Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for October 2014
31/10/2014
AIB has announced it will cut mortgage rates by up to 0.25% from the start of December. It said the new standard variable and Loan to Value rate reductions will affect mortgages from AIB, EBS and Haven and will be available to both new and existing customers. It is thought the changes will affect
31/10/2014
Kilsaran has acquired Cemex's operating assets in Ireland. The deal sees the group secure ownership of plants in Cork, Tipperary, Limerick, Waterford, Wexford, Portlaoise, Ballinakill, Castletown, Duleek, and Dublin. The additional locations indicate an expansion within the company from north Lout
31/10/2014
Galway development company the Comer Brothers are to invest €1.5bn to create 3,000 homes, manufacturing space and a science park on land between Dublin Airport and the M50 motorway. Co-founder Luke Comer said: "It is close to the M50, the airport, Dublin Port and the city centre. It is an absolutel
31/10/2014
Building Energy Ratings (BER) of 'A' were given to 29% and a rating of 'B' to 64% of audited dwellings constructed in Ireland during 2010-2014, indicating an improvement on 2005-2009, when only 1% received an 'A' rating and and 38% a 'B' rating. The news follows the release of new figures by the Ce
31/10/2014
Sinn Féin's Dublin TDs have called on communities across Ireland to attend Right2Water demonstrations this Saturday, 1 November, in protest against water charges. Aengus Ó Snodaigh said: "Sinn Féin has played a central role in the Right2Water campaign and with the government under increasing public
31/10/2014
Kingspan has recently fitted out Prologis Park, an industrial estate in Coventry, England, with a renewable energy package to facilitate energy efficiency across its 1.5 million sq ft site. The Irish firm said the decision was taken to install a solar thermal system to boost the energy efficiency o
30/10/2014
Graham Construction has scooped a prestigious award from the National Irish Safety Organisation (NISO). The award from NISO and Northern Ireland Safety Group (NISG) follows on from earlier success this year with the third Gold award from ROSPA for safety performance and management of H&S issues. A
30/10/2014
Liz McDonald has been appointed as the new Chairperson Designate of Road Safety Authority (RSA). She will take up the post for the next five years. The appointment is subject to the Chairperson-designate appearing before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications. Ms. O'Donnel
30/10/2014
Over 100,000 people are expected to attend the Right2Water demonstrations this Saturday, 1st November. Sinn Féin Cllr Daithi Doolan said this Saturday marks the next level of the party's campaign. He said: "Right2Water urged people to organise a day of action in their cities; towns and villages. W
30/10/2014
A contractor has escaped injury after damaging a high voltage underground electricity cable in Portadown, Northern Ireland. Around 2,000 homes and businesses were left without electricity shortly after 9.20am on Wednesday 29 October following the damage. The incident happened as a contractor, exc
30/10/2014
The Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) has developed a new protocol to support local communities. The Social Housing and Restorative Practice (SHARP) initiative provides a formal framework that will give housing associations greater access to independent and professional se
30/10/2014
A new film has been launched by the Fold Housing Association which shows the diversity of its work throughout Northern Ireland. Fold currently has 28,000 customers, 6000 homes, employs over 800 people and has a turnover of £40 million. The film shows the range of housing tenures the Fold Group of
30/10/2014
The DUP is calling for those responsible for the fish kill in the Six Mile Water river to be exposed. DUP MLA Trevor Clarke said: "The Sixmilewater has suffered badly in the past from such pollution incidents and this latest fish kill is a huge blow, particularly to anglers in the area. "The full
30/10/2014
A £4.5 million sewerage infrastructure improvement scheme has started in the Holywood/Kinnegar area in Northern Ireland. The work on the NI Water project is due to be complete by March 2016. The project involves a programme of sewer laying, tunnelling work and construction of a pumping station in
29/10/2014
Fine Gael is urging Irish Water to consider extending the age for the children's water free allowance to students up to 23 years of age who can prove they are in full time education. Fine Gael TD for Dun Laoghaire, Mary Mitchell O'Connor, said we need to ensure that these charges are fair and affor
29/10/2014
A Sinn Féin MLA is to meet with the Environment Minister tomorrow, Thursday, in relation to concerns about planning in rural areas. Barry McElduff said planning is a major cause for concern for people wanting to build in rural areas. Speaking ahead of the meeting he said: "I will be leading a dele
29/10/2014
The European Commission has given the go-ahead to create a joint ventre firm to deliver a 100% fibre-to-the-building broadband network for the first time in Ireland. ESB and Vodafone are investing €450 millionin the joint venture, which will utilise ESB’s existing electricity infrastructure to del
29/10/2014
People living in Belfast are being urged to join an 'oil buying club', which saves money for members by purchasing home heating oil as a group, receiving the best rate per litre. The club is an initiative brought by Belfast City Council and supported by the Public Health Agency. The oil buying clu
29/10/2014
The DUP has welcomed the announcement to launch consultations of two residents' parking schemes in south Belfast. DUP MLA Trevor Clarke said the move by the Department of Regional Development (DRD) is "better late than never". Mr Clarke said: "The announcement comes after residents were once again
29/10/2014
The Nuclear Decommissioning Agency is being called to urgently accelerate its work at Sellafied. The SDLP has made the call following reports of abandoned nuclear waste storage ponds posing an immediate risk to public safety. SDLP MP for South Down Margaret Ritchie said she was shocked to see imag
29/10/2014
BAM/McCann have been appointed as construction contractors for the A26 Dualling scheme in Northern Ireland. The eight kilometre project represents an investment of £55million, including land acquisition, and will see the upgrading of the existing single carriageway to dual carriageway between Glarr
29/10/2014
A gun has been seized from a man, 65, after he pointed it at an Irish Water employee in County Louth, according to gardai. The incident occurred at a property in Ardee after 9am on Tuesday. A spokesman said that the worker was looking for a stop-com for the mains of the house. A double-barrel sho
29/10/2014
If you're reading this article, you're probably attempting a little research on which oil burner to purchase, whether you're switching from some other heat source or a different brand of oil burner. So, Why Riello? Once the facts fall into place, Riello is the only easy choice. The makers of Riel
28/10/2014
