine Local Authority of the Year 2014.” www.corkcity.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Cork City Council is charged with leading the growth of the city’s economy and its social and physical structures in an environmentally sustainable manner. The Council has a vision of Cork City as a ‘sustainable city’ with an enduring and better quality of life and a robust local economy. While the task is exciting it is challenging when operating with significantly reduced resources, however with a strong will to deliver on its task the Council proactively sought out efficiencies in its operations and with active participation of staff, increased workloads have been achieved while significant savings on operational costs. “It is a testament to our staff who have been working under extremely difficult circumstances yet they continue to deliver the same exceptional level of service to the people of Cork” said the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Mary Shields.

ital is great. But if you’re looking for a city that is easy to navigate, with locals that are friendly and welcoming, and a laid-back vibe, Cork is for you.”

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST LOCAL AUTHORITY LIBRARY SERVICE

COVER TO COVER

IN CORK

The library has come a long way from its origins as ‘a building containing collections of books, periodicals and ﬁlms for use or borrowing by the public’. Modern libraries are increasingly being redeﬁned as places to get unrestricted access to information in many formats and as a gathering place for the local community.

In terms of education Ronayne says that projects are now an integral part of the Leaving and Junior Certificates so secondary schools from the city and the county bring classes to the Reference Library where pupils are introduced to the sources – articles and books – for their special topics in history. “Our libraries host classes in basic computer skills jointly with the VEC. More recently we offer more advanced e-learning classes, in co-operation with FÁS, and libraries also host computer training for visually impaired persons.” In partnership with the Centre for Continuing & Adult Education in UCC (CACE) Cork City Libraries make short courses accessible to local communities via libraries and the complete listing of the 2013/14 courses in UCC can be viewed online. The Council hosts literacy classes and classes on basic English in conjunction with the VEC, Welcome English and other agencies. “Libraries hold valuable resources to help people develop careers, to prepare for job interviews and start their own business. We hold information on careers, job creation, education and related initiatives” explains Ronayne. Cork Libraries have innovative programmes that take a very different approach to connect the past with the present. IT SEESM HISTORY IS TO BLAME looks to make sense of the period 1913 to 1923 and to promote discussion on lessons that can be taken from the positives and negatives of cultural and social developments one hundred years ago. “For example, as we try to make our way out of the ruins of the Celtic tiger, can the ideals and events of 1913-1923 be an inspiration? And what does that era have to teach us, if anything, about our present problems and how we might solve them?“ Ronayne continues, “The Libraries programme does not simply mark the centenaries; rather we are using them as a means of critically examining our present and future. It is not primarily a historical programme - the focus is on the current state of

Public Sector Magazine

In Cork city there are 7 libraries under the wing of Cork City Council and together they demonstrate everything that a modern day library should be. Liam Ronayne is Cork City Librarian. He says that libraries are centers of learning and support for all ages throughout the community. “Our libraries provide a learning space that is accessible, community-oriented, open, welcoming and non-judgmental. We provide a supportive environment with excellent facilities, excellent learning resources and skilled and helpful staff. We have strong links with agencies such as the City of Cork VEC, Lifelong Learning Festival, and Centre for Adult & Continuing Education, UCC, and FÁS, in order to enhance the range and quality of our supports for the learning city.”

the country and on what we might learn from the revolutionary period of a century ago”. The title of the programme – ‘it seems history is to blame’ - is a quotation from James Joyce’s Ulysses. For those who cannot get in to the library one of our best-appreciated services is the Housebound Service. Through this outreach service, which has been operational since 2007, Cork Libraries visit older and infirm members of the community, mostly people who used to visit libraries but can no longer get around. The Housebound van calls to people’s homes with a large selection of stock; many patrons request items in advance which staff then bring to them. Their oldest user was well over 100 years before she passed away, with many current users in their 70s, 80s and even 90s. For all of the hard copy volumes, technology also has its place. Access is available online to the full catalogue in all Cork City libraries via www.corkcitylibraries.ie and www.corkpastandpresent.ie. The website is an interactive facility with a growing body of unique digital content which includes downloadable library publications in pdf format; the CORK MUSIC ARCHIVE – scores, programmes, images and ‘The CONSTANT READER’ online resources to support reading in all its aspects, and for creative writing. A library app is available free in Apple and Android formats. It enables users to find the nearest library in Cork city, check the catalogue, see what’s on in local libraries and even to check if we have a copy of a book they might see in a bookshop or elsewhere. www.corkpastandpresent.ie and www.corkcitylibraries.ie

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INFORMATION COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS SERVICES

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✓✓ Enterprise Resource Planning ✓✓ Business Process Improvement ✓✓ Geographical Information Systems ✓✓ Infrastructure Management ✓✓ Virtualisation ✓✓ OpenData ✓✓ Business Intelligence

Cork City Council, City Hall, Anglesea Street, Cork, Ireland Tel: +353 21 4966222 Email: webmaster@corkcity.ie | Web: www.corkcity.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN IT SYSTEMS BY A LOCAL AUTHORITY

CORK CITY COUNCIL IT

Information is the lifeblood of any organisation and central to every process. In this important arena, Cork City Council ICT is a key enabler in allowing Cork City Council to meet its corporate objectives.

The council network infrastructure is vast with 70 remote sites and a user base of 900. The ICT department is committed to delivering the best technological and secure solutions in a cost effective manner and often leverage relationships with other public bodies to meet this objective. Challenges including the replacement of 300+ PC’s and the implementation of a mobile device management system have been met in 2014. Economic development is an important objective for the council and the ICT department is taking a leading role in achieving this with involvement in the Smart Cities project and their relationships with UCC and CIT on a water technology project. They are currently drafting a joint ICT strategy with Cork County Council and also hope to work with other local public bodies to work on common goals and projects. The replacement of internal and public facing legacy applications is a particular focus in 2014. “We are replacing our development planning application with ‘Odyssey’ a system originally developed and implemented by Cork County Council. We also intend to replace our mapping solutions allowing us to utilise mobile mapping solutions on all modern platforms. The council manages a myriad of data sets, some of which we intends to publish in an open data format so that the citizen, industry and academia can leverage the output” explains Gerard. The ICT department has a strong project management ethos and many staff are trained in the PMBOK methodologies and they follow these principles with all projects. Business Process Improvement (BPI) is a new area for the team and four staff members’ recently obtained the lean six sigma green belt

certification. Security, data protection, virus protection, device management, web and email management are all important to the ICT department and the drafting of detailed security policies and staff awareness training are occurring during 2014. The department applies a Performance Management Development System (PMDS) to define the main projects and duties assigned to staff on an annual basis. Training requirements to perform these tasks are also indentified and within resource limitations these needs are met. In 2014 staff members are completing degrees, masters and doctorates along with several courses in areas including project management, lean six sigma, leadership, system analysis, Oracle SQL and BI Publisher. Gerard concludes, “The ICT department will play a leading role in ensuring that the council works in a smart, efficient and cost effective manner through the principles of Lean Six Sigma and by implementing technological solutions. We wish to play a leadership role in the strategic and economic development of the city by building on our relationships with other public bodies, academia and organisations such as IT@Cork. The provision of intuitive, reliable and citizen centric online services to the community and public representatives allowing them to engage with the council in an efficient and proactive manner.” www.corkcity.ie

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Gerard Desmond, Acting Senior Executive Office for Information Systems describes the role of his department “We value our role in providing the citizen and public representatives with services and information to allow them interact with the council. We provide 22 websites, many for particular events such as the City Marathon and St Patrick’s Festival along with our main website www.corkcity. ie which has an average of 40,000 visits monthly. A representation system allows councilors to make online representations to council with an official city council letter acknowledgement being generated, this went live in May 2014.“

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Public Sector Magazine 114

Join us on Group Cork innovates

Like us on www.facebook.com/ Corkinnovates4business

CORK INNOVATES With 2014 designated as Year of Jobs, the challenge is on for local enterprise to promote local support services for business growth in their area. In this regard Cork Innovates set the bar high with a thorough and well planned approach. Siobhan Finn, Project Director explains, “Our key focus has been to build upon the innovative nature of the Cork entrepreneurial environment and its networks by engaging with and enabling outstanding collaboration among its partner members and external stakeholder groups in support of Cork entrepreneurs and the extended Cork business community. A multitude of stakeholders operating independently may result in resources not being collectively maximised for the benefit of the entrepreneur. Cork innovates has fostered engagement and facilitated agreement on common goals within a forum characterised by multi-party agendas, resulting in collaborative stakeholder engagement which contributes in a more advantageous manner the Cork’s entrepreneurial eco-system.” Cork Innovates has put several measures in place to ensure success in business growth with impressive results. The number of start-ups in Cork has almost doubled from 800 in 2012 to 1542 in 2013. The Cork Innovates InBusiness InCork showcase is specifically targeted to SMEs, start-ups and entrepreneurs and has attracted and supported more than 2,800 business people and potential start-ups since the initial showcase in 2012. The Cork innovates bursaries are also actively helping two Cork businesses grow and expand their companies, with a view to creating more jobs. “Cork innovates is not just about what it provides but also about the benefits which it delivers. It has supported economic development in collaboration with regional stakeholders since 2012” says Siobhan. An impressive event list with significant numbers in attendance have included the Inaugural InBusiness InCork Showcase 2012 (1,200+); InBusiness InCork Showcase 2013 (1,600+); Bursary Fund Competition 2012 - €12,500; Bursary Fund Competition 2013 -€30,000; Bursary Fund Competition 2014 -€30,000 and a Bursary events for 2014 with anticipated numbers of 2000 and a bursary purse of €30,000. Siobhan says that while Cork has an excellent infrastructure the importance of air access cannot be underestimated. “The results of the Cork Chamber 2012 business air travel survey reinforced the need for increased route development from Cork Airport, increased frequencies and competitive costs to sustain and grow business activity within the South of Ireland.”

For an organisation with innovation to the forefront of what they do, Cork Innovates are worthy recipients of the Public Sector award for excellence in business support services. Siobhan concludes, “The Cork innovates model has made a significant impact in promoting an entrepreneurial spirit within the Cork community. As a group, Cork innovates is firmly committed to building on the entrepreneurial environment through mutual engagement and alignments with external stakeholder groups, supporting entrepreneurs and the extended business community. Recognising and rewarding imaginative and successful initiatives which are formed using a tri-partied approach between public and private sector and third level institutions reinforces this best practice approach to providing a robust and actively engaged environment for our entrepreneurs.” www.corkinnovates.com

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT SERVICES TO BUSINESS

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SEE WHAT YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE MISSING Carlow County Museum is a place for you to explore and discover the rich history of County Carlow. The Museum is located on College Street (beside the library) We are open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 4.30 pm As always admission to the Museum is FREE Please contact us if you would like to get involved as a volunteer, or book a guided tour for your group or society

YOU CAN GET IN TOUCH BY: Email: museum@carlowcoco.ie or Tel (059 )913 1554 Follow us for news of events and much more www.carlowcountymuseum.ie facebook/carlowcountymuseum @carlowcountymus

OUTRIGHT WINNERS IRELAND’S NEWEST MUSEUM

LOOKING BACK

FORWARD THINKING Nationally there are twelve oﬃcial county/city museums in Ireland. A county museum is one that is operated by a Local Authority. Carlow is the second county museum in Leinster and the local authority are recognised by Public Sector Magazine for their outstanding achievement in developing Ireland’s newest county museum. Featured among its exhibits is the magnificent 19th century hand carved pulpit from Carlow Cathedral which has been included in the Irish Times ‘A History of Ireland in 100 objects’ series.

Significant building work was carried out to restore original features while also adding a sympathetic extension to house ancillary services. Below the original stairwell a window that was originally a door was reinstated for access to the museum’s extension. Described by Michael O’Boyle, Bluett & O’Donoghue Architects as a ‘book-end’, facilities such as offices, toilets, onsite storage and a canteen are housed in the new build. The extension is clad in cut Carlow limestone to complement the existing building which was built of limestone rubble.

The majority of the project costs for development of this fine facility were met from within Carlow Town Council’s own resources with grant assistance from the Heritage Council, the Department of Tourism, Culture & Sport, Carlow County Development Partnership and Fáilte Ireland. The staff are assisted by between fifty and sixty volunteers. Carlow County Museum is a fine example of a community coming together in partnership with their local authority. Together they have brought the past into the present and they have created something very special for the future.

Upstairs there are three exhibition rooms, formerly the sacristy and the sister’s cells (bedrooms). The two largest rooms house the permanent collection while the two smaller rooms are used for temporary exhibitions. A large north window above the stairs had all its broken panes of glass replaced while a new teak base was installed to replace rotten timbers. At the top of the stairs was the convent’s former chapel - arguably the most impressive room and an exhibition in itself. It had fifty ceiling panels gilded during the nineteenth century which were fully restored and re-gilded. Six beautiful windows were crafted in the early 1930s by Earley & Company of Camden Street, Dublin and their work is considered as good as Harry Clarke’s studio works. Designated by the National Museum of Ireland to collect archaeological finds, the museum is home to a large collection of objects which tell the history and heritage of the county. The collection has been gathered over the last forty years from the people of the county. The objects are displayed thematically – for locals to reminisce, for young people to get a sense of place and for visitors to gain an understanding of the rich heritage of the county.

