Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for September 2008
30/09/2008
A new dual carriageway has been approved for one of Belfast's busiest roads. Roads Minister Conor Murphy confirmed plans for a major works scheme at A2 Shore Road, Greenisland would go ahead. The Minister's announcement follows a public inquiry held into the proposals. Mr Murphy said: "I am wel
30/09/2008
The annual rate of mortgage lending growth in Ireland has hit a 21 year low, new figures have revealed. Statistics from the Central Bank show that last month's dip in new mortgages ebbed the sector into a major slump. Lending for residential mortgages in August only increased by 9% on the previo
30/09/2008
A report into the validity of underground, high-voltage power cables will be presented to the Irish government next June, it has been revealed. International consultants have been commissioned to undertake a national study to assess health and safety factors, cost implications and environmental co
30/09/2008
Thousands of Irish householders will suffer from ill health this winter due to rising energy costs, it has been claimed. The stark warning his been issued by the country's leading renewable energy association. The Renewable Energy Skills Skillnet (RESS) said financial constraints on customers, cou
30/09/2008
An Antrim architectural aluminium supplier has boosted export sales thanks to help from Invest NI. Metal Technology Ltd, who designs, manufactures and distributes aluminium window, door and curtain wall solutions, has operated since 1985. After investing £900,000, the firm transformed its manag
30/09/2008
A Limerick waste management firm is set to create 50 new jobs - following the development of "world first" technology. Re3 has announced an investment of €15m in sustainable waste technology, referred to as autoclaving. This process uses steam to recycle around 85% of domestic waste that is ordi
30/09/2008
Almost £300,000 will be spent on new kitchens for residents in east Belfast, the Housing Executive has revealed. Over one hundred Short Strand tenants occupy two and three storey homes built in the mid-1980s. As part of the new £295,000 scheme the kitchen layout will be improved to provide additi
30/09/2008
Four new members have been appointed to the Board of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI). NI Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster has announced the appointments as Gerard Campbell; Crosby Cleland; Lyn Fawcett and Pat Lyons. Mrs Foster said: "The four ne
30/09/2008
Recyclers in Derry have had their blue bin scheme extended - following successful talks between the city council and contractors. Derry City Council will now accept aerosols and all used paper, except for shredded paper and window envelopes. Since April 2003 the council has operated a kerbside co
30/09/2008
NI Telecoms Minister Arlene Foster has pledged to maintain 100% broadband access, at a reasonable cost, across Northern Ireland. The Department of Enterprise has issued an invitation to tender for a service provider that can offer basic broadband services to customers who are unable to access a fix
29/09/2008
Three major Dublin redevelopment projects, valued at around €4.3m, have been officially opened in the north of the city. The re-development and modification of Donnycarney Park, known locally as May Park, was undertaken to facilitate the build of new state of the art senior citizen accommodation -
29/09/2008
Over €700,000 of government funding has been awarded for the improvement of health services in County Clare. Two projects will share the cash, announced by the Communities Minister and Health Service Executive (HSE). An Ghrianan in Bridgetown was granted €140,000 and Scariff Health Centre awarde
29/09/2008
Renewed pleas have been made to the planning appeals authority to grant permission for Dublin's tallest hotel. An Bord Pleanala has heard from Treasury Holdings – the firm behind the 35-storey complex, based in the city's docklands. Last month, the city council’s planning service rejected the co
29/09/2008
Over £2 million of maintenance work is to be undertaken at over 600 Derry homes, the NI ousing Executive has announced. Maintenance contractor PK Murphy will modernise kitchens in 620 various locations in the city, including Grainan Drive, Friel Close, Bracken Park, Greenwalk and Longtower. Exte
29/09/2008
The final section of concrete was laid below the River Shannon at the weekend – making way for Limerick's €500m Shannon tunnel. The 20,000 tonne concrete structure was sunk beneath the river in a pre-dredged channel. The massive project, billed as one of the biggest infrastructural schemes in the
29/09/2008
A major refurbishment scheme at Lurgan's public recycling centre has entered its second phase. The £857,000 project, funded by Craigavon Borough Council, will increase the site's size by a third - with compactor skips holding much more waste. Work at the back of the Newline Recycling Centre has b
29/09/2008
Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has paid tribute to Northern Ireland businesses - who have "raised the bar" in improving their environmental performance and competitiveness. The Minister was commenting at an event marking the publication by the ARENA Network of the results of its 10th annual Envi
29/09/2008
Construction worked has kicked-off on the site of Limerick's new Greyhound Stadium. Filling and preparation for the new race track started last week. The preparation work at the Greenpark site marks the beginning of the significant development, which is due to open its doors in 2010. The next
29/09/2008
A Banbridge waste recycling manager has been dubbed the "best in Ireland" at this year’s Sustainable Ireland Energy, Environmental and Waste Management Awards. Barry Patience, who has worked as the Waste Management Officer at Banbridge District Council since 2005, was recognised at the ceremony he
29/09/2008
NI Employment Minister Sir Reg Empey has reminded employers that from 5 October working parents on maternity or adoption leave will benefit from changes in employment law. Discussing the changes in legislation, the Minister said: "Employed women whose expected week of childbirth falls on or after 5
26/09/2008
More gloomy news for the building industry has emerged - with the latest government figures reporting a fall in planning permission. During the second quarter of this year the granting of permission fell by 16.9% year-on-year. During the same period in 2007 23,988 developments were approved in co
26/09/2008
The man heading-up Northern Ireland's public purse has reassured delegates a Belfast construction conference that further investment in infrastructure is the only way to build a sustainable economy in the Province. Finance Minister Nigel Dodds highlighted the potential economic, social and enviro
26/09/2008
The Construction Industry Federation has reportedly slammed pay increases agreed under a new deal. Wage proposals under the national pay deal will be rejected by the CIF, according to the Irish Examiner, who has suggested the federation wants to renegotiate the registered Employment Agreement (REA
26/09/2008
Newry's Daisy Hill Hospital maternity unit is in line to receive an investment totaling half a million pounds, the Health Minister has confirmed. Michael McGimpsey said the £500,000 investment is part of an overall plan to improve maternity services in the Southern Trust area. The extra funding
26/09/2008
Over 200 jobs are to go at a Kilkenny mine, as the firm announced a gradual ceasing of operation. Galmoy Mine will cut its entire workforce over a phased basis during the next three years, with around 36 jobs to go by the end of this year. Redundancy negotiations between management and workers un
26/09/2008
Over 80% of Northern Ireland households are concerned about the environment, with more than 90% recycling on a regular basis - that's according to the government's latest Continuous Household Survey. Around 91% of homes in Northern Ireland recycle at least one of the following; glass, cans or pape
26/09/2008
A popular Kildare race track is to undergo a substantial facelift, it has been revealed. Improvements at Newbridge Track will be grant-aided by the Irish Greyhound Board and is expected to give a new impetus to the County Kildare venue. David Cox, owner of the stadium, said "We realised that we n
26/09/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has opened a new £2.7m residential project for homeless people at Cloverhill, in Dunmurry. The scheme of 18 self contained apartments is a partnership between BIH Housing Association and Depaul Trust. BIH Housing Association provided the new accommodation, with
26/09/2008
Irish farmers have been reminded of the impending deadline for completing work under the revised Farm Waste Management Scheme. Junior Farming Minister Tony Killeen said: "The deadline of 31 December 2008 for completion of investment works under the Scheme is a condition of the EU state aid approval
26/09/2008
The Irish government has allocation €140k to Ennis, County Clare, under the newly launched RAPID Physical Environment Improvement Scheme 2009-2013. Details of the Scheme were unveiled by Communities Minister Éamon Ó Cuív, who confirmed his department would make €9.2m available to RAPID areas annual
25/09/2008
A Northern Ireland company has set new standards in construction by designing and building seven new schools from scratch in a record 24 weeks. Coalisland firm Western Building Systems Ltd handed over the new design and built schools in record time to the Department of Education and Science in the
25/09/2008
Studies have been commissioned to assess the merit of further regeneration schemes along Belfast's riverfront, Margaret Ritchie has revealed. The Social Development Minister, speaking at Belfast City Council's Evening Economy conference, announced two new projects planned for the Lagan Lookout.