The Chartered Institute of Housing is calling on the government to reduce unaffordable private rents, especially in Dublin. Commenting on the recommendations of the 'Rent Stability in the Private Rented Sector' report, commissioned by the Private Residential Tenancies Board, Nicola McCrudden, Chart
28/10/2014
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade has slammed the Israeli Government after it announced it is going to build 1,060 new housing units in East Jerusalem. Mr Charlie Flanagan, TD, said it comes at a time of heightened tensions in Jerusalem. Mr Flanagan said: "This intention to proceed with n
28/10/2014
The European Union deal to set new climate change targets for 2030 has been welcomed by the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA). The targets have been set to boost the development of renewable energy, reduce emissions and improve energy savings. Kenneth Matthews, CEO of IWEA, said: "The 16 years
28/10/2014
A Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) substation has been broken into in Strabane. The NIE has also warned that tampering with the equipment could have been fatal. The perimeter gate and fence were both vandalised, and a bonfire built and lit near the gate. Although there was no loss of electricity
28/10/2014
A road improvement scheme is to start next month in Kircubbin, Northern Ireland. The £60,000 project will include work to improve the junction at Rowreagh Road at its Rubane Road junction, and is expected to be completed by the end of November. The scheme will provide improved sightline for drive
28/10/2014
A campaign for a referendum on the public ownership of Irish Water has been launched by the Green Party in Dublin. The campaign was launched in the Hilton Hotel by Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan, Deputy Leader Councillor Catherine Martin, Chairman and Justice Spokesperson Councillor Roderic O'Gorman
28/10/2014
The SDLP has criticised the UK government for not providing comprehensive information to the European Commission in relation to the cost of the new nuclear power site at Hinkley. MP for South Down, Margaret Ritchie, said she was astonished the UK government did not include the cost of waste storage
28/10/2014
500,000 homes and businesses across Ireland will see fibre-to-the-home delivered. Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Alex White TD, said intense competition has seen telecommunications companies investing some €2.5bn in the Irish telecommunications market. He said the Gove
27/10/2014
The Taoiseach and other European Union (EU) leaders have agreed to reduce gas emissions by 40%. They also intend to increase energy efficiency and renewables by at least 27%. The Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Alex White welcomed the news and said the outcome will require
27/10/2014
Bord na Móna has launched a new €1.5m development in Lough Boora Discovery Park, Co Offaly. The development includes a new visitor centre and facilities. Mr John Horgan, Chairman, Bord na Móna, said: "The new visitor facilities will provide an improved experience for all visitors, schools and com
27/10/2014
ESB Networks has appointed Marguerite Sayers as its new Managing Director. She graduated from UCC with a degree in electrical engineering and has 23 years' experience in ESB, working in various technical and managerial positions. Previous roles include Customer Service Manager for Dublin South and
27/10/2014
Water meter installers in Dublin have been withdrawn following a peaceful protest. The protest, which took place in Cabra, was in relation to opposition to the water charges. Sinn Féin Deputy Leader, Mary Lou McDonald TD, said: "I am delighted that the community's democratic opposition to these u
27/10/2014
A £1.2m regeneration scheme is now complete in L'Derry. The final stage of the scheme, at Clarendon Street Conservation Area, was a £360,000 Public Realm Scheme in Great James' Street and Little James' Street. Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey, said: "The completion of this £360,000 proje
27/10/2014
Work on the Northway widening scheme in Portadown, Northern Ireland, has been completed four weeks ahead of schedule. The £1.1m project involved the widening of 1.9km of carriageway to two lanes in each direction from the Seagoe to Kernan Loop junctions. The work was carried out by Gibson (Banbrid
24/10/2014
Irish Water is to issue its first bills to households at the end of January 2015. The bills will include household and children free allowances provided that people register with Irish Water by the end of November. The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) accepted Irish Water's plans to extend i
24/10/2014
The European Council has secured a compromise on the EU's overall climate change targets. Minister for the Environment, Community & Local Government, Alan Kelly, welcomed the decision and said the 2020 targets were "unrealistic". Minister Kelly said: "This deal recognises that we have secured reco
24/10/2014
Sinn Féin has expressed disappointment over news that the new Stormanstown development in Ballymun will not provide any social housing. Local Sinn Féin Councillor Noeleen Reilly said she was led to believe on numerous occasions that the development would have a certain amount of units allocated to
24/10/2014
Energia has scooped a two-year contract with Horse Racing Ireland, worth €500,000, to supply over 4 GWHrs of electricity to power four leading racecourses. Energia will be supplying the racetracks at Fairyhouse, Leopardstown, Tipperary and Navan. John Murphy, Head of Operations and Finance, HRI Ra
24/10/2014
Contract Services, an installation and maintenance firm based in Belfast, has scooped a £30 million contract. Up to 50 new jobs are expected to be created and it is the biggest 'all trades' measured term contract of its kind in Northern Ireland. Contract Services will deliver a full range of maint
24/10/2014
The Central Bank has announced plans that potential homebuyers should be able to put a 20% deposit on the cost of a property to qualify for a mortgage. Fine Gael is very concerned about the impact this may have on the ability of individuals and young families to qualify for a mortgage. Fine Gael
23/10/2014
Sinn Fein is calling for fracking to be banned throughout Ireland. Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Michael Colreavy, said the recent decision in the six counties not to extend the licence for exploration firm Tamboran Resources is a positive step. He also calle
23/10/2014
Northern Ireland has recycled and composted more waste than it landfilled, according to new quarterly figures. Both Household and Local Authority Collected (LAC) municipal recycling and composting rates, 45.2 and 44.5% exceeded their comparable landfill rates of 40.2 and 40.9% respectively. Enviro
23/10/2014
The Green Party has hit out at the Government for its "shameful" record on climate change. The party said the government continues to dodge targets and have failed to "live up to their own hype". Leader Eamon Ryan said: "We spend €6 billion a year importing energy. How have the Government still fa
23/10/2014