In displaying a variety of artefacts from all over Carlow the museum encourages visitors to explore further into the county with exhibition panels that make references to places to visit, trails and drives to follow as well as websites to view for more information.

www.carlowcountymusuem.ie

Photographed in Carlow County Museum are Carlow County Council accepting the award for Best Local Authority Museum in the ‘Excellence in Business’ awards organised by the Public Sector Magazine. Included in the photograph is Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, members of Carlow County Council and the Museum Board along with Mr. Tom Barry, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council and staﬀ of Carlow County Museum & Tourist Oﬃce.

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Developed by Carlow Town Council with the Carlow Historical & Archaeological Society, the museum is housed in the former Presentation Convent, a landmark building in the centre of Carlow town. The ground floor was once used as a primary school until 1960. Originally there were three classrooms separated by partition walls with access provided by a corridor. These rooms have been amalgamated to open up the ground floor as one large space creating a large show area while maintaining the original charm of the building.

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS SERVICES TO THE ARTS

CREATIVE CAVAN Any business that does not have a website is missing out on one of the most powerful tools available. For those involved in the arts this is particularly true since performance and artistry are nothing if not visual. Cavan County Council has achieved great success in this regard with a strong ‘can do’ attitude and a workforce to be proud of.

Catriona explains, “Back in 2009 we looked at our website and saw that it was inadequate. We wanted to promote Cavan Arts by every means possible and we realized that a multimedia presence was the way forward. Since we wanted to engage with artists, we needed a visual site that would act as a portal for two way communication.” Daniel Peeters at Cavan County Council IT’s department worked with Rhonda Tidy, Public Art Manager and Kerrie Duffy, Digital Artist designing the site with a template bought from Themeforest. And they didn’t stop there. “The success of ‘This is Cavan’ showed us how important branding is and how essential it is to target your message (or indeed change it) depending on whom you hope to reach” says Catriona, so Martin Gaffney, a designer who specialized in branding came onboard and a new chapter began. Now everybody plays their part; Joanne Gorman, Clerical Officer, Joe Keenan, Project Co-coordinator (p/t), Una Mc Entee, HR and Marilyn Gaffney Intern along with Catriona maintain the website. Café Sessions and NYAH are examples of arts organisation who update their own details. Marilyn as intern shadows the work and maintains visual communications benefiting Cavan with her visual skills and she in turn gains excellent real time experience. They say good leadership starts at the top and Catriona explains that commitment is 100% across the board “Eoin Doyle, Director of Services and Ger Finn, Chief Executive are very keen to ensure that the arts integrates into other aspects of life where possible. The better quality of arts you have the better quality of life for people in the community”. She continues, “We have a growing reputation for the arts in this area and the arts community itself is what attracts other artists to come, to live and

to be part of our community. We have been blessed to host huge events over the last few years in the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and Taste of Cavan. This has placed Cavan firmly in the spotlight and we were delighted to show that we can shine!” Well shine they did at the recent Cavan Theatre Festival – an event that sprang out of an idea from local man Kieron Smith who together with Karina Charles assembled an army of volunteers and created a hugely successful 4 day festival of back to back events with more than 85% ticket uptake. Cavan Arts reaches out in every direction including across the border. In collaboration with the Arts Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland they promote ‘arts for everyone’ building bridges through the arts and running events with the themes of community, peace and regeneration. Whatever is in the water in Cavan it’s certainly worth paying for! Catriona O’Reilly speaks for all her team when she expresses her delight at winning this award. She concludes, “We are so lucky to work in arts; to do a job we enjoy and with such creative people. Working with people who are energetic and constantly re-imagining is inspirational – I suppose a bit of it is bound to rub off.” www.cavancoco.ie

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When it came to promoting the arts in their community it was down to one simple thing, communication. Catriona O’Reilly, Arts Officer, says that if you can communicate your message well then you start a two way conversation that can be mutually beneficial. The best way to do this in the modern age is via social media so Cavan County Council set about establishing a strong presence in the cloud.

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MALLOW DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP POSITIONING MALLOW FOR ITS FUTURE IN IRELAND’S NEW ECONOMY

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN GENERATING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MALLOW DEVELOPMENT

PARTNERSHIP

Seven years ago, the people of Mallow sat down to discuss a community response to an unfolding, large scale and negative economic reality. The closures in quick succession of the local sugar company, chocolate crumb factory and the migration of much dairy processing away from Mallow had dealt a huge blow. Arising from that economic shock, Mallow Development Partnership (MDP) was established consisting of all the business, political, community and statutory agencies in the town with clear objectives in mind - to promote Mallow and encourage inward investment.

The Partnership engaged with third level institutions such as University of Limerick, Cork Institute of Technology, the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL) and University College Cork. Mallow is now an exemplar for a radical new approach to the teaching of mathematics and science in primary and secondary schools and for the embedding of a critical mass of technology-related activity in towns of its size. It is now the lead school district nationally for researching and piloting initiatives and developments in the teaching of mathematics and science. In the first project of its kind to be undertaken in Ireland, 5 secondary and 16 primary schools in the Mallow area partnered with the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning which is based at the University of Limerick. This collaboration sees all schools in the project receiving specialised and intensive inputs from NCE-MSTL, focused on Continuous Professional Development for Teachers on an enquiry – based approach to teaching. Mallow has become the incubation hub for new approaches to science and mathematics and the springboard for future national programmes. Specially appointed research staff, supported by NCE-MSTL directors and project officers, run the programme. The bulk of the funding (€350,000) required for the initial four years of the project was sourced from locally-based companies including Barry Group, Greencore, Dairygold, Mallow Credit Union and local county councils. The success of the programme is outstanding with secondary schools reporting an increase in uptake of higher level Leaving Certificate maths; an increase in uptake of Leaving Certificate physics and chemistry; an increase

It is now proposed to extend the schools programme for a further two years. The Extension Project will have the added status of the direct involvement of the National Council for Curriculum Assessment. Google will continue to be involved in the establishment and application of a new, virtual ‘community of learning’ linking all schools and teachers in the project on a secure IT platform, facilitating the sharing of teaching resources and the co-teaching of curriculum modules. One of the spin offs of the MDP/NCE-MSTL collaboration has been the Mallow Science and Maths Family Fair. Some of the country’s top educational and commercial institutions have worked with both groups to host Ireland’s largest community-based Science and Maths Fair. Over 10,000 adults and children have attended the Fair, now in its fourth year. Participants included many of the top names in industry and education including Johnson and Johnson, LIT, CIT, UCC and EMC Ireland. The work to develop Mallow’s profile as a technology-facilitating town has been further underpinned by the establishment of the Mallow Systems Innovation Centre (MSIC). The first of its type in the country, MSIC sees CIT staffing a new unit in the town to co-ordinate field trials for research projects to work collaboratively with local companies and educational institutions and to create a critical mass of technology-related activity in the town. The project is funded from Cork County Council’s Economic Development Fund. There is little doubt that Mallow is demonstrating a progressive and innovative community response to economic challenges. Its work will help to position the town and North Cork for the future. www.mallowchamber.ie

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The Partnership was very aware that the next phase of Irish economic development would be based on knowledge economy activities such as pharma, biopharma, ICT, environmental and green technologies – all of which were driven or influenced by third level institutions and R & D. That fundamental truth led the town to a series of remarkable collaborations with an innovative focus on education, new technologies, innovation and skills.

in students’ enthusiasm for science at Junior Cycle level and for the first time Junior Cycle second year students were not streamed in maths.

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ExcEllEncE in BusinEss AwArds

design: www.ph7.ie

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Excellence in Business Awards 2014 county MusEuM dundAlk louth county council

visit us at: Roden Place, Jocelyn Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth

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Please visit: Made in Galway CoCo 1/2.indd 1

www.madeingalway.ie

www.galway.ie 03/02/2014 14:28

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS

ALL THINGS

TO ALL PEOPLE The County Museum, Dundalk is located in a beautifully restored late 18th century warehouse in the Carroll Centre at Roden Place in Jocelyn Street. Originally funded by Dundalk Town Council (and now Louth County Council) the museum opened in 1994 and oﬀers an extensive programme of permanent and temporary displays, drama presentations, music recitals and lectures.

Curator Brian Walsh says that he is a firm believer in the 3 R’s – relevant, relevant, relevant. “By its very nature a Museum collection can and should play a dynamic role in the lifeblood of its community. Done properly the museum can be all things to all people – seasonal activities for children; curriculum-based events for pupils; a variety of roles –research, developmental, technical for 3rd level students; exhibitions and conferences for adults; university of the 3rd Age for retirees; history for locals and visitors alike – not forgetting the dayto-day responsibility of collecting, documenting and recording the past for future generations. From a development perspective the trick is to design a paradigm which can accommodate these objectives. This can be done through the strategic nurturing of relationships at all levels of the operation. Once this is done all of the above may be achieved and the only limitations are self-imposed.” Technology makes its way into all walks of life and Dundalk Museum achieved a European first with the installation of a Casio Virtual Presenter. The joint project by the Museum, Casio and Quick Response Ireland is the first of its kind in the country and the first such installation at a European museum. Internationally, only one other Virtual Presenter has gone into use, in Japan. “Given the culture that exists here, the desire to provide a quality service and with it the inclination to embrace not only new technology but new ways of doing the same job is hugely important” explains Walsh. “By honing our craft the transmission of information to the public becomes easier, allowing us to develop new channels of communication. We’re looking to be the best that we can be. By guiding this enthusiasm

our individual skill-sets are improved and with it the quality of the service provided.” The museum is currently preparing for an exhibition marking the centenary of the Easter Rising, due to open at the end of this year and to run through to Easter 2016. Particularly interesting is the approach; to look at the Rising as part of a series of events over the course of 300 years, highlighting the complexity of the issues and looking at various aspects of the event and the people involved. Speaking with Brian it is clear that he is hugely passionate about his work. “Our Museum relates the story of the county’s development; it’s the tale of our fathers and mothers how they worked, lived, sported and played; it reminds us of our forebears, a people who had dreams and aspirations. Some were fortunate to realize these, others weren’t; it’s our story, it’s the story of who we are and how we came to be this way. It’s a tale that needs to be shared, and it’s a privilege to be in a position to tell it. “ www.dundalkmuseum.ie

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The past year has been particularly busy. Since January the museum has organized a large number of exhibitions and projects ranging from a cultural history of the Boyne River for the National Maritime Festival in Drogheda to an exhibition on the father of the modern submarine John Phillip Holland. This particular exhibition formed the backdrop to the Central Bank’s launch of a commemorative coin to Holland. There was also an exhibition celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Museum’s opening in 1994 all alongside regular day to day guided tours, walking tours of the town and the huge task of building, developing and cataloguing an already extensive collection.

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Limerick Regeneration

Delivering safe and sustainable communities • MOYROSS • BALLINACURRA WESTON • SOUTHILL • ST. MARYS PARK

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06/11/2014 11:53

OUTRIGHT WINNERS COMMUNITY & SOCIAL REGENERATION

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LIMERICK

REGENERATES Regenerating Limerick is now a realistic plan rather than the ‘pie in the sky’ set out in the master plans prepared in 2008, Mayor Kathleen Leddin said as Limerick City Council formally adopted the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan. Originally a €3 billion scheme involving private sector investment the City Council has now given the go ahead to a more realistic programme of €300 million to be spent in Moyross, Southill, King’s Island and Ballinacurra Weston over the next 10 years. Brian Geaney, Senior Executive Oﬃcer at Limerick City & County Council talks about the ambitious plans to deliver on this challenging project.

Public Sector Magazine

“The new plans that were recently agreed involve a more modest and realistic regeneration programme, estimated at €300 million over a ten year period. There is a commitment from government and the local authority to the regeneration of the communities originally targeted in 2007” explains Geaney. He says that an integrated programme of physical, economic and social renewal is planned. This is effectively a significant refocusing of the original programme. On the physical side, the emphasis is on refurbishment and upgrading of the housing stock, selected new build housing schemes, upgrading / development of community infrastructure and opening up estates and improved connectivity. There is a significant programme to support social regeneration, address priority themes including education and learning, health and well-being, ageing well, employability and work, families and youth at risk and community engagement and development. In the new programme, there is a stronger focus on economic regeneration, in particular, to open up economic opportunities including social enterprise, access to further education, training and employment schemes and jobs for residents in regeneration areas. “We believe that this programme will be effective.”