25/09/2008
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of an Irish construction firm director, over missing contributions from workers wages. Colm McNulty is director of Limestone Construction, and is accused of deducting contributions from workers wages of up to €80,000 that never made it into the pension fund.
25/09/2008
A £14 million eco-friendly water treatment plant, in Larne, has been officially opened by Infrastructure Minister Conor Murphy. The plant is the first in Northern Ireland to use Ultra Violet Light technology - a system that removes bacteria from the treatment process without the use of chemical di
25/09/2008
Rail travel in Northern Ireland grew by 12% last year, according to the government's latest transport statistics. The figures are detailed in the roads department's 2007-08 annual report, complied by the Central Statistics and Research Branch (CSRB) of the Department for Regional Development. The
25/09/2008
Talks have been held at Stormont to highlight the plight of lower-income families, who face rising fuel bills during the fast approaching winter months. First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness met with officials from the energy sector and Utility Regulator at Stor
25/09/2008
The Construction Industry's only exhibition dedicated to the sustainable building market, the Irish Sustainable Building Show and the annual Building Exhibition, attracted 9,500 visitors to the RDS last week (18 - 20 September) with a huge amount of interest shown in the Seminar Theatre where a vari
25/09/2008
There has been a broad welcome for news of a substantial environmental improvement scheme for an important area of east Belfast. Yesterday, NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie announced news of a £1.4 million environmental improvement scheme to revitalise the Newtownards Road in East Be
25/09/2008
Irish motorists who use the M50 are being urged to continue their efforts to register on a new website offering a free €250 refund on M50 Tag Registration and costs - despite the website crashing. The website, set up by Dublin based office manager Robbert J Lynch and PR consultant Joseph Kerr, aims
25/09/2008
An advance on the 2008 Single Payment will be made to Irish farmers, following talks between the State the EU Commission. Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith repeatedly pressed the case for an advance payment of the 2008 Single Payment, and had earlier reassured the rural community he would do every
24/09/2008
New anti-flooding measures in the Irish Republic will force homeowners to request planning permission before they pave their gardens, it has been revealed. Under revised government proposals those developing zoned land will have to satisfy firmer guidelines - even for building additional parking sp
24/09/2008
A proposed state 'bailout' for Irish developers is to be opposed by a leading mortgage broker at the Dáil tomorrow. The government reconvened today following an 11-week summer break, and the ailing property market looks set to dominate discussions. Previous government refusal to hold a special d
24/09/2008
The first sod on the site of a £143.5 million Critical Care Unit at Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital has been officially cut by the NI Health Minister. The Critical Care Unit will incorporate an Accident and Emergency Department, Theatres Unit; 40 Critical Care beds; and a 10-bed Burns Unit with
24/09/2008
The Irish Education Minister's comments on architectural fees for school projects has been challenged by the Royal Institute of Architects. Batt O'Keeffe said fees paid to architects deny the public value for money and said that architects' fees comprise 13.5% of the cost of a school project. Th
24/09/2008
All Northern Ireland estate agents who fail to sign-up to a redress scheme by the end of this month will be fined, the government has warned. The new law will require every estate agent, who engages in residential estate agency work, to belong to an approved redress scheme. The Estate Agents (Re
24/09/2008
Ireland is bearing the brunt of the global property market slump, according to an international survey. A Global Property Guide report found that during the 12 months leading to June 21 countries of the 33 investigated sustained a fall in property values. Ireland came third in a poll of the wors
24/09/2008
A new consumer-focused website has been launched to help those occupying or planning to buy a multi-dwelling unit. The site - consumerproperty.ie - will provide tips on rights and responsibilities for those living in apartments, and has been devised by the National Consumer Agency. The guide, 'B
24/09/2008
Sensible risk management will be the theme for next month's Europe-wide Week for Safety and Health at Work event. The 2008 campaign - which will run from 20 to 24 October - will focus on the benefits of completing and implementing a risk assessment. Aimed at demystifying the risk assessment proce
24/09/2008
NI Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie has welcomed the installation of an 'alley-gating' scheme, aimed at reducing vandalism at Kennedy Square, in Downpatrick. The project, which cost £8,000, was planned and managed by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive with funding provided by the Departmen
24/09/2008
Irish farmers have been reassured that state ministers are continuing to lobby European officials for an advance payment of the 2008 Single Payment. Junior Agriculture Minister Tony Killeen said: "My colleague, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith, has already formally applie
23/09/2008
A newly-built, £2.9 million, five-storey office block in east Belfast has been heralded as the key to helping stimulate economic growth in the local area. Economy Minister Arlene Foster (pictured with, from left, Mervyn Hempton, Chairman, East Belfast Enterprises Ltd, Denis Rooney, Chairman, Inter
23/09/2008
Pay rates for beleaguered Irish construction operatives rose slightly in the last 12 months - flying in the face of pessimism in the ailing building sector. During the year proceeding June 2008 construction workers gained a 2.2% rise in pay - bringing average weekly earnings to €817.41 from €800.