People living in Northern Ireland are being encouraged to check if they are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment. Payments of up to £300 are currently available to anyone who was born on, or before, 5 July 1952. You are entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment if you: • were born on or before 5 July 195
23/10/2014
The Government's plans to preserve Moore Street in Dublin have been criticised by Sinn Féin. Deputy Sandra McLellan said the proposal are "inadequate" and said the buildings on Moore Street should be preserved and not demolished. Deputy McLellan said: "Is the Minister aware that among the building
23/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is calling for the Finance Bill to scrap the planned rise in property tax bills in the next two years. The Government included a provision in the Local Property Tax legislation which provided for a revaluation of properties in 2016. The previous valuation date of May 2013 was close to t
22/10/2014
Work on Northern Ireland's first Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW) is to be complete before the end of the year. The Department for Regional Development, NI Water and its contractors BSG Engineering are carrying out the work on the £1.3 million scheme. Construction work started in April this ye
22/10/2014
The Green Party is calling for Fine Gael and Labour to "come clean" over the construction of the Poolbeg incinerator in Dublin. Party Leader, Eamon Ryan, said their "continuing silence is untenable" after it was revealed €44m of public money is to be invested in the project. Mr Ryan is urging the
22/10/2014
A new £8 million Village Renewal Scheme which aims to tackle derelict buildings is to open for applications next year. Community groups are being asked to get their village plans prepared before the scheme officially opens. The scheme is part of the DARD's Rural Development programme, to renovate
22/10/2014
The Minister for Finance is being urged to attend a debate in the Seanad in relation to NAMA's strategy of selling off property assets while the property market is still in recovery. Labour Senator Lorraine Higgins said this will result in the Irish taxpayer missing out on potentially higher reven
22/10/2014
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has expressed their "complete dismay" that the implementation of the Construction Contracts Act faces further delay after the Government transferred responsibility for the legislation. The CIF has warned that the ongoing delays with the legislation are j
22/10/2014
Work is to start on a £90,000 road improvement project in Sixmilecross, Northern Ireland. The resurfacing work on the B46 Cooley Road is to start on Wednesday 29 October. Resurfacing of a 1.1km stretch of the road between Patricks Road and Altamuskin Road is expected to be complete by Monday 3 Nov
22/10/2014
Newly refurbished headquarters of the Department of Finance and Personnel's Land and Property Services (LPS) have officially opened. Lanyon Plaza is located beside the Waterfront Hall and has been renovated to accommodate over 800 LPS staff in a modern workspace. LPS is responsible for collecting,
22/10/2014
A builder has admitted taking money from customers for building materials, however he failed to finish the work to a professional standard. The Trading Standards Service (TSS), of the Department of Enterprise and Investment, took Mr James Gordon to court following an investigation. Mr Gordon plead
21/10/2014
A free open evening to help businesses reduce their energy costs is to take place on Wednesday 29 October in Dundalk. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), in association with Dundalk Chamber of Commerce, will host the information in the SEAI offices, Finnabair Business Park, Coe's Rd
21/10/2014
The winners of local environment grants have been announced. The grant scheme, under the 2014 Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund, promotes sustainable development by assisting small scale, non-profit environmental projects at a local level. The projects are being co-funded by the Depar
21/10/2014
There is increasing interest in the oil and gas potential of the Irish Offshore, the Minister for Natural Resources has announced. At the Atlantic Ireland Conference in Dublin, Minister Joe McHugh said Ireland has the highest number of exploration authorisations in place, since exploration began in
21/10/2014
Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams, has once again slammed domestic water charges. Mr Adams said the party remains "completely opposed" to the charges and the party has blocked the introduction of domestic water charges in the North. Mr Adams said: "We will oppose tooth and nail any attempt to privatis
21/10/2014
Minister Damien English has told 'Morning Ireland' that the bonus system for top executives working for Irish Water is "acceptable". Fianna Fáil is calling on the Taoiseach and the Minister for Environment to announce whether they agree with the Ministers' statement. FF Spokesperson on Environment
21/10/2014
The transfer of responsibility for the implementation of the Construction Contracts Act 2013 has been given to Minister for Business and Employment, Ged Nash, TD. Commencement of the Act is identified as a key measure under the Action Plan for Jobs to help build the capacity of the construction ind
21/10/2014
The Department of Environment's (DOE) Operation Plan has been published. The plan manages and regulates waste in Northern Ireland. Last year the DOE discovered around 500,000 tonnes of illegal waste dumped in the Mobuoy area, Campsie, just outside L'Derry. At that time, the Environment Minister ga
21/10/2014
Construction output continued to decline in Northern Ireland in the second quarter, according to the government's official statistics. The Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin reveals that local construction output in the second quarter was almost four per cent down on the previous quarter and si
20/10/2014
Portview Fit-Out has completed the interior fit-out at luxury brand Diesel Black Gold's first concept store in central London. Diesel Black Gold, which is the advanced contemporary division of Diesel and part of the wider fashion and accessories brand which has stores worldwide, features men's and
20/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is calling on the Environment Minister To make a response following the exposure of Irish Water's bonus scheme for top executives. The revelations came to light in RTÉ's This Week programme. Deputy Cowen commented: "The bonus regime that has been revealed today in documents seen by RTÉ
20/10/2014
A Cork manufacturing company, Calnan, which specialises in the engineering of steel modular buildings, is celebrating the supporting role it played in helping Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) realise its vision for its Architecture Factory, which was highly commended under the Education &Health ca
20/10/2014
A consultation to determine which organisations should be community planning statutory partners has launched. Under local government reform, councils will have a new duty of community planning from 1 April 2015. This involves bringing together all the services and functions that are delivered in a
20/10/2014