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There are lots of exciting plans for Limerick under the Limerick 2030 plan which is providing a real vision for the development of Limerick over the next 15-20 years. A small number of strategic sites across the city and county will provide a home for new and imaginative developments from financial services to knowledge industries in Limerick. They will also help exploit Limerick’s sectoral advantages in ICT, Manu-services, sports technology, tourism/ creative industries and pharma/health sciences. There is significant progress in developing the Opera Centre site, the Colbert Station transport node, the Hanging Gardens office plaza, the Cleeves strategic zone, the Innovation Hub and the former Anderson facility in Rathkeale among others. “All are in various stages of development with the government giving the go ahead for the re-location of Revenue to the Opera site and proposed demolition of Sarsfield House” he said. He continues, “Planning is now underway around the development of the Innovation Hub at LEDP Roxboro that will extend to 40,000 square feet and will act as incubation and innovation space for projects graduating from LIT, UL and beyond. The project should be completed by autumn 2015, creating close to 150 direct jobs. Another 75 jobs will be created in the 10 associated Community Enterprise Centres.” Regeneration entered a new phase after the Limerick Regeneration Agencies 5 year remit concluded in June 2012 and responsibility given to the Office of Regeneration within Limerick City & County Council. The Office of Regeneration engaged in the preparation of the new Framework Implementation Plans, which build on the experience of the former programme but also take into account the changed context of regeneration including the deep recession and global financial crisis from 2008/09. The new plans were subject to an extensive consultation process in the communities throughout 2013 and were approved as a policy document by Limerick City Council in February 2014. It seems ambitious to task the Council with instigating real community and social change but Geaney is confident that they can indeed achieve this. He explains, “In our new local authority, we view our communities at the centre of change and this can be achieved through a cohesive, participative and responsive approach to the social, community and cultural development of Limerick. Our vision for Limerick is a socially inclusive place where there are cultural opportunities and choices for people of all ages, abilities and cultures; a place where the

concept of ‘age friendliness’ is embedded into the hearts and minds of all service providers and a place where the arts, library and cultural services promote community cohesion and wellbeing.” He is also a believer in a proactive, responsive and integrated approach to the delivery of sports, recreation, arts, museum, and library services. “We are hoping to instigate change and further promote citizen engagement through the establishment of a new network called the ‘Public Participation Network’ aimed at enhancing and expanding the role played by community groups in the formulation of local government policy and the future development of local communities across Limerick.” Geaney sees the Public Participation Network (PPN) as the new representative voice of the community and voluntary, social inclusion and environmental sectors in Limerick. “It’s a good example of Putting People First as it will be the first point of contact for the local authority when it is seeking input from citizens and communities into Council plans and policies and the main link through which the local authority connects with the community and voluntary, social inclusion and environmental sectors” he said. For all of the positives there is no getting over the fact that Limerick has received some pretty bad press over the years. How can the Council address this? “Becoming National City of Culture 2014 has been an important catalyst beginning a renaissance of the image of our city leaving behind old clichés and misconceptions about Limerick which we have all long grown tired of” he said. For Geaney Limerick is a great place to work and live with many new jobs announcements over the last 12 months, an ample supply of good quality housing, a thriving arts and culture community and an energetic and skilled third level population. He goes on to say that Limerick is now ranked as one of the top 10 places in Europe in which to invest by international magazine, Site Selection, in its annual Global ‘Best to Invest’ Report and this has helped focus attention on Limerick to help drive investment and enterprise into the city. Talking with Brian it is easy to see that he is proud of his city and his steely determination to show his city’s best side is clear. He concludes, “In hoping to be designated European Capital of Culture 2020, Limerick will maintain the climate of support for culture that has been achieved in 2014 thereby giving culture a real chance over a six-year period to deliver the economic, social and cultural benefits for the City.

OUTRIGHT WINNERS LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT SERVICES TO BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MADE IN

GALWAY 2014 is the year of jobs with Local Enterprise Oﬃces acting as a ﬁrst stop shop for anyone wanting to start or expand their business. Brian Barrett, Community, Enterprise and Economic Development Unit at Galway County Council explains what his Council are doing to support services in his area.

One of many challenges to be faced is globalisation. With improved international accessibility, the marketplace is more competitive. “Our Tourism product competes with the rest of the world. Our local shops have to compete with international online retailers. Consumers have much higher expectations and can access much greater range of experiences. We must make our local towns and villages more attractive as places to live, work and visit. We must foster rejuvenation of these places and spaces”, says Barrett. He feels that the Council must assist communities to revitalise their areas. This will enable them to survive the winds of change that are being brought about by globalisation. Barrett feels that the incorporation of the Local Enterprise Office into the local authority has brought a valuable new skill-set for supporting micro enterprise which complements that existing work that Galway County Council has been engaged in. Galway County Council look to best practice from all over the world and bring this to the attention of relevant actors in County Galway. “We are bringing in expertise to inform our policy and activities to ensure that we are providing a supportive environment for enterprise. We are working with our third level educational institutions, NUIG and GMIT to identify the critical actions that need to be taken to foster economic growth. We are investing in infrastructure so that the region remains competitive and attractive as a location for enterprise and as a place to visit or live. We are currently preparing an economic development strategy in partnership with Galway City Council to guide development in the region” he says. Infrastructure is hugely important to trade and tourism and the completion of the M18/M17 will ensure that the county is accessible via motorway and via Shannon and Knock airports. Galway County Council is also working to progress the development of the Galway City Outer Bypass. “We will be developing the Galway Greenway between Clifden and Galway City to provide an incredible tourism

resource. In conjunction with Failte Ireland we will be developing the route of the Wild Atlantic Way.” says Barrett. A new county development plan will be adopted over the coming months and will provide a road map for economic development facilitating initiatives on the ground to tackle unemployment. “We will be further developing the Made in Galway initiative to promote the wealth of activity in the food, craft and creative sectors”. The Meet West network is being held in Galway in November and will bring over 300 businesses from the region together. In December a Facebook and publicity campaign will promote the Made in Galway brand and encourage people to shop locally for Christmas. There is little doubt that Barrett and his team are working tirelessly to support local business. How does he feel about winning the Public Sector magazine award? “The awards are welcome in that they confirm that we are doing the right thing. That they come from the Public Sector magazine is good because it demonstrates that independent organisations feel we are getting it right. It encourages us to continue to undertake innovative approaches to supporting the business community in our region. Head of Enterprise Galway, Breda Fox concludes “Our LEO office is committed to continue to develop and promote a pro-active, pro business environment which supports Enterprise and Enterprising people throughout Galway City and County. We will assist both new and established Enterprise to consolidate and grow. The Galway LEO is your one stop shop for all your business needs in Galway so please consider us your local resource and aid in accessing support for your Business” www.galway.ie

Public Sector Magazine

“Galway County Council has been working in this space for a number of years so continuing our support services is where we start. We provide economic infrastructure from roads to cycle-ways, piers to walks to facilitate economic activity. We support collective economic actions be they the development of enterprise centres or events and festivals. We work in partnership with other development agencies to host events that bring about economic growth, for example the Meet West networking event in November or the Taking Care of Business event last Spring. We foster growth in specific sectors such as the film sector or food and craft sector. Made in Galway is our attempt to provide a virtual marketplace for food and craft producers based in Galway.”

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C IL

KI L

COUNTY CO UN

AD SAFET

www.kildareroadsafety.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Kildare County Council and Kildare Gardai

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Working Together for a Safer Journey We appeal to all road users to use the road safely and wisely and to share the road. Be Cautious, Courteous and Considerate. From An Garda Siochana and Kildare County Council

www.kildareroadsafety.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS BEST ROAD SAFETY WEBSITE

THE ROAD TO SAFETY WITH

KILDARE COUNTY COUNCIL Kildare County Council has established a full and comprehensive Road Safety Plan which looks at all aspects of road safety in county Kildare, in particular focusing on the four ‘E’s of road safety; Education, Engineering, Enforcement and Evaluation. This message is brought home clearly in a very accessible way on a website that is easy to engage with and hugely informative. Public Sector Magazine

Road Safety Officer Declan Keogh is active throughout the county on a continuous basis, visiting schools, businesses and attending as many outdoor events and activities as possible to promote road safety. County Kildare has not had many fatal road traffic collisions so far this year compared to other counties, however, last year County Kildare had a high number. Declan Keogh says it is never easy to predict how many fatalities will occur in any county. “By year end, we always see how many people have died on the roads, but during the year, we never see how many we have saved, yet Kildare’s trend in terms of fatalities is relatively low”.

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In terms of road safety awareness, “I believe education and enforcement are the key elements which will help to reduce serious collisions, reduce serious injuries and fatalities and providing road users with a more informed and educated view on their behaviors on the roads. I also believe that working together as partners with the various stakeholders such as the Gardai, Local Authority engineers, the RSA and other bodies is very positive” says Declan. Declan is convinced that standards must be adhered to in order to deliver the level of safety that the council has set out to achieve. He explains, “In the Kildare Road Safety Plan 2012 – 2015, we set out a total of sixty nine key actions under four sub headings within the four main E’s of road safety. Education: 32 Actions, Engineering: 10 Actions, Enforcement: 17 Actions and Evaluation: 10 actions. We continue to work towards all of these actions.” Education is also an important focus with 29 adult school wardens and 90 junior school wardens under the supervision of the Road Safety officer in Kildare. Training, education and safety in the workplace are paramount for these wardens, in particular the adult wardens. Kildare County Council like all local authority’s provide training and PPE to all wardens and it is the role of the RSO to ensure that the correct operational procedures are being adhered to and that there is a good network link between school management, the students and the school wardens.

Declan’s goal is to reduce the level of collisions on Kildares roads and by doing this “we hopefully reduce the numbers of those injured and unfortunately killed on the roads. I want to restructure our road Safety Working Group to incorporate the recent changes in Local Government and introduce a broader committee. The RSWG is a key factor in terms of a collective approach and response in dealing with road safety.” County Kildare has a road network of over 2000 kilometers of roadway and it is a very busy commuter county in itself with a high population. There is and has always been a high emphasis on road safety in County Kildare and thankfully, between the work being done by Kildare County Council, the Gardai and the road users in general, road deaths have reduced. www.kildareroadsafety.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF MAJOR PUBLIC PARK AT BLACKWATER, NAVAN

OPEN SPACES

HAPPY FACES When it comes to quality of life over 95% per cent of people believe it is very important to have a green space amenity close to where they live. Structured open spaces can beneﬁt communities in a multitude of ways with increased levels of social interaction, activity and health beneﬁts and general environmental sustainability.

In 2002, Meath County Council acquired 68 acres of land from Tara Mines. They engaged Ferguson McIlveen to prepare a framework plan for the development of the park with a view to a phased delivery having regard to indicative costs of €12m. Plans for the park went on public display in June 2004 and An Bord Pleanála granted permission in May 2005. Blackwater Park was officially opened on Friday, 19th April, 2013 and is a community focal point that exceeds all expectations. It has become very popular with growing numbers using the facilities particularly the resurfaced looped footpath. With such an ambitious project there were bound to be hurdles. The location of the site, in particular its proximity to the river Blackwater, presented its own challenges. In addition, having regard to the fact that Meath is renowned for its heritage, there were important archaeological, flora and fauna issues to consider. The contractor, Tal Civil Engineering, engaged an archaeologist who oversaw construction. As the site was stripped a Bronze Age settlement, burial grounds and a medieval grave were discovered. Also, an invasive species of Japanese Knotweed had to be treated and buried in accordance with best practice and ecological mitigation measures had to be taken to protect resident Badgers. A project was undertaken with all of the local National Schools whereby the trees lining the entrance driveway were planted to represent all the primary school children of Navan. A number of charities have chosen to use the park to hold fundraising events and Meath Local Sports Partnership, walking clubs and local gyms are among the ever increasing users of the park.

Playing pitches which can cater for gaelic games, soccer and rugby are due to be handed over in the very near future and will attract teams and supporters countywide. A playground is due for completion which will see more families with children using the park. What seemed like a mammoth task is now a beacon of achievement for Meath County Council but Chief Executive, Jackie Maguire says “there are further plans for the future development of the Park. In the short to medium term, we look forward to the pitches and playground being in active use and providing other amenities (e.g. bowling green, formal gardens, multi-use gaming areas, fishing platforms, picnic areas, auditorium etc.). In the longer term, we look forward to a new pedestrian bridge over the Blackwater linking the park to Balmoral on the Kells Road in close proximity to the town centre. This will further enhance accessibility and integration with the town for the benefit of all.” www.meath.ie

Public Sector Magazine

In County Meath the development of a major park is a significant achievement for Meath County Council and a resounding success with locals. Jackie Maguire, Chief Executive says that it had always been a long term objective of the Council to provide a public park in Navan to cater for the rapidly increasing population of over 28,000. “We are honoured to receive this award and delighted that the people of Navan and the surrounding area can avail of this first class amenity.”

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Public Sector Magazine

5 132

reasons to Foster

Make a positive difference

Help children feel safe and secure

Enable children to achieve their full potential

Develop childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self esteem and sense of pride

Support children to face their future with confidence

To find out more about becoming a foster parent ring (01) 8665291 or visit fiverriversfostering.ie

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FIVE RIVERS Five Rivers Ireland recruit, train and support foster families to care for children who have come into care. Committed to ensuring that there are families who can meet the needs of children and young people who cannot live at home, they work in partnership with young people, foster families, birth families and Tusla Child and Family Services to achieve the best outcomes for children and young people. Over the last 12 months Five Rivers Ireland has delivered foster families to over 100 children and young people as well as providing emergency placements for children and young people who come into care out of hours. Director Deirdre McDonagh takes a holistic view to each individual in her care, “We have supported children and young people in our care to achieve their full potential, with a number of young adults now engaged in training or third level education. We have expanded our training and therapeutic services for foster families and the children and young people they care for.”