23/09/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has pledged to step-in and support those facing home repossession. The Minister said a Northern Ireland scheme would go further than those used to rescue struggling homeowners in the Republic and the rest of the UK. Despite this, the government will not help
23/09/2008
Further stalling in the outlay of the Irish National Development Plan will cause "irreparable damage" to the civil engineering sector, the industry's leading body has warned. Continued delays will lead to more job losses and the draining of key skills away from the domestic market, according to th
23/09/2008
Work-related accidents in Northern Ireland have dropped by over 20% in the last five years, according to the Health and Safety Executive. The Executive's latest Annual Report and Statement of Accounts, covering the period April 2007 to March 2008, records that from 2003 to 2008 the number of injur
23/09/2008
A €5 million facility for Amcor Flexibles has been officially opened in Sligo by the Irish Enterprise Minister. Located at IDA Finisklin Business Park, the Australian global packaging company is aiming to hold its leadership position within its chosen markets. Tánaiste Mary Coughlan welcomed the
23/09/2008
Property investment is the most appealing option for Northern Ireland financiers, according to research by Mintel. Over half of investors in the Province view property as the best means of holding capital. The survey suggested only one in 10 Ulster people invest in stocks and shares. With 51%
23/09/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has added her voice to calls for much-needed new housing in Ballyhornan, Co Down. The area has long been in the shadow of the local military base, but the construction of a new Family Centre has renewed interest from people wanting to live there. Visiting the a
23/09/2008
With work nearing completion, local representatives from North Antrim have this week gone on site to view the upgrade work at Ballymena rail station as part of the wider upgrade programme across the Derry line. The work that is being carried out at all stations and halts on the NI Railways network
23/09/2008
A rallying call has been made for this week's 'Building without Costing the Earth' conference - aimed at helping the ailing construction sector. The conference is designed to looks at off site construction technology currently available and address why the NI construction industry is currently th
22/09/2008
Dublin City Council has announced plans to build a innovative new €15m bridge over the River Liffey in Dublin city centre, just downstream of O’Connell Bridge. The bridge, which forms part of the Transport 21 Plan, will carry buses and the LUAS across this critical point of the Liffey. The str
22/09/2008
Almost 10% was knocked-off the price of Irish houses in the year leading up to August, representing, on average, a €30,000 drop in value. The latest figures form part of the Permanent TSB and the ESRI house price index, which has suggested prices fell by around 0.9% from July to August. This creat
22/09/2008
Opponents of an 'out of town' Tesco development near Ballyclare have raised their concerns with local MEP Jim Nicholson. Several incensed traders met with Mr Nicholson to discuss the proposals for the store, planned for the current FG Wilson site at Hillhead Road. Tesco has billed the developmen
22/09/2008
Plans for Ireland's tallest hotel now seem to be just 'pie in the sky' after being refused planning permission by Dublin City Council. The 35-storey development, proposed by Treasury Holdings, was set to provide hotel space for the nearby National Conference Centre, currently being built in the Do
22/09/2008
The number of homes built in Ireland during the first eight month of this year has continued to drop in comparison to 2007, figures from Irish Department of Environment have confirmed. House completions in August fell to 3,605 - adding to the total 35,714 built from January to August. Completion
22/09/2008
Two hundred jobs are to be slashed at Northern Ireland Water, it has been revealed. The part-government owned water authority said most of the redundancies would be made during the next few months. The organisations said the move supports its target of reducing staffing levels from 2,000 to 1,500
22/09/2008
The Northern Ireland utility regulator's response to calls for an independent review of electricity pricing systems has been welcomed by the Economy Minister Arlene Foster. Responding to concerns raised about the scale of the electricity price increase, including those expressed by a Stormont econo
22/09/2008
Environmental performance has topped the agenda at Banbridge District Council, following the implementation of sustainable development and sustainable procurement policies. The council said it had recognised Northern Ireland's substantial contribution to the UK's overall ecological footprint and d
22/09/2008
A new £1m council-owned sporting facility in Derry has been officially opened at a community ceremony, attended by government ministers from Northern Ireland and the Republic. The facility, located in Creggan, forms part of the Oakland Park Redevelopment Scheme. The scheme involved the regenerati
22/09/2008
NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy took a trip down memory lane as he spoke to pupils in his old school about problems caused by the school run. The Minister's visit was part of a series of events to mark Travelwise Week 2008 which encourages people to leave the car behind in favour of public trans
19/09/2008
A massive mixed-use development on the Derry Road in Omagh - that will create around 1,000 much-needed construction jobs in Northern Ireland - has been welcomed by MP Pat Doherty. Mr Doherty said proposals for the ambitious development will be a welcome boost for the local construction industry,
19/09/2008
The union representing Northern Ireland health care workers has blasted the government's financing of a £267m building contract for an Enniskillen hospital. Earlier this week the department awarded the contract to a private consortium. Unison has raised concerns over the Private Finance Initiativ
19/09/2008
Fourteen roads in rural parts of County Clare are set to benefit from funding totalling €376,399, under the 2008 CLÁR Programme. The Department of Transport and Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs have sanctioned the commencement of works, which were proposed by Clare County Council.
