n President’s message

TACKLING THE BIG TICKET ISSUES

TÁ AN ÁTHAS ORM AN PHOSTA SEO A GLACADH AR SON CONTAE LOCH GARMAN!

Ialways hoped someday I would get to accept national silverware for Wexford and the acceptance of the role of President of this Society is as big an honour, or more, as winning a national hurling final! It is a role and responsibility I will not take lightly and I thank the members for this honour. I have been involved in the SCSI for 15 years in various capacities including chair of the South East region, QS Committee member and chair, board member and a member of various working groups. My experience in property and construction and the SCSI has probably formed my view in relation to some of the ‘big ticket’ items on my presidency list.

Independence: At every opportunity, we should be, and are, stressing the independence of the SCSI. This is a critical message we need to get across. While we as members are aware of it, the general public and policymakers are not. In every interaction I’ve had with relevant third parties since I became President, I have reiterated this point. I think we are winning this battle but we need to keep reinforcing this message; this is something we all can do as members.

Sustainable industry: I am unapologetic in stating that the country needs a sustainable property and construction industry. This has not, particularly since 2008/2009, been the most palatable message to outline but it is clear that once the industry suffers a severe shock, it takes a long time to get back to the required level of output in terms of provision of critical infrastructure, housing, etc. We must avoid the boom/bust cycles of heretofore.

Housing: If ever there was an issue that the SCSI can contribute hugely to in the interests of broader society it is the current housing crisis. We have made a lot of progress already in the provision of real-time, independent cost data and other commentary. But there’s more to be done, and it is being done. This is the single biggest issue facing the country, aside from Covid-19, and the SCSI must continue to contribute to its solutions.

Volunteerism: Volunteering with the SCSI brings great benefit, not just in terms of making a difference on whatever issue/topic is under review, but also in terms of networking and forming friendships. I encourage anyone interested in getting involved with their professional group, region or even working group, to please do so. You won’t regret it.

We’ve hit the ground running since my election and I look froward to progressing these issues as well as the ongoing business of the SCSI. If any member wishes to reach out to me, please do so – I’d be delighted to hear from you.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Micheál Mahon President

CONTRIBUTION

The SCSI is an independent source of advice and information on construction and property.