Public Sector Magazine

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC SECTOR

This year Five Rivers Ireland purchased a property in Kilkenny with a view to expanding support and training services as well as developing a hub for foster carers in the south east region. The house in Kilkenny will also be an ideal venue to support children in care to maintain contact with their birth families. Since the financial crisis hit, the resources available to the Child and Family Agency to safeguard children and to provide for children in care have been reduced significantly. This has meant that areas are more reluctant to use private agencies. Five Rivers Ireland has always been committed to providing high quality services that are cost effective and represent good value for money. “We have sought to achieve savings in areas which do not impact on the quality of service delivery to foster families. In doing this we have been able to reduce the cost of using our service significantly to Tusla. We believe in investing in young people from the outset, as the return will be felt for many years to come” explains McDonagh. Five Rivers Ireland’s focus is on growing the three hubs in Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork from which therapeutic, training and support to foster families and the children in their care can operate. “Our aim is to be able to provide a complete wraparound service to meet the growing and complex needs of children and young people coming into care” says McDonagh. Five Rivers Ireland operates within all current legislation and national standards. This includes operating in accordance with Children First, adhering to the National Standards for Foster Care and the Child Care Regulations. Policies and procedures include child protection policies and recruitment procedures for staff and foster carers which are compliant with legislation and national standards. There is also a commitment in the employee hand-

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book and foster carers’ handbook to the support and development of staff and families through quality supervision and training. All staff members are provided with regular supervision and there is significant access to internal and external training enabling staff to update their skills and remain well informed and capable of doing their job. A number of employees have been supported to complete training in psychotherapy, play therapy and management up to masters and post graduate level. As part of annual appraisals, training objectives are agreed for employees. Five Rivers Ireland aims to provide high quality foster care placements for children and young people who cannot live with their own families. McDonagh concludes, “Our objective is to expand our education, training and therapeutic services to enable us to support children and young people with more complex needs. We are committed to working alongside Tusla providing targeted support and interventions to ensure that resources are used most effectively and to achieve the best outcomes for children and young people.” Over the next five years, Five Rivers Ireland aims to develop central hubs from which enhanced foster care services can be provided. The goal is to ensure that children and young people placed with families have good care experiences and achieve positive outcomes. www.fiveriversireland.ie

IRELAND IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Public Sector Magazine

Representatives of the global elite were present in droves at the recent Web Summit. It was the place to be for a spot of people watching with everyone from political leaders to rock stars and Desperate Housewives all having their say.

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“I’m a spoiled rotten overpaid rockstar” Bono

Darina Allen buttered bread for the masses at the Web Summit – It was a Riverdance moment for Irish Food

“I’ve always been political, I campaigned for Bill Clinton’s when I was 17.” Eva Longoria

Enda Kenny

Public Sector Magazine

The Government wants to create jobs by backing “risk takers, creators and innovators”. The Web Summit was held in Ireland “in recognition of Ireland’s standing as a digital leader and as a location for business”

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Public Sector Magazine

Actor Adrian Greenier talked about life outside the big screen when it comes to business

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marketing for Google is a mash up of science and art told through storytellingâ&#x20AC;? Lorraine Twohill Carlow native & Head of Marketing, Google

Liam Casey, founder of $1 billion turnover PCH, predicts that a smart city sensor project demonstrated at the Dublin Web Summit could be rolled out in cities around the world.

Public Sector Magazine 137

Golfer and Ryder Cup Captain Paul McGinley

â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a writer my habitat is in danger of disappearing. After the explosion of the Internet, long form TV series has emerged as the most dominant form of storytellingâ&#x20AC;? Acclaimed Director, Neil Jordan

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Along with providing training for Local Authority and Private Group Water Scheme Personnel, Castlebar Regional Training Centre are continuously developing and delivering courses/seminars that meets the changing needs in the currant environment for both the public and private sectors Life long learning is provided in three main areas

•Practical task based courses for Water Services, Environment and Roads Staff. •Health & Safety Courses •High Level Professional (CPD) / Leadership Courses & Seminars. To make a reservation or indeed if you require further information please contact: Maura Lawless, Manager, Castlebar Regional Training Centre 094 90 47671 / 7672 Email: crtc@mayococo.ie www.lasntg.ie www.castlebar–rtc.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN SERVICES IN TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

LIFELONG TRAINING

IN CASTLEBAR Learning is a lifelong endeavour, whether it takes place in the classroom or in the workplace. Training presents a prime opportunity to expand the knowledge base of all employees and it is essential for an organisation’s success.

Lifelong learning is provided in four main areas, Practical Outdoor Courses for Water Services, Environment and Roads Staff; A full range of Health & Safety Courses and high Level Professional (CPD) / Leadership courses and seminars. Training provided is to the highest standard as recognised by the Public Sector magazine Award for excellence in Training & Development. This award is something that Manager Maura Lawless says “Recognises the commitment of our team to deliver top level courses in a pleasant and conducive environment”. All courses are to the highest standard and approved by the relevant bodies. “We aim to service the training needs of Group Water schemes, Water Services and Roadworks Personnel in Local Authorities, in addition to providing quality training to all levels of Local Authority staff in the Region” explains Lawless. Water services courses have been approved by the Department of the Environment for Grant Funding for Staffs employed in the water services sections of Local Authorities to help them to upskill and ensure that the service provision in Water Treatment and delivery and Wastewater Treatment is of the highest standards as set out in the Water Framework Directive. Some courses are eligible for CPD Credits for Technical and Engineering Staff. All Roads Courses and Mandatory Safety Courses are Grant approved by the Department of Transport for approved staffs working in the Roads Section. A number of other courses are provided to help staffs to be upskilled and enable them to meet the challenges of the current economic climate with the

provision of cost effective services. Lawless concludes, “Investing in employee development is connected to increased job satisfaction as well as to productivity and efficiency. Our courses are designed to be informative, effective and enjoyable. The fact that we have won this award tells us that we must be getting it right which makes us all feel pretty good.” www.castlebar-rtc.ie www.lasntg.ie

Public Sector Magazine

In 1993, the Water Services National Training Group was established to examine the training needs of staff working in the water service area and to make recommendations on how to address these needs. Castlebar Regional Training Centre is assigned to facilitate the training needs of staff in Mayo, Galway, Leitrim, Longford and Roscommon. The centre is a modern purpose built facility situated adjacent to the civic offices of Mayo County Council. It provides a vast range courses in the areas of health and safety, roads, environment and water services – all of which are open to the public sector, local authorities, utilities and the private sector.

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DUBLIN FIRE BRIGADE

Public Sector Magazine

EXTERNAL TRAINING

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DUBLIN FIRE BRIGADE EXTERNAL TRAINING Providing Fire and Safety training to fire services and the general community nationwide and beyond.

CONTACT DETAILS For details and bookings contact: Dublin Fire Brigade Training Centre, Malahide Rd, Marino, Dublin 3. Phone (01) 673 4433 Email: info@dfbexternaltraining.ie Web: www.dfbexternaltraining.ie

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DFB External Training was established by Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) as an independent training entity. It provides essential fire, health and safety training to private and public sector organisations and individuals outside of DFB personnel. All training instructors are qualified fire officers, providing the latest in safety training. The content and delivery of all courses are of the highest quality in excellence and best practice. COURSES INCLUDE:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Full Fire Service Recruit Programme R.T.C. T.T.L. Driver/Operator Swift Water Rescue Technician C.A.F.S. Operator ROSPA Accredited Advanced driving Compartment fire behaviour/instructor B.A. wearer/instructor Rope Rescue Fire Marshall/Fire Safety Awareness/ Fire Manager Safe use of portable fire fighting equipment Occupational First Aid Emergency First Responder A.E.D. Emergency Medical Technician Confined Spaces Manual handling Water Awareness Height Awareness Marine Firefighter Driver Awareness

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TRAINING TO

HIGH STANDARDS Eﬀective health and safety training underpins the preventive approach of the 2005 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and other health and safety legislation. Employers must provide their employees with the instruction and training necessary to ensure the health and safety of the workplace and workforce so who better to look to than the Dublin Fire Brigade for excellence in safety standards.

Breeda Melvin, Senior Staff Officer explains “Our main focus is to provide our emergency personnel with training to the highest level. In ensuring this, we are then in a position to deliver quality training externally at the optimum standard. We are maximising community safety by delivering a work experience programme to over 120 students annually in addition to the provision of required training to clubs and other community organisations. We are seeking to enhance our business by employing a focused marketing strategy which will attract more business both at home and abroad.” DFB External Training was established by Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) as an independent training entity to deliver high quality, cost effective fire, health and safety training to private and public sector organisations and individuals outside of DFB personnel. Instructors are all qualified fire personnel so they not only know their subject, they know the realities of hazardous situations and how best to react. DFB External Training goes beyond providing training that simply meets obligatory requirements; it ensures that companies have best practice procedures in place to deal with any emergency. In recognition of the high level of training DFB External Training are delighted to have won the Public Sector Magazine Award 2014. DFB External Training holds the ISO 9001: 2008 for Quality Management. It is also accredited by bodies such as FETAC, Rescue 3, Pearson, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council and the Road Safety Authority. “We are accredited by several relevant bodies, including ISO. We are continuously striving to meet new standards and are currently working on transferring all of our qualifications to the QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) standard which we aim to have completed by

2015. We are a procedure and policy-led organisation which is continuously audited both internally and externally to ensure that our high standards are maintained” explains Breeda. When it comes to safety there can be no compromise. Dublin Fire Brigade External Training are leaders in their field and deserved winners of the Public Sector Magazine Award for excellence in training. www.dfbexternaltraining.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXTERNAL TRAINING

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Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Leading Provider of Professional Translation and Interpreting Service Telephone 1890 707 707 Email: translations@wordperfect.ie Word Perfect A4.indd 1

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WORD PERFECT

EVERY TIME In recent years, Ireland has become an increasingly multicultural society with an ever expanding multicultural work force. This small island is home to 9 out of 10 world-leading technology and internet companies; 8 out of 10 leading online game companies and platforms; 8 out of 10 worldleading Pharmaceutical companies; 15 of the top 20 world-leading life science companies and over 50% of the world’s leading Financial Services ﬁrms. A hotbed of entrepreneurship, currently there are over two hundred and fifty thousand non-Irish nationals employed in the Irish economy or 13% of the entire labor force. In a business context there is a huge demand for translation services and the appropriately named Word Perfect Translation Services has experienced unprecedented growth and recognition since its inception in 2001.

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Word Perfect Translation Services Ltd provides linguistic assistance (translating and interpreting) to a vast client base, including courts services, hospitals, An Garda Síochána, the Refugee Legal Service, FÁS, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, the Office of the Refugee Appeals Commissioner, the Probation Services, the Department of Justice, Northern Ireland Regional Supplies Service, Pensions Ombudsman, the Citizens, Information Board, Quinn Direct Insurance and ESB International to name but a few. Nearly all public sector bodies must tender for business and Word Perfect Translations Services Ltd are delighted to have successfully won a vast number of these tenders. “It a 24 hour, 365 day a year company, meaning that we can provide a translator or interpreter at any time day or night all year round,” says Jimmy Gashi, COO. Word Perfect Translation Services is a certified translation provider in accordance with the standards set out in the European Quality standard EN15038:2006. The company was one of the first service providers to achieve EN15038:2006 certification which is the industry standard for translation. It is also an ISO9001-2008 certified company and corporate member of the ITIA (Irish Translators and Interpreters Association). It was amongst the first language service providers in Ireland to implement fully the ISO9001-2008 quality assurance system. “Within the industry, it is estimated that fewer than 5% of firms have this quality system in place,” says Gashi. “This testifies to our commitment not only to maintain the high standards of our services but to continuously strive to improve them.

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS LANGUAGE AND TRANSLATION SERVICES

With a number of prestigious awards to their name (including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist; Emerging Ethnic Entrepreneur of the Year; Young Business Woman of the Year) Gashi is particularly proud of winning the Public Sector Magazine Award for the second year running,”We are proud of our excellent relationship and reputation with the Irish public sector and we will continue to expand our services and exceed expectations for our valued client base.” www.wordperfect.ie

Comhairle Chontae na Mí

Meath County Council County Meath - Ireland’s Heritage Capital

Meath County Council

Meath County Council, County Hall, Navan Tel: (046) 909 7000 Fax: (046) 909 7001 Email: info@meathcoco.ie

Public Sector Magazine

www.meath.ie

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WWW.BOOLEWEB.UCC.IE

DISCOVER, LEARN, INSPIRE... WITH UCC library 1/2.indd 1

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN PROVISION OF SERVICES FOR A DIGITAL LIBRARY

UCC

GO DIGITAL UCC Library are delighted to be awarded the ‘Excellence in the provision of services for a Digital Library’ in the Public Sector magazine ‘Excellence in Business Awards 2014. The award highlights the importance in meeting the information needs of library users in a way and time of their choosing.

Over the last 12 months the library has recorded an increase in satisfaction from library users in the space provided, in the information resources and in how library staff provide these services. In the last year there have been two very successful exhibitions; one in collaboration with the Glucksman Gallery and the School of English and secondly The ‘Facing Pages’ exhibition presenting the original manuscript of ‘The Great Book of Ireland’ currently in care of the Library and now preserved for posterity. Recently the ‘Sir Henrys at UCC Library’ exhibition relating to the Sir Henry’s club in Cork. This has generated enormous interest worldwide via social media. “The value of such a social historical record as an archive cannot be underestimated in the role of libraries in supporting the interests and research of future generations” said McKenna. Going forward the growth and future development of UCC Library will focus on the provision of user-centred services. In keeping with how students, academics and researchers like to work the library aims to provide an increased range of full-text information resources that can be accessed on line. This increases choice to access information ‘anytime, anywhere’. In addition, the information resources acquired by the library meet the highest quality standards – articles and journals are peer reviewed by academics. Teaching literacy skills ensures users have transferable skills that can then be used elsewhere in their personal lives and throughout their careers. The University, as is the Library, is committed to embedding a quality culture. All departments including

Information Services, which includes the Library, are engaged in an on-going process of quality review. A self-assessment report prepared by library staff forms the basis of a programme of meetings and interviews by a panel of internal and external assessors. Such peer review leads to a Quality Improvement Plan being developed, a useful strategic operating tool that helps in managing the service and in delivering a successful improvement and development programme of activities. In managing and leading the Library Service, McKenna takes an open and consultative approach. “It is important that our internal and external stakeholders, and in that I include our Library staff, are fully involved in the process of change and continuous improvement”. She concludes, “I see the future of UCC library in developing further collaborative initiatives with strategic partners and in delivering high quality services to all our user communities as they need and want them. Making content available, whether it be The Great Book of Ireland or papers from our archives through digitisation will enhance our role in supporting researchers worldwide. Educating our users in discovering and using high-quality information remains central to our mission. And most importantly is ensuring our value to future generations in a sustainable and responsible way.” booleweb.ucc.ie

Public Sector Magazine

Colette McKenna, Director of Library Services said, “While our central role remains to provide access to the information required for learning, research and teaching, UCC Library is also engaged, among other things, in the provision of information skills training to students, the preservation of our regional and national documentary heritage, and the provision of physical facilities for intellectual discovery through silent reading, group work and IT based learning. We provide a range of services which enhance the value of our collections and ensure that the University’s considerable investment in library materials is fully exploited to deliver maximum benefit to every sector of the University Community.”