19/09/2008
The Geothermal Association of Ireland has announced a full day conference titled 'Geothermal Resources in Ireland – Commercial Opportunities', on 5 November 2008. The conference, which will be held at the NewPark Hotel in Kilkenny, will include high level presentations from leaders in national gov
19/09/2008
The Northern Ireland construction skills council has opened its first office in Belfast city centre, coinciding with the launch of its Building Northern Ireland campaign. ConstructionSkills, represents a wide range of employers - from contractors to professional firms. The body's latest campaign
19/09/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has visited Ardcarne Park in Newry to discuss "revitalising" regeneration proposals for the estate. The Minister met local residents and completed a walkabout of the Estate to see the extent of work required. Ms Ritchie said: "My department and the Housing Exe
19/09/2008
Irish architects have completed some of the most innovative work ever seen in the sector, according to Roger Dunwoody, Chairman of the trustees of the Construction Industry Federation and member of the Bank of Ireland Opus Architecture & Construction Awards 2008 panel of assessors. He was speaking
19/09/2008
Following years of disrepair, a beautiful landmark along the River Lagan has been brought back to life. The lock keeper's cottage at Shaw's Bridge lay vacant for over 15 years, but after extensive restoration works the picturesque building has been opened to the public. The site is one of aro
19/09/2008
Kildare-based manufacturing company Future Plastics Limited has been awarded the prestigious ISO 9001 quality standard. The firm only began trading six months ago, in March. Managing Director Gary Foley said he believes there is a future for Irish manufacturing companies that watch their bottom l
19/09/2008
A once popular secondary school on the Ards peninsula is to close following depleting admission numbers, the NI Education Minister has confirmed. Donaghadee High will close its doors in August next year, as the education board deemed the school no longer sustainable. Minister Caitronia Ruane sai
18/09/2008
Northern Ireland Health Group has been named as the successful tenderer for a new £267 million acute hospital in Enniskillen. The Western Health & Social Care Trust will now work with the Northern Ireland Health Group, a private sector consortium, to build the facility. Making the announcement t
18/09/2008
The Cork skyline now boasts Ireland's tallest building, after the official unveiling of the 17-storey Elysian in the city, last night. Located near Cork city hall, the €150m development, built by Michael O'Flynn, stands an impressive 71 metres high. The scheme aims to lead the way for the regene
18/09/2008
Executive Minister Sammy Wilson has said he will continue to lobby for individual planning applications - despite being the head of the Northern Ireland planning service. According to a newspaper report, Mr Wilson's stance has already raised concerns within the Department of Environment. However
18/09/2008
Two people have been reported as injured after a crane collapsed at the Point Depot in Dublin. A large number of personnel from Dublin Fire Brigade, as well as ambulance crews, and Garda vehicles, are on the scene. A Garda spokesman said the crane collapsed just outside the gates of the Point - n
18/09/2008
A top London financier has warned that some Northern Ireland house prices could drop by a startling 80% in value. Jonathan Davis, who was "laughed off" a BBC NI current affairs programme, in early 2007, when he predicted the property market collapse, has said Ulster prices are set to drop much fur
18/09/2008
There are objections to a proposed apartment development in a prestigious part of Co Down. Property developer Seymour Sweeney has came under-fire from Cultra residents over his plans for apartments in the village's picturesque Seafront Road area. The scheme, devised by Seafront Properties, is said
18/09/2008
The developer at the heart of one the Mahon Tribunal's main investigations has told the hearing he "never gave a penny" in his life "to Albert Reynolds or Bertie Ahern". Millionaire developer Owen O'Callaghan reflected similar comments by Mr Ahern himself on Tuesday, vehemently denying the allegati
18/09/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has been on-site at regeneration schemes in Newry, which she says are built to the "highest standard". Ms Ritchie visited a £6 million social housing development in Canal Street. The development of 44 houses by South Ulster Housing Association was funded by £4
18/09/2008
The Irish government's commitment to securing both long-term energy security and a low carbon future has been reaffirmed by Minister of State Tony Killeen. Addressing the Ministerial Conference on the Protection of Forests in Europe (MCPFE) in Dublin, the Clare TD spoke of the critical role played
18/09/2008
Loading steel at the Corus Lisburn site has just got safer, with the addition of two new eight-tonne sideloaders for the Regional business. The site has four of the new Lancer sideloaders for the last year and they had already demonstrated improved safety and reliability, creating a safer working e
17/09/2008
The Irish government could be about to step-in and offer 'top-up mortgages' to thousands of first-time buyers, struggling to get a foot on the turbulent property ladder. The move would coincide with the growth of county council mortgages - aimed at low-income buyers. Officials are said to be ass
17/09/2008
Official figures released today show the number of jobs in Northern Ireland has risen - driven by increased service sector positions - but at an overall slower rate of growth than previously, while there was a marked decrease in construction sector jobs. While the new estimates represented the high
17/09/2008
Crisis talks are being held between Cork-based builder John F Supple and its creditors, aimed at saving the firm. With a reported €39m worth of contracts in its midst, the firm is said to have offered 70 cents on the euro to its 200 creditors. Speaking to the Irish Examiner, a company spokespers
17/09/2008
Over 600 rural homes are set to benefit from an increase of £400k to the Assembly's Warm Homes budget, for energy efficiency improvements. Rural Affairs Minister Michelle Gildernew and the Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie made the announcement yesterday. The funding - totalling £2.4million - wi
17/09/2008
Ireland's largest manufacturers of pre-insulated ductwork, ALP Ducting Ireland Ltd, recently announced that the company had been contracted to provide a comprehensive pre-insulated ductwork solution to meet the specific requirements of Lansdowne Road's redevelopment. "We are proud to be a part of t
17/09/2008
The backlog in the Northern Ireland planning process has prompted the heads of the Executive to make new appointments to the Planning Appeals Commission. First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness announced a number of appointments to the Planning and Water Appeals C
17/09/2008
CEMEX NI representatives swapped their stilettos for builder's boots and showed off their building prowess in aid of this years Habitat for Humanity Construction Week Women's Build Day, in Belfast. The all-female squad who are from CEMEX NI have assisted in the construction of two semi-detached hou
17/09/2008
An important step has been taken in investigating the viability of capturing and storing CO2 gases underground in Northern Ireland. The cross-border study aims to find alternative storage possibilities for renewable energies, and has been welcomed by Economy Minister Arlene Foster. The Geologic
17/09/2008
The five local authorities in the midlands region - Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, Longford and North Tipperary - have launched a new booklet entitled 'Business Guide to Wise Waste Management', with the support of Taoiseach Brian Cowen. Offaly County Council's County Manager welcomed the launch of the
17/09/2008
A boil water notice - issued to residents in north Sligo - has been lifted by the county council and the HSE. Water is now safe in the towns of North Sligo and Kiltycahil, which were worst affected. However, the warning still applies to residents in Rosses Point and Ballincar. Foxes Den Reservoi
16/09/2008
The rapid decline in Irish house prices and the rate of the current mortgage slump has slowed, according to new figures. House values have now levelled to November 2005 prices, according to the Bank of Ireland's quarterly analysis of the Irish property market. However, house prices are continuing