A Sinn Féin representative is calling for the Executive to urgently address flooding in south Belfast. Alex Maskey MLA said following heavy rain homes in the area were damaged again. He said: "In the Orchardville, Lille Park and Sicily Park areas of Finaghy families are again dealing with the afte
17/10/2014
Over 130 minor works projects across schools in Northern Ireland have been agreed across all board areas. Education Minister John O'Dowd confirmed schools are to benefit from a £10 million investment. He said: "This investment will enable improvements to be carried out across the schools estate, p
17/10/2014
Irish customers could be hit with significant higher energy prices, according to a report by the ESRI. Irish Energy Policy: An Analysis of Current Issues, edited by John FitzGerald and Laura Malaguzzi Valeri, examines a range of national and international challenges facing Ireland over the coming d
17/10/2014
Sinn Féin is calling for a sub-group to be established to address the issue of the non-payment of water charges for Rental Authority Scheme (RAS) tenants who fall under the remit of Dublin City Council. Sinn Féin Councillor Ní Dhálaigh, Chair of the Strategic Policy Committee on Housing said: "RAS
17/10/2014
The Government is being called to allocate tax reliefs to members of group water schemes across Ireland. Ministers announced certain allowances for Irish Water customers in the Budget, but there were no measures in the pipeline for households which are part of a group water scheme. Fianna Fáil TD
17/10/2014
Almost 30 homes were flooded following torrential rain in Belfast on Thursday, according to the Department for Regional Development. Transport NI said it had to respond to a total of 138 incidents as a result of the weather. Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has activated an emergency scheme for
17/10/2014
Construction work has started on the new £85m hospital in Omagh. Health Minister Jim Wells recently visited the site of Omagh Local Hospital. Mr Wells said: "I am delighted to officially mark the first stage of construction at the new Omagh Hospital. From 2016 the Omagh Enhanced Local Hospital wil
17/10/2014
The Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) has welcomed the Budget announcement will see a €2.2 billion capital investment in social housing over three years. Executive Director of the ICSH, Mr Donal McManus, said this is a first step to advancing a programme which will boost supply of social hou
17/10/2014
Householders in Northern Ireland affected by flooding will be able to apply for a £1,000 payment as an offer of practical assistance. Environment Minister Mark H Durkan announced he had activated the emergency service and said the payment is meant to ensure that homes are made habitable as quickly
17/10/2014
A former unused development site has been transformed into a green temporary garden in Dublin. Lord Mayor, Christy Burke, will officially open Mary's Abbey Community Garden located just off Capel Street tomorrow, Saturday 18th October. Work has progressed well and the garden has been planted with
17/10/2014
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has organised an excavation of trenches dug by soldiers preparing to go to the Western Front in World War 1. Volunteers and schoolchildren are being urged to take part in the dig at Grey Point Fort, one of the best-preserved Coastal Defence Batteries i
16/10/2014
Irish Water has paid out over €5.1 million in bonuses from the beginning of this year, Fianna Fáil has revealed. Spokesperson on Public Expenditure and Reform Sean Fleming said this raises serious questions for the Taoiseach. The Taoiseach told the Dáil on 7th October that "no bonuses have been pa
16/10/2014
Construction work has begun on the extension to the Waterfront in Belfast. The £29.5 million extension will double the Waterfront's existing conference and exhibition space. Belfast City Council is providing £11m towards the work with £14.4 million funding from the EU Sustainable Competitiveness P
16/10/2014
Local Authorities are threatening to evict Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) tenants who are unable to pay water charges, according to Sinn Féin. Speaking during a debate on Budget measures, housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD said he had seen a letter which said RAS tenants would be jeopardising
16/10/2014
The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has appointed a new director for Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Annie Mauger will take on the new role of executive director of CIH's national business units, which means she will oversee the organisation’s operations in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast
16/10/2014
Contractor FP McCann has been selected to carry out public realm works in Newtownards, Comber and Donaghadee, Northern Ireland. £10 million is to be invested scheme which will be progressed in partnership with Ards Borough. Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey said: "This is a huge investment
16/10/2014
A newly refurbished leisure centre in Tipperary is to officially open on Monday, 20 October. Nenagh Leisure Centre now includes a new Jacuzzi, new communal changing village with family changing rooms and a dedicated disabled changing room. There is also a new Aerobics Studio which will cater for va
16/10/2014
A new Group Waste Scheme for Dublin city centre businesses has launched. DublinTown, the collective of 2,500 businesses in the city centre, pledges to cut waste collection charges by up to 20%, while offering businesses greater control over their waste management service. The Group Waste Scheme ha
16/10/2014
The Minister for Environment is being urged to explain how many lower income families will benefit nothing from the Irish Water tax reliefs. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment, Barry Cowen TD, said households were left confused following the announcement of allowances and tax reliefs on water
16/10/2014
The low level of housing supply will continue based on the lack of measures announced in Budget 2015, according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). The CIF believes that, when coupled with the Planning Bill and the potential changes in bank lending proposed by the Central Bank, it will
16/10/2014
The newly renovated premises of Cloughfern Community Credit Union have officially opened. David Dowey, Chairman of the Ulster Federation of Credit Unions and Cloughfern Community Credit Union, said: "Cloughfern Community Credit Union has enjoyed considerable success in recent years with membership
15/10/2014
The Government has pledged to increase the supply of social housing in Budget 2015. Some 90,000 people are currently waiting for social housing and lack of available units is the main problem. Labour Senator Aideen Hayden, currently Chairperson of Threshold, the National Housing Organisation, said
15/10/2014
A refurbished health centre in County Galway has been officially re-opened by Mayor Mary Hoade. The Corrandulla Health Centre has had a complete refurbishment as it had fallen into poor repair and was not suitable for staff and clients to use. Funding for the renovation work was received from HSE E
15/10/2014