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The Closest

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation

with Direct Access to CIT Accommodation Prices from €49 per week in Academic Year 2014/'15

Public Sector Magazine

• Direct Walkway to CIT • On-Campus Parking • Direct Broadband Internet Connection to CIT • 24 Hour CCTV Security System • City Centre Bus Route • 24 Hour Professional Office Staff

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Model Farm Road, Cork

(021)4545200

Email: studentenqs@parchmentsquarecork.com www.parchmentsquarecork.com

OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

A HOME FROM

HOME

For many students the ﬁrst year at university is the ﬁrst time they live away from home. New friends, managing budgets, cooking, cleaning, laundry, learning to adapt, not to mention academic challenges; it can all be pretty overwhelming. So it is very important to carefully select student accommodation not just from a practical perspective but also for quality of life. Public Sector Magazine

Parchment Square on Model Farm Road in Cork is a fine example of student living at its best. From the architects drawing board to the final fit-out, Parchment Square provides the ultimate home from home environment with every modern convenience. On site facilities include a launderette, 24 hour CCTV security system, free parking and direct access to the Cork Institute of Technology and a 15 minute walk to University College Cork.

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Each custom designed apartment can accommodate three to five people and contain a fully equipped, open plan kitchen and living area, modern bathroom and spacious sleeping accommodation with free broadband in every bedroom. Apartments are contemporary in style to maximise on space and to provide a warm, welcoming feel for students. The proximity of the complex to Cork city provides the advantage of all the city services including restaurants, pubs, cinemas and shops. Parchment Square is also within walking distance of Leisureworld, Cork’s newest sport complex, Riverside 18 hole pitch and putt club, Curraheen river walk, Curraheen Greyhound Racing Stadium and Cork Institute of Technology regional athletics track. Cathal O’Dwyer, General Manager at Parchment Square says that it is all about delivering the perfect setting for learning and development “We have entered an era in which student expectations are high. We want our future graduates not only to be experts in their subject discipline but also to have strong skills, an appreciation of different perspectives, cross-cultural competency and to be good citizens. A sense of security and socialisation is vital in this regard and we provide an environment that is conducive to this development.” Cathal feels that it is also important to offer front and back office support to students and parents alike “our staff are extremely approachable, flexible and willing to assist with all queries. Students can contact us via email, telephone or letter if they need any assistance whatsoever.”

With prices starting at €49.00 Parchment Square not only hits the nail on the head, it is exceptional value for money. Little wonder therefore that occupancy levels are high and the complex has again been selected for excellence in student accommodation. www.parchmentsquarecork.com

Public Sector Magazine

NEWS

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Minister Donohoe with Bord Bia Chairman Michael Carey who will head the Grow Dublin Tourism Alliance and Fáilte Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn

BRAND

DUBLIN

Cohesive brand identity for the capital will attract more tourists, boost job creation and enhance revenue streams

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe announced the establishment of a group to develop a brand identity for Dublin, drive tourism in the capital forward and allow us to compete competitively for market share with other cities across Europe. Set up under Fáilte Ireland, the ‘Grow Dublin Tourism Alliance’ it will be led by the Chairman of Bord Bia, Michael Carey who will be responsible for implementing the Grow Dublin Taskforce strategy set out last year.

Minister Donohoe said; “If a capital city does not fulfil its potential in terms of tourism, that has implications for the rest of the country for the creation of jobs and for the amount of revenue the State takes in. The Wild Atlantic Way has been a huge success for the west of Ireland and with a strategy currently being developed for the SouthEast, it is time to look at Dublin’s performance and put a cohesive strategy in place to ensure the maximum performance of our capital city.” “Dublin has so much to offer and by harnessing the skills of all relevant stakeholders,

as well as that of Dubliners themselves, we can send a strong message to the rest of the world that Dublin is top of the list in terms of global city destinations.” Head of the Grow Dublin Tourism Alliance, Michael Carey, said: “This is an opportunity to establish an appropriate source of funds and to allocate it in a way that will change how Dublin is perceived and experienced by visitors. By getting the right group together to guide this process, providing a new focus on Dublin, I believe we can get extraordinary results.”

NEWS

IN BUDGET 2015 Budget 2015 gives much needed assurance of continued job creation with retention of VAT at 9%. Pro-tourism Budget Measures will support creation of thousands of new jobs.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) praised the Government’s decision to retain the 9% VAT rate on tourism services in the Budget 2015 announcements. Adrian Cummins, Chief Executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said that “In our PreBudget Submission we set out objectives that we wanted met, namely the retention of VAT at 9% into 2015 which has been guaranteed. VAT at 9% into 2015 is crucial, not only to the sustainability of restaurants and businesses in the tourism sector but also to job creation and re-growth for our economy.” As outlined by Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, in the Budget 2015 announcements, “this initiative is delivering”. The success of the lower rate of VAT is evident in the 34,052 new jobs that have been created since its introduction in 2011 and in the savings to the Exchequer of €699.72 million in the past three years. “This is the correct decision by the Government; it keeps Irish tourism competitive, attracts overseas visitors and most importantly allows for the creation of a further 50,000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector in the upcoming years” says Adrian Cummins.

President of the Association and restaurateur Pádraic Óg Gallagher, says that “The Government have seized an opportunity to build on momentum gained through increased tourism numbers from the year of the Gathering. We’re delighted that the Government have seen the positive effect that the 9% VAT rate has had on our industry and we will continue to build on this tourism growth in 2015.” The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) also welcomed the retention of the 9% tourism VAT rate. Stephen McNally, President of the IHF hailed the measure as one of the most successful job creation initiatives in modern times. “Today’s budget is very positive for the many thousands of tourism businesses throughout the country and is an important recognition of the potential of Irish tourism to continue delivering much-needed jobs growth,” says Mr McNally. “Thanks to a number of pro-tourism initiatives, the industry is on course to create a further 40,000 jobs by the end of the decade. The 9% VAT rate, in particular, is of enormous importance to the industry, helping to level the playing field for tourism businesses when competing with international destinations for visitors. This will continue to have benefits for the local economy, particularly in rural regions.” According to recent industry research carried

Public Sector Magazine

TOURISM SECTOR WELCOMES VAT RETENTION

149 by the IHF, the overwhelming majority (98%) of hotels and guesthouses say the 9% tourism VAT rate is having a positive impact on their business, enabling almost three quarters (73%) to hire additional new staff over the past 12 months alone. Tourism as a whole now supports some 200,000 jobs - equivalent to one in every nine jobs in the country. Mr McNally welcomed the Government’s commitment to capital investment in projects such as the Dubline Heritage Trail, the Kilkenny Medieval Mile and Killarney House. He also welcomed the commitment to progress work on the Wild Atlantic Way, the new South and East branding proposition and the Grow Dublin Alliance – initiatives which give visitors new and compelling reasons to visit Ireland. He further acknowledged the important support provided by Ministers Michael Noonan and Brendan Howlin and by tourism Ministers Paschal Donohoe and Michael Ring in ensuring tourism remains at the heart of the Government’s economic policy and in recognising the valuable role played by tourism in growing the Irish economy and generating increased employment.

NEWS IMF PAYMENTS AHEAD

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As Minister Noonan preparing for the next phase of repaying IMF, Ireland plans to repay approximately €18.3 billion of IMF loans ahead of schedule.

Speaking after the decision of the Swedish Parliament to waive the mandatory proportional early repayment clause, Minister Noonan stated:

Sweden has formally agreed to a waiver of the mandatory proportional early repayment clauses of its loans to Ireland. This decision follows similar agreements from UK and Denmark and political agreement from all 28 EU Member States. This now allows Ireland to request formal approval from the EFSF and EFSM for a waiver on the first tranche of early repayments.

“I welcome the Swedish Parliament’s decision to agree to the waiver for Ireland’s proposed repayment of a portion of its IMF loan and the confirmation by the Swedish Government that was provided today. We have already received confirmation of waivers from the UK and Denmark. Our EU and bilateral lenders have been very supportive of the government’s objective of improving

HONOURED AS WOMAN OF THE YEAR

JOAN BURTON

Tánaiste Joan Burton was named the Irish Tatler Woman of the Year at the 14th annual Woman of the Year Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel. The Tánaiste has played a key role in Irish politics since 1992 as well as being the first woman in Ireland to become a qualified chartered accountant, the first female finance spokesperson of a major Irish political party and the first person to be elected to the 31st Dáil. Others honoured on the night were Philomena Lee, inspiration for the recent movie ‘Philomena’ starring Judi Dench and Steve Coogan and inspiring Cork youngster Joanne O’Riordan.

Ireland’s debt sustainability since I discussed this issue with them in early September.” Significant progress has been made on this project since agreement in principle was secured at the informal Ecofin in Milan in September to replace expensive IMF loans with cheaper, low cost market funding. “There are real and tangible benefits to Ireland from this transaction and I would like to take the opportunity to thank Sweden for their continued support for Ireland” Minister Noonan said.

NEWS

DINGLE IS A TOP FOODIE TOWN Anybody who has visited this Kerry gem will know that Dingle is a special place. Now Dingle has been crowned Top Foodie Town of Ireland 2014 at the Irish Restaurant Awards. The ‘Foodie Town of Ireland’ award recognised Dingle for actively promoting itself through joint activities such as food festivals, gourmet trails and farmers’ markets as well as great dining experiences. The town was seen to go above and beyond to give their tourists the best foodie experience. They have a well-established local producer/ supplier network which is utilised and promoted by local businesses and an active plan for future growth and investment in the food and hospitality industry.

FOOD

The Irish Restaurant Awards are the largest and most coveted awards in the Irish Restaurant Industry. The Awards recognise achievement and excellence in the Restaurant and Hospitality Industry throughout the 32 counties of the Island of Ireland in 25 categories and celebrate all aspects of the Industry from Chefs and Restaurants, Cafes and Gastro Pubs, to Food Producers, Restaurant Managers and Cookery Schools. Award nominations are made by readers of the Sunday Independent LIFE Magazine and members of the Restaurants Association of Ireland with the nomination & awards selection process audited by Ernst & Young. This year Kilkenny Restaurant Campagne took home the prize of Best Restaurant in Ireland and Neven Maguire, Head Chef of MacNean House and Restaurant, was crowned Best Chef in Ireland. Over 900 restaurateurs and industry players turned out to attend the biggest ever Restaurant awards where Regional and All-Ireland winners were announced. Pádraic Óg Gallagher, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland said “Ireland has so much to offer to the culinary tourist, and these Awards remind everyone of the quality and class of Irish restaurants and Chefs. The Irish restaurant scene is vital to the economy, employing 64,000 people and generating revenue in excess of €2 billion per year, it’s great to celebrate the work that all of our restaurateurs around the country do to keep this aspect of our culture alive and kicking.”

CATEGORIES; Best Restaurant in Ireland Campagne Best Chef in Ireland Neven Maguire of MacNean House & Restaurant Best Hotel Restaurant in Ireland The Lady Helen @ Mount Juliet Best Casual Dining in Ireland ETTO Best Gastro Pub in Ireland The Chop House Best Wine Experience in Ireland Fallon & Byrne Best Customer Service in Ireland Renvyle House Hotel Best Cookery School in Ireland Ballymaloe Cookery School Best Practice in Energy Management in Ireland The Ocean Restaurant at The Maritime Hotel Sustainable Restaurant of the Year in Ireland West @ The Twelve Best Value Dining in Ireland Fenton’s of Dingle

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1) EV Compare- Ireland’s Hybrid & Electric Vehicle website was set up in 2010. Since then we have established ourselves as the no. 1 portal for news and information on Hybrid and Electric Transport in Ireland. In the past 12 months we have seen a significant increase in our website traffic, partly due to organic searches on Electric and Hybrid Vehicles as the public become more curious to the possibility of owning an electric car and also due to an increase in returning visitors who want to keep up with relevant news stories .

Public Sector Magazine

2) Our principle focus for our business at present is to increase our website traffic and our social media presence through our face book page and twitter feed @evcompare. We will shortly offer a range of related links and services such as EV and Hybrid Dealers, EV Service centres, and offer EV and Hybrid sales through our related sites registered under EV Compare. We feel because Electric car ownership is a giant leap for consumers to make and requires a change in a drivers behaviour, that a specific hub for news, information and related services to cater for this specialist sector is needed.