16/09/2008
The Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has awarded the last three contracts for its Terminal Two works, valued at around €100m. The construction work will cover the fit-out, installation of specialist systems and the building of air bridges. Although the value of each task has not been determined, i
16/09/2008
While a top group of construction industry professionals has urged the Government to act swiftly and decisively on a range of proposals to help the fast-disappearing buying and selling process, a builder has bucked the trend and reported sales of over £13 million in just three days after slashing pr
16/09/2008
South Dublin's Tallaght Stadium, home to Shamrock Rovers Football Club, is in-line to receive a €825,000 grant from this year's RAPID Sports Capital Top-Up funding. Communities Minister Éamon Ó Cuív confirmed the funding, which is in addition to the grant of €2.75m allocated by the Department of A
16/09/2008
A global engineering consultant, with bases in Ireland, has reported health results following the acquisition of international and public sector contracts. White Young Green have seen a pre-tax profit rise of 31%, the strength of these results is contrasted by the slowdown in the international pr
16/09/2008
The first sod has been turned at the multi-million euro Mullingar Sewerage Improvement Scheme on the site of the new trunk sewer in the Lynn Industrial Estate, Mullingar in Westmeath. The Mullingar Sewerage Improvement Scheme is a major infrastructure project aimed at improving existing infrastruc
16/09/2008
Public consultation has opened on the route corridor options for the N4 Mullingar to Longford (Roosky) Road Scheme. The scheme, devised by Westmeath County Council and Longford County Council, in partnership with the National Roads Authority, will upgrade 50km of the N4 National Primary Route betwe
16/09/2008
A north Clare housing estate has picked up the top accolade at a nationwide competition. St Joseph's Road in Ballyvaughan was named the overall winner of the Best Kept Local Authority Estate 2008 competition at a function in Ennis last night. The estate achieved the highest marks of 22 participat
16/09/2008
NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has announced appointments to the board of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Four board members, nominated by the Northern Ireland Housing Council in 2007, have been re-appointed for a further year until 4 November 2009. They are Councillor Ea
16/09/2008
Steel's almost unique ability among construction materials to be reused or recycled is its most obvious sustainability strength. Steel is the most recycled material in the world and can be readily recycled many times, without any loss of properties. Structural sections can easily be reused in the
15/09/2008
Northern Ireland's Construction & Property Group issued a fresh warning to MLAs returning to Stormont today - to put their differences aside and urgently work together to save thousands of workers from losing their jobs by Christmas. In a major step-up for its campaign, members of the group, who re
15/09/2008
City planners, who gave the green light to part of the proposals for Dublin's Ballsbridge development but rejected the rest, made a mistake, an oral hearing into the project has been told. The high-rise development, by Sean Dunne, has become the subject of a Bord Pleanala enquiry, which has been t
15/09/2008
A Belfast-based skip hire firm has pleaded guilty to breaching waste management legislation and been fined £17,000 in court. The Department of Environment claimed Delta Skips' practices were posing a potential threat to human health. When department staff visited the firm's site on the Upper Spr
15/09/2008
An iconic landmark near the Cliffs of Moher, in County Clare, is to undergo massive restoration as part of a multi-million euro tourism initiative in the area. O'Brien's Tower has attracted millions of visitors since local landlord Cornelius O'Brien constructed it in 1835. Taaffe Construction ha
15/09/2008
A man has pleaded guilty for failing to take reasonable care during a fatal incident at a sawmill, which resulted in the crushing of a co-worker. Raymond Alexander Irwin, 33, from Cashel Road, Cashel, Garrison, restarted a machine while his colleague was inside it. Michael Lukan, 45, had been re
15/09/2008
The construction of the Metro North light-rail system in Dublin will force 150 of the city's bus routes to be changed, according to the Railway Procurement Agency. The agency has also said a fifth of the city's popular Saint Stephen's Green will be closed to the public, for four years, to allow wo
15/09/2008
Nine out of ten Belfast commuters would favour using sustainable transport one day a week, and leave the car at home, according to the Northern Ireland transport authority. A study undertaken by the roads department found 93% of people would be prepared to leave the car at home and use sustainabl
15/09/2008
A delegation from Clare County Council are Denmark-bound this week, on fact-finding mission to study Danish water management practices. The council's Environment and Emergency Services and Consumer Protection Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) will travel to Odense, Denmark, prior to producing River
15/09/2008
NI Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie has praised the work of community representatives in Enniskillen during a visit to the Kilmacormick Resource Centre. Commenting on a recent allocation of £7,900 of Neighbourhood Renewal funding for refurbishment work and new equipment at the building she sai
15/09/2008
Chartered Director and IoD member Chris Conway has recently made the move from the high-tech telecommunications sector at Nortel, to the fast growing steel industry at Corus, as Director for Ireland. Corus in Ireland is part of the international steel company and processes and distributes steel acr
12/09/2008
NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has visited Enniskillen to see at first hand Eco Homes for older people. The housing scheme at Abbey Drive consists of ten bungalows developed by Ulidia Housing Association in Partnership with the Department for Social Development. The Minister said
12/09/2008
Guinness's parent company has announced it is to re-open a brewery in its original home of Leixlip, Co Kildare. Owners Diageo have chosen a site near the town for its €550 milion new facility, which it is believed will be the largest in the world in terms of output and will employ 170 people. Guin
12/09/2008
Phoenix Natural Gas has re-launched its 'Dial Before You Dig' charter with a new option - Click 'Dial Before You Dig' - aimed at minimising the impact of construction work on Northern Ireland's roads. The online facility helps builders to request gas pipe location plans before they dig on any roads
12/09/2008
NI Water has announced a £1.1m sewer upgrade for Belfast's Castle Place and High Street. The work has been planned to reduce the risk of out of sewer flooding and the frequency of spills to the Farset watercourse, while complying with environmental standards. Work will commence on next week. The
12/09/2008
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council has made an order to temporarily close the M50 Northbound on-ramp at the Leopardstown Roundabout. The closure is required for the installation of a new mechanical joint and permanent pavement works. The dates for the intended closure is from 19 September, from
12/09/2008
A £1.4 million technology and design block at Edmund Rice College in Glengormley has been officially opened by NI Education Minister Caitríona Ruane. Speaking at the event the Minister said: "I initially visited Edmund Rice College back in May 2007 to cut the first sod in preparation for the constr
12/09/2008
Irish Junior Farming Minister Tony Killeen has confirmed that the Department of Agriculture has sanctioned a once off lifting of the restriction placed on REPS 2 and 3 farmers from grazing animals in upland areas of the Burren before 1 October. The north Clare TD confirmed that the decision had bee
12/09/2008
Corus, the international steel company, has received a commendation for its Ireland businesses in the Health and Safety category of this year's Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Business Awards. The Award has recognised the sustained and ongoing commitment of Corus to the Health and Safety of all