Fianna Fáil has claimed working families are losing out on water tax reliefs. FF Environment Spokesperson, Barry Cowen TD, said the announcement of tax credits in relation to water charges will do very little for working families who are struggling. He said: "While it is welcome that those receiv
15/10/2014
The Consumer Council is launching an 'Energy Switch and Save' events in Belfast and L'Derry as part of Energy Switching Week from 20-24 October. The 'Energy Switch and Save' events will be held on: • Monday 20 October - from 1pm to 3pm at the City Hotel, L'Derry • Thursday 23 October - from 1pm
15/10/2014
The consultation on A5 Western Transport Corridor Scheme has opened. It will focus on the Tully Bog Special Area of Conservation. Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Declan McAleer welcomed the news and said it represents progress in moving to the next stage. He said: This consultation will begin today, 15
15/10/2014
North and East Housing Association (NEHA) has taken over the lease of 11 properties in Ardmore, County Meath, via the NAMA leasing initiative. NEHA has entered a 20 year, nine-month lease with NARPS (NAMA) for the homes. This will provide a security of tenure for residents who have been nominated f
15/10/2014
Laganwater, part of the Lagan Construction Group, has scooped a prestigious award for its Clay Lake Water Treatment Works in Keady, County Armagh. The Minister for Employment and Learning, Stephen Farry, revealed the winners at the Construction Excellence Awards 2014. The water infrastructure proj
15/10/2014
Collen Construction has reached number five in the table of Top Irish Contractors. Published in the Bruce Shaw 2014 handbook, Managing Director Leo Crehan attributed the company's success to its ability to satisfy client requirements and achieve the highest standards. He said: "Completing projects
15/10/2014
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the government on its 'short sighted' approach to the private housing market in next year's Budget. The party's Environment Spokesperson, Barry Cowen TD, said providing good quality homes at an affordable price in the right location should be a priority for the Government
15/10/2014
The increase in capital spending "marks a turning of the public spending tide for the construction sector", according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). The Government has announced €2.2 billion will be provided for social housing over the next 3 years, including €1.5 billion coming d
14/10/2014
Abolishing the 80% windfall land rezoning tax could result in a return to the corrupt development model of the Celtic Tiger era, the Green Party has warned. The party believes instead of abolishing or lowering the tax, the Government should reform it, and ensure that any revenues raised go directly
14/10/2014
The Government is being urged to introduce a new funding model for social housing in the next budget in the the form of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). The Irish Council for Social Housing (ICH) said the purpose of the SPV would be to facilitate private financing of housing associations to deliver
14/10/2014
Labour is accusing Sinn Féin of "trying to ride two horses at the same time" regarding water charges. Sean Kenny, TD, said: "Just a month ago, Pearse Doherty, the Sinn Féin finance spokesperson, said on Morning Ireland that Sinn Féin were not going to start laying down pre-conditions for going into
14/10/2014
Further consultations about the A5 Project are to begin soon. The consultation is in relation to the Tully Bog Special Area of Conservation, near the A5 Western Transport Corridor Scheme route. Four reports have been developed to consider any impacts on the integrity of all designated environmenta
14/10/2014
Marcon Fit-Out, based in Northern Ireland, has completed work on a new pop-up style store for a toy retailer in Belfast. Marcon has fitted out a 6,000 sq ft unit for Toys 'R'Us in CastleCourt shopping centre. It is the toy retailer's fourth store in Northern Ireland and is the latest in a series
14/10/2014
Caterpillar (NI) in Larne has started working on its Material Handling Project. The project is being supported by £220,000 of funding from the Department of Employment and Learning's (DEL) Assured Skills Programme. It will focus on the skills development of more than 100 high quality manufacturing
14/10/2014
Preliminary work on a major resurfacing scheme in County Tyrone is to begin on Monday 27 October. Work will start from a location 90m south west of Ballylaw Road for a distance of 1,770m eastwards towards Donemana. The main resurfacing being undertaken between 10 November and 23 November 2014. Dr
14/10/2014
A County Tyrone farmer has been fined over £700 for making a polluting discharge to a waterway. Mr Gary Anderson pleaded guilty and was fined £750, plus £28 Court Costs and £15 Offenders Levy at Dungannon Magistrates' Court. On 27 November 2013, Water Quality Inspectors, acting on behalf of the No
14/10/2014
Work is continuing to upgrade and improve the water supply in Fivemiletown, Northern Ireland. The work, by NI Water, is part of an overall £5.3m ongoing package of work for the Fermanagh and South Tyrone area. NI Water is advising the public that the timeframe has to be extended for a further thre
14/10/2014
The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has expressed concerns about greening requirements under reform of the CAP. The UFU met with Agricultural Minister Michelle O'Neill to discuss the concerns about the ability of industry to meet greening requirements in 2015, and focused in particular on the impact o
13/10/2014
Vayu has completed the rollout of its MyVayu energy management portal as part of a multi-million euro technology investment. It will cater for its growing Irish customer base and expansion into the UK energy market. The online platform provides businesses with a suite of analytical tools to manage
13/10/2014
A Dublin-based renewable energy firm has received consent from Scottish Ministers to build and operate its 450 megawatt Neart na Gaoithe (NnG) offshore wind farm in the Outer Forth Estuary in the North Sea. This will be the first large-scale offshore wind farm constructed and operated by Mainstrean
13/10/2014
The Government has announced that it is to reduce water charges in the budget, however Sinn Féin Leader Gerry Adams TD said this will not assuage public anger. Mr Adams said: "Fine Gael and Labour took a wallop in Thursday's by-elections while thousands took to the streets on Saturday demanding the
13/10/2014
Essential sewerage upgrade works are to start in the Reaville Park/Upper Newtownards Road area of east Belfast during the week commencing Monday 20 October. NI Water has scheduled the work to last for approximately eight weeks. A road closure will be required to allow safe access to the site. Th
13/10/2014
ESB International has won four new contracts in Asia spanning Malaysia, Myanmar and the Philippines. Commenting on the contract wins, Ollie Brogan, Managing Director at ESB International, said: "Asia is a major focus for ESB International and a big part of our growth plans for the coming years. Fr
13/10/2014