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3) Because our principle business at present is based on providing relevant news and information on Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in Ireland, we are very conscious of only publishing factual information from reliable sources. We own all our images and endeavour to provide original and interesting news stories as they happen to maintain a fresh and interesting feel to our website. 4) Management is a tricky thing, I feel it can be broken into two catagories, the core day-to-day business management and people/staff management. Unless you are good at both your organisation will struggle, there-for delegation is essential. I try to delegate duties according to strenghts in both myself and each individual. This encourages responsibility and accountability and also identifies weaknesses, whether it’s in the system or individual. 5) As mentioned previously, we believe in delegating duties according to the strenghts of each individual. This increases productivity and also creates a more structured work environment for staff members. I feel it’s essential to adopt a carrot and not a stick approach, this can be through goal rewards or clear promotion prospects, turning up for work and “punching in a day” is not constructive in any organisation and unless there are incentives to preform , so much energy and resources can be wasted keeping staff on course. 6) Our medium-term goals for our business is to continue growing our web presence and increasing our S.E.O through search engines such as Google and Bing etc. As we approach our emission targets for 2020 we expect to see an increasing amount of organic website traffic as the public and businesses are searching for information and news on Hybrid and Electric options available to them. In turn we aim to offer advertising opportunities to related industry who want to target this specific audience. Our long-term ambition is to have EV Compare firmly established as Ireland’s Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Website and the first choice for news , information and related services for electric transport in Ireland. @evcompare pages/Ev-compare-Irelands-Electric-Vehicle-website

OUTRIGHT WINNERS INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS

EV COMPARES In Ireland and indeed Europe, electric transport is a relatively new concept for motorists with range and cost still the main issues for early adopters. To cut through a lot of the confusion and provide up to the minute information on the many options, EV Compare is a hybrid and electric vehicle website offering a wealth of information on this topical subject. Established in 2010 the site has become the No. 1 portal for news and information on hybrid and electric transportation in Ireland. Public Sector Magazine

Brendan Mulligan heads the team and tells us that his principle focus at present is to increase website traffic and social media presence through Facebook and twitter feeds. The website will shortly offer a range of related links and services such as EV and hybrid dealers, EV service centres and offer EV and hybrid sales through related sites registered under EV Compare. “We feel because electric car ownership is a giant leap for consumers to make and requires a change in driver behavior, a specific hub for news, information and related services is needed for Ireland.”

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Since the principle business at present is based on providing relevant news and information, EV Compare are careful to only publish factual information from reliable sources. “We own all our images and endeavor to provide original and interesting news stories as they happen to maintain a fresh and interesting feel to our site” said Brendan. With web traffic increasing rapidly Brendan is mindful of increasing SEO (search engine optimization) using Google, Bing, Webmaster and every possible social media outlet. This will be particularly relevant in the next few years “as we approach our emission targets for 2020, we expect to see an increasing amount of organic website traffic as the public and businesses are searching for information and news on hybrid and electric options available. In turn we aim to offer advertising opportunities to related industry who want to target this specific audience. Our long-term ambition is to have EV Compare firmly established as Ireland’s primary hybrid & electric vehicle website and the first choice for news, information and related services. Despite his business being electronically based, Brendan recognises the importance of people management. “Management is a tricky thing; I feel it can be broken into two catagories, the core day-to-day business management and people/staff management. Unless you are good at handling both your organisation will struggle, therefore delegation is essential. When it comes to staff, I feel it’s essential to adopt a carrot and not a stick approach, this can be through goal rewards or promotion prospects. The idea of turning up for work and “punching in

a day” is not constructive and unless there are incentives to preform, so much energy and resources can be wasted keeping staff on course. “ An enlightened approach to staff management and a determination to deliver up to the minute news and information on EV’s, Hybrids and alternative vehicles will keep EV Compare at the top of their game. Brendan concludes, “We are delighted to accept the Public Sector Magazine Award for Intelligent Solutions. It recognises the hard work and commitment in pursuing a venture in a sector still in relative infancy, but growing at a phenomenal rate. www.evcompare.ie

Innovation in fuel technologies

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as featured on

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Ultimate Cell

OZONE CARS Ltd Unit E1, Bluebell Business Park Old Naas Road Dublin 12

Tel, web & email 01 902 3020 083 171 2999 info@ultimatecell.ie

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FUEL TECHNOLOGY

INNOVATION Hydrogen and alternative fuels are an environmental and financial breakthrough for motoring and transport fleet operators seeking sustainability and higher efficiencies. In this arena Ozone Cars are at the top of their game and worthy winners of the Public Sector magazine award for eco-vehicles, adaptions and fuel optimisation. Embracing innovation, Ozone Cars & Cabs Ltd first brought Dublin the ‘eCab’ - now also available in Waterford and Galway Cities with growing driver waiting-lists. eCab’s are eco-friendly taxis running on a combination of ‘four’ fuels. Using Ozone’s skills and technologies the company created a worlds’ first. Their engines simultaneously run on a mix of LPG gas, EV Hybrid, Hydrogen and Petrol (the latter being avoided due to environmental and cost issues). This technology can, and has, been simply applied to any Public Sector, business fleet or individual’s vehicle. As reported in national press over the summer, their Prius converted cars can go from Dublin to Galway for €7 fuel. Tested significantly, they have now circumnavigated the planet over 80 times last year – a testament to the reliability of this technology. A leading insurer has also provided up to €1m indemnity overriding potential warranty concerns as the product carries CE standards and the E-Mark. Available nationwide the UltimateCell, distributed by Ozone Cars, is a European and Irish designed Hydrogen-Fuel-Cell generator used in the 2014 Award winning cars. Simply and easily fitted into any engine-bay, it generates hydrogen which is added to the engine. This results in a cleaner and more complete burn of the existing fuel, extracting more energy from the petrol, diesel or LPG used. EURONEWS picked up on the story over the summer period resulting in 52 countries signing for distribution in three months. Manufacturers have also taken a very keen interest. Reductions in fuel consumption are reported as high as 20% with all fuels using just the Fuel Cellsome achieve 30%. Emission reductions are as high as 80% even in HGV’s. This is great news for business, fleet managers and those with an interest in reducing costs, their carbon footprint and meeting stringent 2020 targets. “Modern vehicles are struggling to process carbon within engines and high maintenance costs such as EGR, DPF and catalytic converters are extremely costly to replace”, states Frank Rock, Sales Director. The UltimateCell generator is cost effective at just €390 plus vat. It significantly reduces the carbon causing these engine and environmental problems.

Ozone’s UltimateCell was of huge interest at the SEAI Energy Show 2014 and at the National Ploughing Championships. Simulated on a range of cars old and new, vans, 4x4’s, a tractor and even a boattheir UltimateCell technology raised eyebrows, interests and orders. Ozone Cars use the slogan “Half Price Motoring” when advertising taxi-rentals. The EPA forecast Ireland will exceed its CO2 allowance limits before 2016. Ireland ‘is’ contributing to Climate Change by failing to meet targets and we will have to purchase Carbon Credits costing the Exchequer. The use of the UltimateCell alone and if combined with alternative fuels like LPG gas for transport, will minimise fuel use and the imports of traditional fossil fuels. It’s a win-win all round and the Public Sector magazine are delighted to recognise this incredible innovation. “The Award is a significant tool that we shall use when speaking to business fleet managers and those in the public sector who strive to reduce transport budgets and emissions” said Frank Rock. UltimateCell certainly appears to be the way forward for cost cutting and a cleaner environment. www.UltimateCell.ie and www.OzoneCars.ie

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Sound Decision

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CYGNUS TAXI METERS KEYS KEY REPAIR, IMMOBILISER KEY CLONING KEYS CUT FROM CODE LIGHTS

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RADIOS SPEAKERS VEHICLE SECURITY HANDS FREE KITS PARKING SENSORS & CAMERA SYSTEMS

www.sounddecision.ie

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SOUND DECISIONS

Motor technology is in the midst of the most profound transformation in the past 100 years and that change is only accelerating. At the same time an entire raft of electronic devices have become available, some integrated into the modern vehicle or many that can be installed thereafter. Not just fun to use, electronic devices can be time and even life saving so their popularity is enormous. Carl Byrne, owner of Sound Decisions in Clondalkin has seen a huge increase in interest in intelligent transport technology with everything from auto electronics, iPhone integration, Bluetooth systems, security systems, vehicle tracking, parking sensors, vehicle warning lights and CCTV to diagnostic and repair of integrated systems.

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT

Carl has extensive experience in the industry and with a technical background himself; he is well placed to embrace constantly changing technology. “As an auto electrician I like to think I’ve experienced all kinds of problems and repairs. We are always adding to our skills and experience working on high end and high spec cars from our important trade customers using all the latest diagnostic equipment available.”

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His company has doubled in size over the last 12 months and secured the Cygnus taxi meter franchise – a significant inroad into a valuable public service. As much of the work required is quite specialized, the team at Sound Decisions include mechanics, locksmiths and electricians with many years experience and all work upon completion is inspected by Carl who takes a very hands on approach in his business “we have a great team and a great work atmosphere and everyone works really well together” he says. Regular training in this field is particularly important and all staff are continuously upskilled to ensure that they are up to date with ever changing technology. For all the complexity of the modern vehicle a particularly busy aspect of the business is key replacement. “Technology is always changing so we must always stay ahead of the game no matter how big or small the job. We have for example expanded the car key side of the business with a full time locksmith on the road so we can provide a key or spare key to unlock your car any time. I see this as one aspect that we can grow over the next few years and we have invested alot in the latest diagnostic machinery and car key programmers.” While commercial work is a key focus there is a steady repeat business from local and from the trade. “When people come back you know you have been doing something right and that gives us all a great boost” said Carl. He is particularly delighted at winning the Public Sector magazine award as

this also confirms independent accreditation and the recognition of a job well done in an important sector for the company. Carl is enthusiastic about the future looking at the possibility of a second branch to service the north side of the city and to expand the trade side of the business. He has ambitious plans to again double his workforce and to continuously expanded his knowledge base and services. A positive and proactive atmosphere prevails at Sound Decisions which perhaps attributes for their rapid success. “Hopefully we’re on the road to prosperity” he says. www.sounddecision.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS CIVIL ENGINEERING PROJECTS

HERNON STONE WORKS With an unblemished safety record, an enviable reputation for quality workmanship and an impressive portfolio of completed projects, Galway based company Hernon Stoneworks is a company intent on providing complete satisfaction to its clients. A civil engineering company based in Lettermore, County Galway, Hernon Stone Works Ltd was first established in 1965. The company places a strong emphasis on quality work, safety and client satisfaction and specialise in pier building, pier restoration, ground works and the repair and restoration of natural stone walls. It also builds new masonry structures.

Public Sector Magazine

Hernon Stone Works is committed to high levels of quality, safety and environmental performance and is extremely proud of its accident free record. The company are members of the Construction Industry Federation and certified to ISO9001 and ISO14001 and OHSAS18001. Hernon Stone Works Ltd., Lettercallow, Lettermore, County Galway. 091 598 080

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HERNON STONE WORKS LIMITED, CIVIL ENGINEERING Letter Callow, Lettermore Co Galway

Ph/Fax: 091 598080 Mob: 087-7859071 Involves conservation repair and restoration of natural stone buildings, as well as the construction of new masonry structures. • Upgrading of piers • Concrete • Wall capping

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The 2015 Irish Building & Design Awards have been launched. Now in their 6th year, the awards, recognised by the building and design communities as the Gold Standard awards event of the year, have been launched by CMG Events, Ireland’s leading business conference and awards specialists.

he Irish Building & Design awards is firmly established as the pinnacle of award ceremonies for the construction sector and is a highly coveted trophy for Ireland’s professionals and executives in the architectural, engineering and building communities. The reason for the high standing of these awards has been the full endorsement and commitment of the major associations and organisations within the building and design sectors who have been involved with the judging process. The event typically enjoys the judging support of; Engineers Ireland (EI), The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), The Irish Home Builders Association (IHBA), The Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) and Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT), as well as leading industry commentators and experts. Winners and finalists are aware that the entries receive a high degree of scrutiny and review, and are carefully considered and debated by the judging panel. This is what gives tremendous value to award winners and finalists. The Building & Design Awards has seen significant year-on-year growth in applications over the past five years and the standard of applications is growing every year. The 2014 ceremony had 18 award winners and the evening was considered a fantastic success by over 300 industry professionals who attended, with lots of industry banter and plenty of networking opportunities on the night.

Winner of the Irish Building Project of the Year: The Medieval Museum, Waterford - Waterford City Council

Commenting on the 2015 awards launch, Tony Cantwell, who is Managing Director of the CMG Group, said “CMG has been actively involved in providing business information and networking services to the building and design sectors for over 20 years and I am particularly delighted to have the Irish Building & Design Awards involved in promoting the very best Ireland has to offer, at home and internationally.” “The value of winning an Irish Building & Design Award cannot be underestimated. To be shortlisted for such a prestigious event is a great achievement and is a calling card for future business development, as it separates you from your competition and elevates your brand, your company or professional practice to another level. Because you have been

Architectural Project of the Year Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Building, NUI Galway Reddy Architectural + Urbanism

judged by your peers in the Irish Building & Design sector, the value of the award is very special and unique in the Irish marketplace.” “On top of that, we enjoy the fantastic support of some of Irelands leading companies and brands in the building and design sectors as sponsors of the event, and they report that this is - by far - the best awards ceremony of its kind in the country and are delighted to be associated with it and its success.” You can now view the 2015 Irish Building & Design Awards categories online at www.irishbuildinganddesignawards.com. For information on putting your application together, important dates and deadlines, please contact debbie@irishbuildinganddesignawards.com

Retrofitting Project of the Year: Claregalway Post Primary School - Stewart

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BUILDING ON

SUCCESS The Celtic Tiger’s rapid demise left almost an entire nation of construction professionals unemployed. Left with diﬃcult choices, three friends turned their back on emigration and decided instead to establish Cairn Construction in 2010.