11/09/2008
Members of the Construction & Property Group are taking their fight to save thousands of jobs in the sector to the heart of Northern Ireland government. This Monday up to 100 members from the newly-formed organisation, who represent both major players and smaller firms, will tell Stormont ministers
11/09/2008
A specially built barge is steering the next stage in the development of tidal energy technology under test at EMEC; the Orkney-based European Marine Energy Centre. Irish company OpenHydro has successfully used the unique vessel to mount a tidal turbine on the seabed off Eday. Called the OpenHydro
11/09/2008
Northern Ireland Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has launched the latest phase of a new social housing scheme at Windermere, Ballymacoss in Lisburn. This £24 million development of 176 social houses by Ulidia Housing Association has been assisted by £18 million in grant aid from the Department f
11/09/2008
The economic downturn has forced a Londonderry contractor to put Northern Ireland building projects "on hold", it has been revealed. Construction firm Taggarts is reportedly holding talks with its banks to assess its financial position, amid an ailing building industry. However, the firm, which
11/09/2008
A hidden CCTV camera, located at County Cavan's Kingscourt refuge centre for two weeks last month, has resulted in the council issuing over 100 on the spot fines for littering. During the two week period the covert camera recorded over 100 people dumping rubbish at the refuge centre. The film foo
11/09/2008
A delegation from Newry & Mourne, Castleblayney and Monaghan Councils have met with NI Roads Minister Conor Murphy in Newry, to discuss Ballynacarry Bridge. Mr Murphy was there at the request of CASA a cross border linkage programme between Newry & Mourne District Council, Castleblayney Town Counci
11/09/2008
Strabane District Council has warned black bins will not be lifted if they are repeatedly found to have blue bin waste in them. The warning comes after the council revealed it was "disappointed" at the volume of recyclable waste that they have discovered during their inspections of black bins in S
11/09/2008
Ireland’s largest manufacturer of G.R.P products, Canopies Ireland, has been approved and certified by The British Board of Agrément (BBA). The award for its entire GRP Bay Canopy Range is the first in Ireland for a specialist GRP manufacturer. It further recognises and strengthens the Canopie
11/09/2008
Structural steel firm AMSE Ltd. erected an average of 1,000 tonnes of steel per month at the €80m Abbeylands shopping complex in Ferrybank, County Waterford, it has been revealed. This project is transforming a seven-acre site into a major shopping attraction in the region with subsequent plans h
10/09/2008
A third session of talks has been held between Northern Ireland construction industry representatives and the First and deputy First Minister. Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness have undertaken a series of meetings, in recent weeks, to discuss the impact of the current economic downturn. The la
10/09/2008
Kilmihil builder L&M Keating Construction has been awarded a €997,000 contract, by Clare Local Authorities, to carry out extension and refurbishment works at Shannon Fire Station. The works include the addition of three extra fire bays, the development of the drill yard, as well as the inclusion of
10/09/2008
A multi-million euro shopping centre in Limerick is set to get the nod from city authorities, according to media reports. Reports have suggested that Mayor John Gilligan, councillor Kevin Kiely and a planning official have all backed the Opera Centre plans, and are now awaiting City Manager Tom Ma
10/09/2008
In an unprecedented move, Lisburn City Council has launched a campaign urging people, from across Northern Ireland, to show their support for the proposed John Lewis store at Sprucefield. Chair of the Council's Corporate Services Committee, Councillor Paul Givan, said: "With no other site being con
10/09/2008
Lissanalta House in Dooradoyle has been shortlisted for an award in Chamber Ireland's Excellence in Local Government Awards 2008. The Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI) established the awards in 2004 to acknowledge and encourage best practice and constructive initiatives by local authorities and
10/09/2008
The boss of Limerick Regeneration, Brendan Kenny, has undergone a round of tough questioning from county Clare councillors; seeking further reassurance his organisation has no intentions to emigrate disadvantaged Limerick residents to Clare. The agency Chief Executive, responding during the two ho
10/09/2008
International transport judges have visited three Northern Ireland Translink stations currently vying for a world-wide award. The judges stopped-off at Belfast Central, Bangor and Carrickfergus, which are entered in this year's International Station Awards competition. NI Railways welcomed the ju
10/09/2008
Irish Transport Minister Noel Dempsey has came under fire from opposition politicians for spending €1.2million on consultancy fees on the Transport 21 blueprint, during the first six months of this year. The Transport 21 plan was originally launched amid a blaze of publicity in November 2005. H
10/09/2008
The amount of dedicated retail floor space in Ireland has trebled in the last five years, according to an industry report. And retail experts expect this space will grow by around 40% in the coming years. Independent retailers group RGDATA commissioned the report, which found retail space in the
10/09/2008
Banbridge District Council has launched a renewed drive to encourage local householders to use their brown bin all year round. Over the coming weeks, Technical Services staff will be attaching a label to all brown bins to remind householders to use the brown bin during autumn and winter. The coun
09/09/2008
A €150m commercial development has been launched in Drogheda, with the promise of 300 much-needed jobs for the construction sector. The 40-acre site, located near the M1 motorway, was officially unveiled by Justice Minister Dermot Ahern. Developer PA Bello has revealed its plans for the Boyne B
09/09/2008
Dundrum Town Centre has announced an expansion plan that will create 444 new jobs. Details of the 444 positions, due to come into effect by November, were unveiled as part the on-going development at the Dublin centre. The new positions will be created with the opening of Pembroke District and Du
09/09/2008
A new £2.8 million bus centre in Lisburn has been officially opened by NI Transport Minister, Conor Murphy. The Minister said: "This investment in a new bus centre is a major asset for public transport in Lisburn and local passengers will benefit from a modern fully accessible station which provid
09/09/2008
Building and Allied Trade Union members in Dublin have been threatened with legal action if they do not end a sit-in protest at the organisation's head quarters. Management has warned the union representatives they will face court action if they fail to leave the Blessington Street building by thi
09/09/2008
The contentious Maze stadium project is back on the Northern Ireland government's agenda today, as Sinn Fein and DUP Executive ministers meet for renewed talks at Stormont. Discussions are expected to last most of the day, and will reportedly cover other matters that have brought the devolved gover
09/09/2008
Funding of €185,000 allocated to improve roads in Coastal CLÁR areas of Donegal has been welcomed by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan. The Tánaiste said the funding will allow for work to commence on the protection of the roads at Derrylaghan, Kilcar and
09/09/2008
The Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has published the revised Code of Good Agricultural Practice for the Prevention of Pollution of Water, Air and Soil. Launching the code on Paul O'Hagan's farm near Moneymore, DARD's Permanent Secretary, Dr Malcolm McKibbin said: "
09/09/2008
Ennis has been named Ireland's tidiest large urban area at the 50th National Tidy Towns Competition. The County Clare contingent remained strong with both the county capital and Kilrush retaining the Gold Medals they won in last year's competition. There were a number of other successes for Clare
08/09/2008
Construction sector activity continued to fall sharply last month, with job cuts hitting a record high, according to new figures from the Ulster Bank. The bank's Construction Purchasing Managers' Index recorded 33. Despite this representing a slight growth from July's 31.3, the figure is still w