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has slammed a report which suggests converting the Moneypoint generation station from coal to biomass would solve Ireland's renewable energy issues. The SEAI said the report is misinformed and risks creating false hopes. The report, prepared by U
13/10/2014
The SDLP has criticised the European Commission's Decision to approve the construction of a new nuclear plant at Hinkley Point on the West Coast of England. The plant will be 240kms from the Irish sea. However, SDLP MP for South Down Margaret Ritchie said she feared it will pave the way for a new
13/10/2014
County Clare householders are being urged to take part in the Stop Food Waste challenge. The campaign is to help reduce the estimated €700 worth of food that is wasted annually by each Irish family. Clare County Council, in conjunction with the Stop Food Waste campaign, is running a series of four
13/10/2014
It has been reported that people who receive fuel-allowance and the long-term unemployed are to receive a rebate of €100 off their water bills. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment, Barry Cowen TD, said for the last three years, he has called for an ability to pay clause to be considered in rela
13/10/2014
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment has accepted disqualification undertakings from the directors of a construction and plant hire firm. The undertakings for five years were received from Martin McManus and Angela McManus both of Jenkin Road, Fivemiletown, in respect of their conduct
10/10/2014
Ireland's transport energy consumption per capita remains 20% above the EU average, according to a new report. The new report, Energy in Transport 2014, launched by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in Dublin, shows Ireland spent €3.5 billion importing fossil fuels for transport la
10/10/2014
Sinn Féin is urging the public to join a protest march against water charges. The state-wide protest is to take place in Dublin on Saturday, 11th October. Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams TD is also asking voters to support Sinn Féin today, 10th October, in the Dublin South West and Roscommon/South Le
10/10/2014
Contractor Farrans has been selected for the second phase of a £40 million Connswater Community Greenway project in Northern Ireland. The announcement was made at a celebration event in Holywood Arches attended by all the agencies involved in the project, Belfast City Council, East Belfast Partners
10/10/2014
Electric Ireland is to cut its standard residential electricity prices by an average of 2% starting on the 17th November. Jim Dollard, Executive Director Electric Ireland said: "We are happy to be able reduce prices for our residential electricity customers as we approach winter. We are committed t
10/10/2014
The Taoiseach is being called to state any representations he made to the Prime Minister in relation to concerns about the construction of a nuclear power plant in England. The European Commission approved the building of a nuclear power plant at Hinckley in Somerset. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on N
10/10/2014
A £120,000 capital investment road improvement scheme for the village of Ahoghill will be finished in the autumn. The improvement scheme on the A42 Galgorm Road, from the Cullybackey Link Road to the Killane Road, will provide almost 1km of new asphalt road surface that will strengthen and improve
10/10/2014
The Government is being called to introduce new schemes that would incentivise the development of wind microgeneration in Ireland and on Irish farms. The Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) believes it will have significant benefits to farmers and the farming industry. Microgeneration is the prod
10/10/2014
Roads are to be resurfaced in the Armagh area, the Transport Minister has announced. The works will see a stretch of almost 780 metres of road and hard shoulder resurfaced on the A28 Newry to Armagh road in the vicinity of Bolton Road. Mr Kennedy said: "This £250,000 scheme represents a significan
09/10/2014
The Northern Ireland housing market remains strong, according to the latest survey. However, price and sales growth moderated in September, according to the latest RICS and Ulster Bank Residential Market Survey for Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland recorded the highest price balance of all the UK
09/10/2014
A programme funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB) on Social Housing in Ireland will benefit Dublin as it continues to battle a housing crisis. Fine Gael Dublin MEP Brian Hayes said: "The EIB has appraised an Irish Social Housing Programme and intends to provide €150 million of funds, out of
09/10/2014
Labour has welcomed the new criteria for mortgages announced by the Central Bank. Central Bank announced people will only be granted home loans equivalent to three-and-a-half times their income. Senator Marie Maloney said: "When I was seeking to purchase the family home many years ago we were onl
09/10/2014
Construction work has started on a junction improvement scheme in Ballymena. FP McCann were selected to carry out the work on the £500,000 project at Cromkill Road, Ballee Road West Ballymena. It involves the construction of a new roundabout at this busy junction situated to the south of Ballymena
09/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is urging Sinn Féin to clarify its position on plans to privatise Irish Water. Sinn Féin's pre-budget submission released today called for equity investment in the semi-state company. Fianna Fáil Environment Spokesperson, Barry Cowen TD, said: "Sinn Féin put forward a new document toda
09/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is calling for Ireland to challenge the European Commission's decision to formally grant State Aid approval to Britian to build a new nuclear power plant in Somerset beside the Irish sea. Fianna Fáil Dublin City Councillor Jim O'Callaghan said: "The Irish government should make every at
09/10/2014
Fine Gael has slammed Fianna Fáil for failing to offer any clarity to Irish people on its position on the Local Property Tax (LPT). Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, Alan Farrell, is calling on Fianna Fáil to clarify its position on Local Property Tax ahead of next week's Budget. Mr Farrell said: "
09/10/2014
The Government is being urged to introduce new schemes that would further encourage the development of wind microgeneration in Ireland and on Irish farms The Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) maintains said it could have significant benefits to farmers and the farming industry. Microgeneration
08/10/2014
Irish renewables investment group, NTR plc, has acquired 14 250KW single turbine projects in Northern Ireland through the acquisition of KN Energy Ltd. The portfolio of projects comprises four operational sites and a further 10 development projects, most of which are at advanced stages of develop
08/10/2014
Ireland's biggest photovoltaic solar panel project is now complete. Nine public buildings throughout County Tipperary have been fitted out with massive solar panel arrays totalling 800 panels. The buildings include fire stations, libraries, civic offices and a leisure centre. As a result of th