“To say that the last few years were difficult would be a serious understatement but we survived and hopefully things are returning to something close to normal” explains Director Cathal Fanning. “Large infrastructure projects like the Luas cross city and smaller projects like Dublin Bikes are a vote of confidence in Dublin; they also create good employment and deliver a great asset for the city. I believe that more projects like these will come on stream and this, coupled with the upgrading of the water networks and the ending of the six year house building moratorium will mean that better days lie ahead for the construction industry.” For Cairn Construction better days are well underway with an extremely busy 2014. The company recently completed all civil engineering and reinstatement works associated with the Dublin Bikes expansion scheme amounting to almost 60 new stations in prominent high impact locations throughout Dublin. There were many challenges, not least traffic management issues but perhaps the most challenging and satisfying caveat was Dublin City Council’s insistence that the new bike stations should assimilate seamlessly with their environment. Cairn Construction took great care to achieve this goal and you only have to look around the city to see that the expansion project has been a tremendous success in terms of construction and aesthetics. An insistence on quality and adhering to quality standards is something that Cairn takes very seriously which no doubt has a huge impact on the end result. “From a quality perspective, the Dublin Bikes project was a joy to work on” Cathal says. “The design was aesthetically sound, Dublin City Council’s choice of natural stone finish were high quality, so all we had to really manage was the workmanship. ”Cairn Construction employs a team of highly skilled experienced construction operatives and masons capable of carrying out 90% of works in house with sub contractors only used for specialist jobs. A collaborative work ethos is key to success and hugely important to Cathal and his team. ”In Cairn

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Construction, we’re fortunate that the founders of the company have individually quite different skills. I have a background in accounting so the administration is left to me. My colleague Myles is a Project Manager and deals with tendering and clients while Haxhi is an experienced foreman who organises and manages the crews. The system works well.” With such a successful public project under their belt and a positive, optimistic attitude, the ambitions for this company are clear. “We aim to win more high quality civil engineering contracts within Dublin City which we will deliver to the highest standards. We would particularly like to thank Dublin City Council and JCDecaux Ltd for awarding us the Dublin Bike contract. We appreciate the opportunity and their confidence in us and we look forward to the next expansion of the most popular public bike scheme on the planet! www.cairn.ie

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WINDOWS & DOORS

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GROUND BREAKING U-VALUES FROM AS LOW AS 0.47W/M²K REGISTERED FIRM

QUA L I T Y S Y S T E M

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PEFC/17-36-027

BaLLydesmond, co. cork, IreLand.

T. 064 7751151 F. 064 7751312 e. info@munsterjoinery.ie W. www.munsterjoinery.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS ENERGY EFFICIENT WINDOWS & DOORS

MUNSTER JOINERY Munster Joinery is a leading international manufacturer of energy eﬃcient windows and doors in uPVC, aluminium, timber and aluclad. The company holds the highest number of passive house window certiﬁcations of any window company globally.

Public Sector Magazine

Munster Joinery are performing particularly well at the moment validating a policy of adapting to changing market conditions and developing products and processes to satisfy different needs. The success of this forward thinking strategy is borne out this year with a nomination for the Green Awards 2014, the additional Passiv Haus certifications gained by their newest products and with the Public Sector magazine award for energy efficient windows and doors.

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As with every business the financial crisis had a huge impact on the energy sector, however, this was one area where the market quickly came to the realisation that the management of energy costs was a vital ingredient in the recipe for recovery. Irresponsible energy use is no longer economically or environmentally viable and Munster Joinery is ideally positioned to optimise the energy efficiency of their product ranges. “We identified the Passiv Haus philosophy as the most important movement in the construction sector and we set out to develop products to meet this demanding standard which requires buildings to achieve indoor comfort without the use of a heating system” said Marlene O’Mahony, Quality Manager. “There has to be a complete revolution in the way we think about energy usage. The homes we live in, the offices and factories we work in, the schools and hospitals we use will have to become self-sufficient in energy terms. Alternative energy sources which now seem marginal will be developed to full potential and integrated into national systems. Marlene explains that the construction industry in Ireland was slow to face up to the energy efficiency, sustainability challenge. Thankfully she has seen a dramatic sea change in attitudes over the past ten years and the industry is now set to meet the challenge. For Marlene O’Mahony and her team it is important to take a hands-on approach and manage every aspect of an installation no matter how large or small. “We have a policy of controlling all critical processes which allows us to commit to pro-

viding reliable products, lead times and after sales service. We manufacture our own glazing units, we have our own uPVC profile extrusion factory and a computer controlled kiln drying facility ensures an efficient quality timber supply.” Not surprisingly the company operates an approved Quality System and the word Quality is synonymous with Ireland’s top joinery provider, Munster Joinery. www.munsterjoinery.ie

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS BUILDING MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

MASTERS OF ALL

THEY SURVEY McGahon Surveyors (MGS) are an award winning Professional Quantity Surveying practice. Their continued growth in the Republic of Ireland is evidenced by the many prestigious appointments secured from public sector clients.

MGS are a proactive practice when it comes to expertise in the Construction industry. The company promotes itself as a hub for innovation in quantity surveying with a strong focus on new markets. One such market is Building Information Modelling (BIM). MGS in conjunction with the ASPIRE graduate development programme have received funding for a graduate to develop a niche within the company and indeed the Quantity Surveying profession to provide consultancy in BIM and act as Information Managers in the BIM process. MGS are also working closely with Southern Regional College in developing this expertise. With the drive by the British Government towards Level 2 BIM by 2016, which will likely be replicated within the republic of Ireland in the future; now is the time to gain a competitive advantage in this field. Joe Beggs Director feels that it is hugely important to work to a high quality standard and to this end the company operate ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management system “Quality control is at the core of our work and this is clearly evidenced by the repeat business MGS secure from their many clients both in the public and private sector” he said. “With the adoption of the principles of BIM a more collaborative approach in the delivering of the full design team service can be achieved. MGS promote collaboration in all facets of their interaction with clients and other Design team Members.” Quality carries through every aspect of their work and MGS actively encourage each staff member to work towards the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). This involves a 24 month programme of structured training working towards the final APC assessment at which time the individual is in a position to go forward to become a Chartered Quantity Surveyor. If successful the candidate becomes a Chartered member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and/or Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). MGS has

the distinction of a 100% pass rate for probationer members of SCSI sitting their APC and passing first time to become Chartered members of SCSI and RICS. “For our more experienced members of staff we promote continual professional development in accordance with the rules of the SCSI/RICS. As a company, MGS also promote further education in new fields of expertise to allow the company to offer new services” said Beggs. Going forward the company aim to mirror their strong reputation in southern Ireland north of the border and throughout the UK. “With our young and forward thinking workforce it is expected that the drive towards expansion will yield a very successful and sustainable Quantity Surveying consultancy for the future.” Beggs concludes, ”In the coming years MGS’ aim is to further enhance the services offered and diversify into new markets and areas of expertise offering clients a dedicated and ‘second to none’ service.” www.mcgahonsurveyors.com

Public Sector Magazine

More recently MGS has established a presence in the UK through the establishment of a Newry office. Although only 20 miles from their headquarters in Dundalk, the Newry location has opened up new opportunities into the UK market. MGS also work closely with a partnering practice in Leeds and have secured work on several prestigious projects in the UK. They particularly made their mark in Northern Ireland by obtaining a place on a number of public sector frameworks (e.g. Housing Framework for Accord Procurement Group).

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NISO Awards: Supreme Safety Award Winners 2005; Gold Award 2006 & 2007; Civil Engineering Award 2013 Q-Mark Quality Awards: Best New Entry 2008; National Winner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Quality Management Systems Level 2, 2012.

Roadbridge A4.indd 1

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BUILDING BRIDGES Founded in 1967 and operating in Ireland, United Kingdom, Poland, South Paciﬁc and the Middle East, Roadbridge is a leader in Civil Engineering. Public Sector Magazine

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS INNOVATIVE INFRASTRUCTURE IN ENGINEERING

Roadbridge has the experience, capability and a proven track record in delivering major projects across a range of sectors on time and on budget. The company has completed major projects for clients in the transport, renewables and energy, utilities, commercial, industrial, waste management and leisure sectors. With a core ethos not just to meet client expectations but to exceed them, Roadbridge is the partner of choice for public sector companies and a worthy recipient of the Public Sector magazine award for Innovative Infrastructure in Engineering.

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Managing Director Conor Gilligan says “We have adopted a team approach and focus on value engineering and innovation in order to achieve best results. Our client base is ever expanding. We currently operate extensively in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Qatar and New Caledonia in the South Pacific. We work for many of the world’s major blue chip companies and we hope to develop this further in the future. We pride ourselves on maintaining strong customer relationships and ensuring client and end-user satisfaction.” Roadbridge is a fully Irish owned self-performing civil engineering contractor. They offer clients a proven quality management approach that consistently delivers on time and within budget – something that was recognised at the annual Q Mark awards recently with an award for “ Best Company in Ireland for Quality Management Systems” . “Our core staff has been with the company for over 30 years and we still operate the largest fleet of heavy plant in the country” explains Conor. “The Public Sector has been an integral part of our business since our foundation in 1967. Since then we have worked in every county in Ireland and provided a significant share of the nation’s infrastructure with successful projects in water, sewage, gas, energy, waste and motorway infrastructure.”

accept this latest award and he attributes it to the dedicated staff, an excellent work ethos and to never compromising on quality. He concludes, “On behalf of Roadbridge we are delighted to receive the Public Sector Journal 2014 Award. Awards such as the Public Sector Award enhance our image with both the public and our clients. Having our hard work recognised by outside bodies helps the profile of our company as we operate on a global scale.”

On behalf of Roadbridge, Conor is delighted to

www.roadbridge.ie

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Lock+Load Ireland, Gillespie Readymix Ltd., Crolly, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal Tel: 074 95 48253 | Email: gillespiereadymix@eircom.net

OUTRIGHT WINNERS LOCK+LOAD RETAINING WALL SYSTEM

NO STONE

UNTURNED

Gillespie Quarries is an established family run business providing stone products in Ireland for over twenty ﬁve years. The company supply and deliver natural stone products throughout Ireland and also supply concrete products and manufacture a waste water treatment system called biotank.ie.

Public Sector Magazine

Specialising in Donegal cut stone sourced from local quarries in the Donegal Gaeltacht, Gillespie Quarries continue to maintain a high standard product and an excellent reputation for customer service and customer satisfaction. Thousands of years in the making Donegal Cut Stone is ideal for cladding of homes, offices, public works, bridges, piers, pavements and restoration work with a wide range of cut stone available, from brown and grey Donegal quartz to Sandstone, black limestone and granite. Stone is cut and dressed at a manufacturing plant in the village of Crolly, Co Donegal and delivered and fit by expert staff. The company are exclusive distributors of LOCK+LOAD, a retaining wall system that is easy to install while providing a superior appearance and performance. The LOCK+LOAD components can be installed by hand keeping the construction costs to a minimum. Simply LOCK the components together and LOAD with soil to construct attractive retaining walls. The installation of LOCK+LOAD retaining walls is not unlike laying bricks in a bed of mortar. The soil backfill acts as mortar for LOCK+LOAD walls, where the panel and counterfort behave like the brick. As each row is placed the soil backfill is used to grade and level each self supporting panel so that it is plumb, on line and at the correct elevation. The row of panels is then backfilled, compacted and the process is repeated until the finished wall height is reached. No specialist equipment or skills required and for a superior appearance and performance the system has very low installation costs – ideal for public sector work country wide. Acknowledging the public sector magazine award for LOCK+LOAD system, Ciaran Gillespie, Managing Director said, “We at Gillespie Quarries are delighted to be chosen for the public sector award, we have been introducing our new range of products to the Irish market and feel that this award will help promote our products further. As our company has diversified into different products over the years we aim to target a larger client base through out the whole of the Irish market and the public sector is a big part of this market.”

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A proven system, used in over 20 countries worldwide Gillespie says that the company’s aim is “ to supply the LOCK+LOAD retaining wall system throughout the island of Ireland and in the UK” where he feels that the product can make real time and cost savings on public projects. This is particularly relevant today where county councils and government developments are expected to reach a high level finish but on reduced budget. Gillespie concludes, “In this regard the LOCK+LOAD system will come in considerably lower than most alternatives and at the same time deliver a superior and sustainable product.” www.gillespiereadymix.com

Radon Aware Group is a company committed to supplying architects with a comprehensive Radon protection service. With years of experience in testing the safety of existing buildings and advising on remedial works, Radon Aware Group are happy to announce a new service developed to ensure architectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; designs are certified as Radon protected pre-construction.

Public Sector Magazine

RADON IS A NATURALLY OCCURRING RADIOACTIVE GAS.