08/09/2008
Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland has launched the Construction Industry Challenge raising £25,000 ahead of this week's Construction Week in the Shankill area of Belfast. The challenge will culminate in seven-days of on-site building supported by teams supplied by a number of leading constructi
08/09/2008
Constructing Excellence in Northern Ireland (CEni) has organised a one-day conference in Belfast on 25 September, titled 'Building without Costing the Earth', in association with Tesco Property Services. The conference is expected to address the challenges the construction industry in Northern Ire
08/09/2008
Three sites earmarked for regeneration in Dublin have been released back to the city council by the developers following a mediation process. Discussions between Michael McNamara & Company and the council resulted in mutual agreement that the local authority will proceed with the projects at O'Dev
08/09/2008
Hundreds of historic buildings, across Northern Ireland, will unlock their doors to the general public this weekend, as part of the European Heritage Open Days. The annual event kicks-off on 13 and 14 September, and will offer access to venues normally firmly closed to the public. &#
08/09/2008
A motion to review the decision to relocate the Central Mental Hospital will be made at the Oireachtas Health Committee tomorrow, by Fine Gael Health Spokesperson Dr James Reilly. Dr Reilly has said the move is a Government attempt to extract "maximum worth" from a site acquired in a "bad deal" at
08/09/2008
Two historic town projects in County Clare have been allocated combined funding of almost €140,000. The Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism announced that the Ennis Historic Town Trail and the Kilrush Historic Town Trail projects will receive grants totalling €112,760 and €27,080 respectively, un
08/09/2008
International building materials group CRH has announced the appointment of Henry Morris as CRH Europe Materials Managing Director Designate. Mr Morris will succeed Albert Manifold who, as previously announced, takes up the role of Group Chief Operating Officer at the beginning of January 2009. M
08/09/2008
Community Safety Wardens have been deployed in Belfast's Beechmount area to provide a visible presence for the community, and help deter anti-social behaviour. Lending his support to the 12-week scheme, the city's Lord Mayor Tom Hartley said: "Our roaming wardens have enjoyed the overwhelming suppo
08/09/2008
Translink and local residents in Newtownards and Lisburn have celebrated the first birthday of the increasingly popular, new Ulsterbus 26C Service. The service which has seen a significant increase in passenger numbers is designed to enhance and improve public transport in the area. The service l
05/09/2008
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the Province's Home Energy Conservation Authority, has launched its new Home Energy Awards. The competition has been designed to recognise and reward the very best examples of energy efficiency within the domestic housing sector. The Awards are open to anyo
05/09/2008
Derry-based Urban Art has received a boost from enterprise agency Invest NI, which could help win additional business for its innovative technology in the property and construction markets, outside Northern Ireland. The company, formed by Paul Doherty, an experienced Architectural Technologist, in
05/09/2008
NI Housing Minister, Margaret Ritchie, has demonstrated further commitment to her department's Shared Future initiative, while delivering a keynote address at a conference on shared neighbourhoods. The Conference - Cohesion, Sharing and Inclusion: sharing the learning from Ballynafeigh - brought to
05/09/2008
Germany’s largest independent office furniture company, Spielmanns Officehouse, has announced it is entering the Irish market with a 50% acquisition of Dublin-based company DesignFlow, owned by Robert Trench. This type of merger is the first of its kind in the interiors’ sector and was undertaken c
05/09/2008
A call has been made for 'green' projects, across Belfast, to move up a step and get the recognition they deserve, in the city council's Brighter Belfast Environmental Awards. Nominations close on Monday 29 September, so the city's schools, businesses, community groups and individuals are being urg
05/09/2008
A leading Irish modular building supplier has invested in a new Portakabin show site in south Dubin. Allspace, part of the Portakabin Group, has over 45 years of modular building experience. The firm said its latest move forms part of its "fresh set of quality standards", focusing on customer se
05/09/2008
The Mayor of South Dublin County, Marie Corr, is set to launch Ireland's first underground glass 'bring bank' at Sean Walsh Park, Tallaght on Monday 8 September. South Dublin County Council is the first local authority in Ireland to install an 'accessible to all' underground bring bank. The proje
05/09/2008
An Aer Lingus pilot is embarking on a solo round the world motorbike trip of 32,000km in 150 days to raise money for the LauraLynn Foundation who are building the first Children’s Hospice in Ireland. And according to biking sources, this will be the fastest solo RTW trip by an Irish person through
04/09/2008
The Stormont Government's latest first-time buyers initiative has been given a further boost with the announcement that the North and West Housing Association has committed £4m to the money pot. This comes on the heels of the NI Housing Minister's earlier news of an affordable Portadown housing s
04/09/2008
Tánaiste Mary Coughlan has given a clear indication that the Government will move to support the beleaguered housing market in next month's Budget. Minister for Finance, Brian Leniham, called on the 2009 budget to be brought forward to October, amid rising unemployment and poor exchequer figures.
04/09/2008
Two of Ireland’s top property developers have announced plans aimed at injecting movement into the housing market, which include offering buyers interest-free loans. Radora and Glenkerrin Homes are expected to unveil further details of the scheme today. The plans have been designed to assist pote
04/09/2008
A 'green' infrastructure conference is to be held in Malahide, County Dublin, later this year, it has been revealed. This two-day conference will take place on 4 and 5 November in the Grand Hotel, and is expected to bring together experts from home and abroad to share their experiences in "green in
04/09/2008
Cork City Council’s Planning and Development Directorate has published A Guide to Archaeological Considerations in the Planning Process, to outline the importance of archaeological investigations to developers. This guide has been produced to provide assistance and practical information to develope
04/09/2008
Planning permission for the development of 'Park-And-Ride' facilities to the Cliffs of Moher has been granted by Clare County Council, Atlantis Developments has confirmed. The developer expects that the project will create up to 30 full-time jobs and bring significant benefits to the local economy
04/09/2008
NI Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie visited Conway Mill in Belfast yesterday, to announce the start of the refurbishment work on this iconic landmark. The Department for Social Development, one of six funding parties has committed almost £1.7million through its Neighbourhood Renewal initiati
04/09/2008
Wexford's footballing goalie, Anthony Masterson, will star in a different role next week when he launches a new business in Gorey. Hayes & Boland Ltd Design Studios are an architectural and interior design company, specialising in domestic and commercial projects. The new company, which is a hug
03/09/2008
Costs for a new Derry hospital facility soared by almost £4m due to delays associated with the appointment of a private developer, it has been revealed. The pharmacy centre, at Altnagelvin hospital, was expected to cost around £21.5m, but due to the time taken to select a preferred bidder, the va
03/09/2008
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has unveiled a summary of its Home Energy Savings Pilot Scheme. Through the Home Energy Saving Pilot Scheme, up to 2,000 householders will receive a grant to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Under the Cluster Strand of the Scheme, grants of up to €2,0
03/09/2008