08/10/2014
GM Design consultants have prepared a draft framework which sets out a shared vision on how to reshape and regenerate Shaftsbury Square in south Belfast. The shared vision is about the area's physical development potential that can be used by statutory bodies and private developers over the next de
08/10/2014
Labour has slammed Fianna Fail's position on Irish Water as "completely undermined". Labour Senator John Kelly has said the party repeatedly failed to tackle problems with the State's water network when in power. Senator Kelly added: "It is simply stunning that Micheal Martin has the audacity to c
08/10/2014
Construction work has started on a new £0.5m social housing scheme in Armagh. The new development at Charlemount, built by OakleeTrinity Housing Association, will provide four new high quality energy efficient homes for local people. The new social housing is being built on surplus land owned by t
08/10/2014
NI Electric firm, SSE Airtricity, is offering customers 20% off their bills. This is the biggest discount ever offered to Northern Ireland energy consumers. The company has today launched its new two-year Home Electricity Saver 24 tariff, which is up to £100 cheaper in the first year than the othe
08/10/2014
SALIIS Renewables, based in Carryduff, Northern Ireland, has been announced as a finalist for 'Installer of the Year' at this year's UK Solar Power Portal Awards. Taking place on 14 October in Birmingham, SALIIS is the only firm from Northern Ireland to be shortlisted. It is one of five finalists
08/10/2014
Fine Gael has welcomed new planning reforms which will boost jobs in the construction sector. Fine Gael Dublin South West by-election candidate, Senator Cáit Keane, said under the proposed new legislation, 10% of units in new housing schemes will be set aside for social housing. She continued: "Ad
07/10/2014
West Pharmaceutical Services has announced plans to expand its global manufacturing operations to include a new site in Waterford, Ireland. The new facility will produce packaging components for insulin injector cartridges and other high value packaging components, in order to meet growing demand
07/10/2014
A project is starting in Dublin today, 7 October, to examine how the city can harness, produce and use solar power. The three-week project is the result of Dublin City Council's successful application to participate in the IBM Smarter Cities Challenge 2014. The initiative asks cities and regions
07/10/2014
Concerns raised by Fianna Fáil since Irish Water's establishment are now being acknowledged. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment, Barry Cowen TD, said comments by former Minister Fergus O'Dowd that the set-up of Irish Water was an "unmitigated disaster", point to a deep dysfunction in its estab
07/10/2014
Central Bank has announced it will place limits on lending for mortgages. Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has welcomed the intervention of Central Bank Governor Patrick Honohan and said it is looking forward to examining the detail of the Central Bank's proposals. Mr Doherty said:
07/10/2014
The public are being called for their views on plans for the regeneration of Greenisland. Proposals for the regeneration of Greenisland, which include Greenisland Park and Sportsplex, a new community centre building and enhancements to the train station, have been completed and are now available fo
07/10/2014
NI Water has announced it has partnered with WaterSafe, the UK's national plumbing register. WaterSafe research revealed that over half (54%) of UK homeowners would trust a tradesperson based on first appearances rather than professional credentials. Over two-thirds (67%) said fresh breath and an a
07/10/2014
Power has been restored to over 8,000 homes and businesses following damage caused to the electricity network by the severe gales, in the early hours of Monday morning. More than 400 incidences of damage, resulted in electricity supplies to around 8,000 customers being disrupted. Around 5,000 cust
07/10/2014
Transport NI has invested over £2 million on road maintenance schemes in the Banbridge District Council area this year. Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said many of the schemes are already complete in the district. Mr Kennedy said: "The autumn round of Council meetings is a timely opportunity fo
07/10/2014
The McAvoy Group, off-site construction specialists based in Northern Ireland, will be attending the Academies Show, NEC Birmingham on 26th November 2014. The firm will be showcasing its modern methods of construction at stand number 216. McAvoy is a major player in the Education sector in the UK
07/10/2014
Two Sinn Féin MEPs attended a day of global action against fracking outside the European Parliament in Brussels. Matt Carthy and Martina Anderson stood with the other anti-fracking and outlined Sinn Féins opposition to hydraulic fracturing. Mr Carthy said: "Fracking has become a major issue in Ire
06/10/2014
People living in Ireland are being urged to vote against water charges this week by voting for Sinn Féin in the by-election. They are also being called to join the national anti-water charges march. Sinn Féin's candidate in the Dublin South-West by-election, Councillor Cathal King, said: "A vote f
06/10/2014
SolarWinds, based in Cork, has announced it is to create 100 new jobs in Mahon. Labour TD for Cork South Central Ciarán Lynch said: "This development is a great boost for the city, and shows the attractiveness of Cork as a place for companies to set up and invest in. "Since first locating its Euro
06/10/2014
Dublin City Council plans to allow the build of a shopping centre would destruct most of Moore Street terrace, according to Sinn Féin. Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Mícheál Mac Donncha, a member of the Council's Moore Street Advisory Committee, is urging councillors to reject the plan at a meeti
06/10/2014
A new rural community facility has officially opened in Randalstown. Tír na nÓg GAC were awarded £246,000 under the Rural Development Programme (RDP) through GROW south Antrim and Minister O’Neill praised the dedication of the Club and its members for their extensive fundraising activities to bring
06/10/2014
The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme has been extended. Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: "The extension of the RHI to domestic properties is good news for householders and the environment. "The RHI scheme helps applicants to take advantage of renewable heating solutions such as biomass
06/10/2014
Around 2,000 homes across Northern Ireland were left without electricity this morning, NIE (Northern Ireland Electricity) has said, as a result of severe gales force winds that swept across the eastern counties during the night. Gusts of 70mph, accompanied by heavy rain, damaged the network in coun
06/10/2014
Irish Water is being called to take responsibility for water networks throughout the whole country, not just on a selective basis. Labour Senator Denis Landy said he has been contacted by people living in private estates who have not been taken in charge by their local authority, and who are encoun
06/10/2014