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It enters buildings from the underlying soil and in certain cases can accumulate in a building to such a concentration that it is deemed to constitute a potential health hazard. Radon is a carcinogenic and is deemed to be a risk factor for lung cancer in particular. The National Reference Level (NRL) for long-term exposure to Radon in Dwellings is 200Bq/m3, while in workplaces it is 400Bq/m3. Above this level the need for remedial action should be considered. In any new-build project, it is the architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility to specify an appropriate radon barrier and ensure it has been installed effectively. Prior to pouring the concrete floor slab however, there has been no method for checking the barrier for leaks.

ACCREDITED RADON TESTING & REMEDIATION SERVICE

Radon Aware Group is unique in being able to offer a new service which allows architects and builders to test the integrity of their Radon protection system before committing to costly concrete pours. Testing is carried out by pressurising a dye through the sump at a constant flow rate of between 80-100 pascals thereby making any leaks or openings visible. This test has been recommended by Radon membrane suppliers as the only sure method for checking the integrity of the barrier. It provides assurance to the architect to certify the building as having met building regulations. Each test also comes with pictorial documentation and a final report for the client to keep on file. It is recommended that the architect includes the barrier check test as part of the tender package in order for the builder to price accordingly. Radon Aware Group have previously been employed by Health Service providers, Local Authorities and numerous schools in order to ensure the integrity of their building stock. Radon Aware Group is fully covered by comprehensive Professional Indemnity, Public, Product and Employers Liability Insurance.

BOOK A TEST ON 086 233 1116 WWW.RADONAWAREGROUP.IE

OUTRIGHT WINNERS RADON TESTING SERVICES

THE SILENT

KILLER

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed in the ground by the radioactive decay of uranium which is present in all rocks and soils. It is the greatest source of exposure to radiation for the general public and the second greatest cause of lung cancer in Ireland. Exposure to radon accounts for approximately 13% of all lung cancers in Ireland which equates to some 250 lung cancer cases each year.

Public Sector Magazine

Recognising the scale of the radon problem in Ireland the Radon Aware Group is committed to working towards creating a healthy home and workplace supplying radon detectors and a consultation service for advice, reports, remedy and equipment to solving radon problems and preventing it on new builds. The Group has most notably been involved in an extensive radon testing and remediation program for the HSE South & HSE Midwest. Included in the program were numerous hospitals and long term stay institutions where further testing and remediation will continue into 2015. On the domestic front Radon Aware Group recently completed a remediation program on 83 houses for Galway City Council and were involved in numerous new build projects. For the University of Limerick an inspection of radon barriers was carried out using an integrity test developed by Radon Aware Group to identify leakage in the radon barrier before the contractor poured the concrete. This test now helps architects & engineers comply with the recent changes in building legislation and a certificate is given at the end of the test to show the results.

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In the immediate term the primary focus of the company is on collaboration with the Health Service Executive nationwide and all councils in Ireland. Manager Tony McLoughlin feels that it is equally important to encourage greater testing & remediation in private homes, “We feel that our Radon Barrier Integrity Test will grow in popularity for inspection due to the demand from the building sector to give reassurance that the barrier has been installed to a high level of workmanship” . Taking a very hands on approach McLoughlin explains that all testing is carried out by accredited or validated laboratories with the placement, collection & recording of data and reports undertaken by McLoughlin himself to ensure all data is correct. “When we do remediation I personally oversee it and only employ a fully qualified electrician to carry out all of the electrics. I like to make sure that all aspects of the work is kept to a very high standard. We keep up to date on all research with the Building Research Establishment in England and work with the RPII now part of the EPA. Any refresher courses that become available, we attend.”

McLoughlin and his team are working hard to make architects aware of and to include the Radon Barrier Integrity Test when drafting the specs for new builds. He concludes, “In the long term we will be opening our own laboratory and we will tender for projects in the UK and abroad as well as in Ireland”. When it comes to Radon awareness, the Radon Aware Group are a one stop shop for safeguarding new and existing homes and workplaces. www.radonawaregroup.ie /www.radongas.ie

Public Sector Magazine

A4 POSTER FOR CO SAFETY 2014.pdf

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06/11/2014

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OUTRIGHT WINNERS EXCELLENCE IN SERVICES TO SAFETY AND PROTECTION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

SELLING

SAFETY STANDARDS Ei Electronics is a 100% Irish owned private company.

Ei Electronics are one of Ireland’s largest indigenous electronic companies employing over 700 people at an 18,000 m2 campus in Shannon and an additional 50 at the UK Sales & Marketing subsidiary, Aico, located in Oswestry. A further 20 people are based in Germany and France. As private and public sector companies work towards increasing safety in homes, the workplace and in public sector housing, Ei Electronics is a name synonymous with quality and reliability. “We are perfectly placed to supply reliable, quality products that meet all safety standards and we can do so in an efficient and timely manner” said Tom Meehan, Production Applications Manager. Tom continues: “We are extremely pleased to receive the Public Sector Magazine award for safety and protection in the public sector.” The award he feels is an acknowledgment of the company’s ongoing efforts to provide the very best in Residential Fire Safety Products. www.eielectronics.com

Public Sector Magazine

The company has achieved continuous growth through the development of a stream of innovative new products manufactured on state of the art process technology and delivered to the highest customer service standards. Products include Heat, Fire, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms along with state of the art accessories and ancillary items.

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 Your partner in reducing costs and saving the environment

 

St. Cleran

Eurotech PureComfort is a revolution in Renewable Energy technology that uses nature to provide energy abundant in humidity to heat every building regardless of size in the most efficient way known to man without so much as a spark.

Wicklow GAA Centre of Excellence St. Clerans, Galway

St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin

Lodge Hotel Ballyliffen

Elim Church, Monaghan

The Cost effective way to achieve Part L. One decision will dramatically reduce your Co2 emissions forever. Designed install, commission and maintain one system, one Company, no confusion. Forget about burning fuel, cross the comfort bridge to sustainability. Forget about hybrid – you can have purebred.

Once you install Eurotech PureComfort you can relax in the knowledge that your heating is sorted for 40 years. A lifetime decision, without compromise. Don’t spend your life regretting easy decisions, enjoy Eurotech PureComfort. Make sure its right first time, choose Eurotech “no risk technology”, designed to perform. Saving money by doing the right thing is good news for everybody. Brecan Mooney Award 2011 & 2013

No future in RTC, join the Eurotech family of Progressive Champions. GAA Centre of excellence HSE Respite Centre Pentecostal Church Complex

Lodge Hotel, Ballyliffen Quality Inn, Cork Harcourt Hotel, Dublin

Castle Park apartments Complex St. Vincents Hospital, Dublin Dundalk Grammar School

Kingspan HQ Borris Lodge Nursing Home St. Clerans House

Call or email today, one decision towards a better future for your hotel – 00353 (0) 42 9749479 mailto:info@eurotech-heating.com www.eurotechgroup.ie

OUTRIGHT WINNERS RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM 2014 DEMONSTRATING SUSTAINABILITY

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HI TECH WITH

EUROTECH Sustainable energy technologies are clean sources of energy that have a much lower environmental impact than conventional energy technologies. They do not emit greenhouse gases and can avoid air emissions as well as water consumption, waste, noise and adverse land use impacts. Perhaps even more important for budget conscious consumers, sustainable energy solutions have considerably lower running costs than conventional options. As Ireland’s premier authority on renewables, Eurotech CEO Gerard Duﬀy discusses Ireland’s progress towards a sustainable energy eﬃcient society and how his company can help.

Public Sector Magazine

“We experienced strong interest in renewable energy this year. Potential renewable energy users are more demanding on performance and reliability having experienced system failure for various reasons over the past number of years. The Ochsner energy table has revolutionised the retro-fit market, ease of installation with no civil works reduces install cost. New builds benefit from 449.5% energy rating enabling building compliance to Part L (renewable requirement) as well as achieving a higher BER when entered into DEEP. The Ochsner system costs less as a single solution in new build satisfying energy regulation and energy requirement in one clean swoop. Winning the Brecan Mooney Award presented by the GAI was the highlight of the year in 2013, followed by achieving running costs of 0.0041 cents / m² / 24 hours on a commercial project heating twelve hundred square metres.

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The financial crisis seriously impacted on the energy sector due to the shortage of cash available to invest in renewable solutions to reduce running cost, particularly in the commercial sector. The market has suffered from choosing low prices over quality, a trend with fatal repercussions for the investor and a serious issue for procurement. A steady climb in the price of fossil fuel creates a strong case for investment in Ochsner technology, returning within three years and offering full freedom from fossil fuels and massive carbon savings. Ochsner reap high humidity using strategically advanced equipment creating endless thermal energy for heating and hot water production. Promoting investment in equipment which delivers sustainability is the challenge facing Eurotech in today’s market, delivering results is the easy part. Ireland’s progress towards a sustainable energy efficient society runs at snail’s pace. Sustainability is a mind changing reality which requires motivation to build momentum and create an atmosphere where low carbon renewable energy is an automatic choice. Fossil fuels power 90% of world energy, Ireland’s reliance on imported fossil fuels based on tradition rather than necessity is unfortunate. Norway, 100% renewable by exploiting hydro power while exporting fossil fuels such as gas to countries like the UK had vision to see beyond the obvious, creating a culture to embrace renewable energy. Humidity is a renewable energy source in Ireland grater than hydro is to Norway, yet it is being ignored despite the technology being available to harvest it. The Corrib gas field has the potential to deliver 40% of Ireland’s gas for thermal energy use over four years before peaking. Humidity has the potential to deliver 100% thermal energy in Ireland for heating and hot water while Ireland remains an Island. While the pace of innovation in renewable energy has increased dramatically it has little influence without changing energy regulations. Regulation from government drives the change necessary to adapt sustainable building solutions. Domestic building regulations have transformed the energy efficiency of new homes while commercial and industrial buildings (huge energy consumers) are being constructed to low energy performance. All new builds including commercial and industrial require energy targets stipulated in planning to include renewable energy as part of building requirements. Everybody wins by reducing carbon emissions and especially when running costs are two thirds lower than using boilers. Heating systems with zero carbon impact and zero running cost are now available, spending to save concepts however are not common place and require access to capi-

tal in order to become viable solutions. The pace of innovation is unlikely to overtake the pace of fossil fuel becoming unaffordable as an energy source, as the cost of fossil fuels continue to creep up switching to renewable energy becomes more attractive. High standards and quality work practice are necessary when applying renewable energy systems. In Eurotech there is a conscious effort to deliver high levels of performance; each project competes to win on performance through innovation and inventiveness if only by a few percentage points. Compliance to DIN (German Regulations) and BS·EN (British and European) standards is the benchmark Eurotech operate regardless of projects size or cost. Bespoke design using experienced inhouse engineers allows total control and flexibility to deliver inspirational designs and outstanding results. Extending customer warranty to seven years demonstrates our confidence as well as guaranteeing system performance. A dedicated customer care division provides long term maintenance and peace of mind. In management I believe in leading by example, there is no future in burning oil or gas, everybody in the company shares that belief, boilers have been replaced with heat pumps for at least fifteen years. Our customers are the most important part of our business, achieving the best possible result for them is the energy that driving our engineers. Consistency through knowledge base and teamwork is key to success. Eurotech is one big family where everybody’s opinion is valued. Skill levels include electronics, economics, mechanics of fluids, heating engineering, refrigerant engineering, and aircraft engineering, forming a broad base of professional expertise capable of creating innovative renewable energy solutions that are inspirational and ground breaking without taking risks. ‘Passionate about Energy’ would best describe our work force, making Eurotech Renewables an exciting and rewarding sector to work in. Energy and water have become buzzwords affecting all our lives and especially our pockets. The energy sector has gone through the bandwagon phase of buying and selling renewable products without performance linked inn. We are now into the control phase where renewable products are being applied to tick boxes in order to achieve Part L compliance again lacking scrutiny on performance and reliability. The domestic market in particular is facing a possible nightmare similar to that experienced in France during the winter of 2010 causing air con. heat pump companies to close their support lines to air conditioning type heat pumps as temperatures outside plummeted. It is advisable to conduct thorough research before investing in renewable technology as technology failure for whatever reason in this sector is a costly experience. Renewable energy systems properly designed and installed will deliver on investment inside three to five years, particularly in commercial applications.” Eurotech are dedicated to providing high quality renewable heating solutions delivering lowest possible running costs to the commercial, public and private sector. Their commitment to the market is clearly visible from our track record. Our goal is to deliver heating systems that outperform any others alternative exceeding expectations and creating a bench mark for best practice in Renewable Energy Systems. www.eurotechgroup.ie

Buail is osclófar Knock and it will open Logáil isteach ar www.gaeilge.ie leis an mbealach is tapúla a fháil go dtí an t-eolas atá uait. Féach na mionfhógraí ar NASC, áit ar féidir leat: > fógra a chur suas le cúrsa nó imeacht a lorg nó a fhógairt, > do réimse spéise a chlárú chun foláirimh a fháil a nuair a fhógraítear eolas nua, nó > a bhfuil ar fáil i do cheantar féin a chuardach – agus a lán eile. Just log on to www.gaeilge.ie for the quickest route to the information you need. Check out the NASC classiﬁed ads where you can: > post an ad to request or advertise a course or event, > register your area of interest to get alerts when new info is posted, or > search for what’s available in your neighbourhood – and much more.

1850 325 325 / 0845 309 8142 eolas@forasnagaeilge.ie

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