Northern Ireland Finance Minister Nigel Dodds has pledged to seek-out public contracts, at all levels, to off-set some of the strain being felt by the ailing Northern Ireland construction industry. The Minister was speaking as he met with the Construction Employer's Federation (CEF) to discuss th
03/09/2008
Westmeath County Council has announced further disruption to the Ballinahown Water Scheme. Water in the area will be supplied from a tanker at the carpark in Ballinahown from today. Water will be available at the carpark in Ballinahown from 9am to 9pm each day thereafter until further notice, acc
03/09/2008
Ten paramilitary murals are to be given a 'makeover' as the first part of a new initiative, launched by Belfast City Council. The initiative is being funded through the Arts Council's 'Re-imaging Communities' programme, which is helping to transform local communities across Northern Ireland by tack
03/09/2008
Sligo County Council has announced proposals to construct a sewage pumping station at Easkey, in the county. The development will consist of a pump sump, pumps, meter chamber and associated site works in the townland of Castletown. Plans for the proposed development are available for inspection b
03/09/2008
Northern Ireland's First Minister and deputy First Minister have held talks with the Institute of Directors (IoD) to discuss a joint approach between the government and private sector - aimed at tackling the current economic downturn. Messrs Robinson and McGuinness met with IoD UK Director General
03/09/2008
A Council-led heating initiative has encouraged over 400 Antrim people to invest in £8,000-worth of special oil savings stamps. Antrim Borough Council said the scheme has proved a great success, with many more residents now choosing to participate in the saving service. The idea behind the scheme
03/09/2008
An international door designer has been selected to supply over 5,000 innovative products to a 'green' housing development, outside Lisburn. Belfast-based Carvill Group has purchased the doors from Vicaima's Ecodor range for its eco-housing scheme at Woodbrook, Brokerstown Village. The oak lam
03/09/2008
The people of Craigavon have reached out a helping hand to families in Malawi, Africa - through the recycling of aluminium cans and foil. The council-led initiative has meant everyone in the borough who recycles these materials, either through the green bin scheme or at the Recycling Centres, has
02/09/2008
Northern Ireland is to pilot a re-emerged 50% mortgage scheme, designed to give first-time buyers a much-needed leg-up onto, the now elusive, property market. The Province will be the first part of the UK to implement the trial scheme, which will see developers and housing authorities stump-up h
02/09/2008
New home loan lending in Ireland dropped 13.4% in the year ending June 2008, market figures have revealed. The latest data falls into line with other key market indicators. It resonates the dip in new builds, which has reduced greatly since last year. The Market Profile report from the Irish B
02/09/2008
A 'ground-breaking, self-sustained' north Belfast sports complex should be used as a model for all similar community projects, according one of the scheme's key advisors. David Carson, a leading professor in marketing, said the £35m cross community scheme, spearheaded by IFA Premiership side Crusa
02/09/2008
Despite Irish house prices continuing to plunge, it has been confirmed July experienced a decelerated rate of falls. A report, published by Permanent TSB and the ESRI found house prices dropped by 0.2% in July from June. This constituted the smallest monthly decline so far in 2008. July's figur
02/09/2008
Sustainability is key to ensuring that the infrastructure built here today will serve generations to come well, was the message echoed by Stormont Junior Ministers Gerry Kelly and Jeffrey Donaldson today. The MLAs were speaking at the announcement of the finalists in the Construction Employers Fed
02/09/2008
Plans for an Irish property TV channel have been shelved until "late 2009", according to reports. Business to Business (B2B) publisher Commercial Media has reportedly postponed the launch of the channel amid growing difficulties in the property market. However, the group has also deferred the lau
02/09/2008
NI Roads Minister Conor Murphy has announced the Hightown Bridge in Glengormley will re-open in this month, ahead of programme. During a review of the ongoing construction works on the M2 motorway, Mr Murphy said: "Excellent progress has been made on construction of the Hightown Bridge over the M2
02/09/2008
Tender Sale - By 12pm Tuesday 9 September By Order of Mr. Paul McCann of Grant Thornton Chartered Accountants, Liquidator of Scotstown Furniture Limited t/a M. Columb Furniture (In Voluntary Liquidation)
02/09/2008
The Northern Ireland arts community has received another boost today, with the unveiling of a £4.5 million capital funding package for the Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast. Announcing the redevelopment investment, Culture Minister Gregory Campbell said: "I am pleased to announce an additional £2 mi
02/09/2008
The revised Farm Waste Management Scheme has been lauded by Junior Farming Minister Tony Killeen, who has described the programme as beneficial to government and farmers alike. Clare TD and IFA member Mr Killeen said that scheme's success was the result of one of the biggest ever state supported
01/09/2008
Construction supply giant Grafton has announced disappointing half-year sales figures, with almost 50% wiped off year-on-year performance. The fall in profits has resulted in 300 jobs losses, group boss Leo Martin confirmed. The materials and DIY group conceded it had been hit by falling demand
01/09/2008
Despite economic turbulence, housing remains "first priority" for the Department of Social Development, according to Minister Margaret Ritchie. The Minister was speaking at the launch of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive's latest annual report. The report, published last week, noted an abov
01/09/2008
Output in the manufacturing sector experienced a further contraction last month, with unemployment hitting a record dip. Figures from the NCB Purchasing Managers' Index, which measures Irish manufacturing sector activity, reported 44.9 for August. This has increased slightly from July’s record s
01/09/2008
With the start of the new academic term across Northern Ireland, Employment and Learning Minister Reg Empey, today announced the formal roll out of the new ApprenticeshipsNI and Training for Success provisions. The Minister was speaking as he visited Harland & Wolff to launch the new all age appren
01/09/2008
Consultation has opened on plans for 45 new homes in Rowlestown, County Dublin. The project, proposed by Fingal County Council, comprises two and three storey houses at a site on the corner of Church Road and Rowlestown Drive, in the village of Rowlestown. The village of Rowlestown is the subject
01/09/2008
Plans for a national sports stadium in Northern Ireland were marred by further confusion at the weekend, with reports suggesting the Maze site is to be dropped, and will instead be transformed into a residential area. Reports hinted that the Stormont Executive is on the verge of completely scrappi
01/09/2008
Meath County Council's Economic Development and Innovation Unit has tabled an information and training session for local estate agents and auctioneers. The Meath Business Property Listing Service event is being held on Wednesday in Navan. The session has been organised in conjunction with the co
01/09/2008
A new art gallery at Belfast's Ulster Museum has received a half a million pound funding boost from an anonymous donor. Reports suggest the aid was granted with the understanding it would be used for a rooftop gallery that will house glassware, pottery and silver. The entire refurbishment proj
01/09/2008
The Transportation Strategic Policy Committee at Kildare County Council has proposed to develop a countywide policy for the control and management of the parking of HGV type vehicles in residential areas within the county. Given the strategic importance of transportation to economic activity and em
01/09/2008
The preliminary results of the June 2008 Agricultural Census have been released by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and show an increase in harvested crops. These are compiled from a sample survey of all active farms augmented by administrative data. The preliminary results a
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