A County Down man has been fined £6,000 for polluting charges to a waterway. Mr Robert Hamilton was also charged £10 in court costs and £15 for an Offenders Levy. On 21 August 2013, Water Quality Inspectors acting on behalf of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) inspected the Enler Rive
03/10/2014
New planning reforms unveiled will boost employment in the construction sector, the Minister for Business and Employment, Gerald Nash TD, has announced. Minister Alan Kelly outlined the proposed new legislation, which will see 10% of units in new housing schemes set aside for social housing. Minis
03/10/2014
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has hailed Minister Paudie Coffey as "the long awaited Minister for Construction." Speaking at the CIF Annual Conference which is taking place in the Aviva Stadium, CIF President Philip Crampton pointed out that the industry had been pressing for a desig
03/10/2014
A summary of responses to independent research commissioned by the Department to help inform a review of the allocation of social housing has been published. The Department, delivering on a commitment set out in the Housing Strategy, had commissioned three research reports. The reports, which were
03/10/2014
The Construction Employer Federation's (CEF) Construction Excellence Awards at the Culloden Hotel, Cultra, showcased the best of the construction industry in Northern Ireland and to celebrate the industry's achievements. Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry: "There have been positive s
03/10/2014
Fine Gael is urging the Minister for the Environment to immediately implement planning guidelines to deal with Wind Farm applications. Fine Gael TD for Meath East, Regina Doherty said: "I am calling on Minister Kelly to immediately and urgently issue new temporary planning guidelines. This was supp
03/10/2014
Fine Gael is calling on the Government to work with the ECB in getting the tracker mortgage issue resolved. The call was made after an ECB Governing Council meeting where details of the ECB's Asset Backed Securities programme were revealed. Brian Hayes said: ""The ECB said that it will begin purch
03/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is warning the proposed changes to the Part V of the Planning Act will exacerbate the social housing crisis in the country. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment, Barry Cowen, TD said proposed changes to the 2000 Planning Act, which would see a 50% cut in the amount of social housing
03/10/2014
The Department of Environment is planning a "use it or lose it" policy with regard to properties which are lying idle. Sinn Féin has welcomed the plans however the party believes more could be done. Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD said: "This is a welcome step. Our towns and cities
02/10/2014
Restoration work on Richmond Barracks Buildings in Inchicore, Dublin, is set to begin. The Lord Mayor, Christy Burke and the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphries TD attended a ceremony to mark the upcoming restoration of the Barracks Buildings. Dominick Chilcott, Britis
02/10/2014
Labour has hit out at Eirgrid over its plans to double the capacity of the national grid. Senator John Kelly said the firm's plans to massively expand are "unnecessary and unacceptable". Senator Kelly said: "The grid already has extensive redundant capacity and while it is prudent that this is con
02/10/2014
The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) and Irish Water is being urged to appear before the Oireachtas Environment Committee to explain the reasoning behind the slashing of the water allowance for children by 44%. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment, Barry Cowen TD, said since the very begin
02/10/2014
Energy firm, Energia, is offering members of The Wheel, which is celebrating its 15th birthday, special savings on energy costs. The special discounts on electricity and gas are offered by Energia as part of The Wheel's ResourcePoint initiative, where the collective bargaining power of The Wheel's
02/10/2014
NI Water employees have been threatened for a second time in Belfast. Staff working in the Glen Road area were threatened on Wednesday night. Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín said: "Workers received threats when they were working in Rosapenna St in North Belfast. "The contractor in this case has be
02/10/2014
A new £4.5m community resource centre has officially opened in west Belfast. The Glen Community Complex in the Lenadoon/Suffolk area, received £620,000 funding from the Department for Social Development. Owned by Apex Housing Association, it also received funding by the EU's PEACE III Programme a
02/10/2014
The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) is to shortly publish a survey of all construction suppliers, in a bid to stop pyrite materials finding their way on to construction sites. The CIF announced they were undertaking their survey during the course of their annual conference which took place
02/10/2014
Health and Safety Works NI (HSWNI) is holding a series of five workshops which will explain how to prepare a method statement and a construction health and safety plan. The workshops, aimed at owners or safety officers of small construction companies will make use of templates and worked examples a
01/10/2014
Tamboran's fracking licence has been terminated, however Sinn Féin is calling for a total ban on fracking, it has been revealed. Roscommon South Leitrim by-election candidate Martin Kenny there has been huge community concern in Leitrim, Fermanagh and neighbouring counties regarding the health impl
01/10/2014
The Minister for Environment is being urged to overhaul the rates system to ensure local town centres are revitalised. Sinn Féin Roscommon South Leitrim by-election candidate Martin Kenny said that small businesses in towns across Leitrim and Roscommon were under severe pressure and struggling to s
01/10/2014
Fianna Fáil is demanding Irish Water reveals the research used to influence the massive cut to the childrens' water allowance. The Commission for Energy Regulation published the full cost of water charges, which includes a reduction in the free annual allocation for children from 38,000 litres to 2
01/10/2014
The green light has been given to build a residential development at a high school site in Creggan. The 127 social housing units, to be developed at the former St Peter's site, will comprise of six four-bedroom houses, 63 three-bedroom houses, 30 two-bedroom houses, 28 one-bedroom apartments, new a
01/10/2014
More than £500,000 is being invested to upgrade the power networks in Ballymena. Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) has started the work which will upgrade electricity cables in the town centre and also facilitate the Public Realm Scheme that will commence in 2015. It is expected that the work wi
01/10/2014
Contractors and subcontractors across Tyrone and Fermanagh are close to paying off road workers due to the Department for Regional Development's (DRD) practice of funding roads maintenance through unpredictable monitoring rounds money and not the department's budget; according to the SDLP. SDLP Wes
