Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for August 2015
28/08/2015
Housing Association Cluid has been refused CAS funding despite receiving planning permission for the Emerald Housing Project in Ballymun, Sinn Féin has revealed. Housing spokesperson and TD for Dublin North West, Dessie Ellis, has hit out at the Minister for Environment and is calling on him to res
28/08/2015
A total of €10 million funding has been secured for the national road schemes in Ireland. The funding, which is part of the July Stimulus, will help towards critical remedial works, maintenance and strengthening of the road network at national, regional and local level. Minister for Transport, Tou
28/08/2015
Two men have issued death threats to Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) workers in west Belfast. The workers are currently upgrading and installing new electricity meters in the Twinbrook area. However, the men, claiming to be from the ONH, told the NIE workers they would be shot if they continued
28/08/2015
The Transport Minister has been called to provide essential emergency funding to repair in Caragh, Co Kildare. The bridge was forced to shut down on 22 August after it was damaged. Naas Mayor Cllr James Lawless said he has been told it could be up to three months before it opens, which is causing
28/08/2015
Work on The Nevin Spence Centre at the Kingspan Stadium in south Belfast is now complete. Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín officially opened the centre located in the Ravenhill Park area in Belfast. The centre is an education and heritage centre which has been named in memory of the young Ulster R
28/08/2015
Ecocel cellulose fibre is the only insulation manufactured in Ireland from locally sourced raw materials i.e. recycled newspapers. Ecocel cellulose due to it's low embodied energy in the manufacturing process added to sourcing it’s raw materials locally makes it Carbon Negative when installed. 80
27/08/2015
There has been a significant rise in employment in the construction sector in Ireland, according to figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Minister for Housing, Planning and Construction, Paudie Coffey TD, welcomed the figures and said a healthy economy must have a "vibrant" const
27/08/2015
The green light has been given to extend an Irish language school in west Belfast. Education Minister John O'Dowd approved a development to increase the number of class rooms to at least seven at the Scoil na Fuiseoige in Twinbrook. Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann welcomed the decision. She said: "
27/08/2015
Kevin Watson Group has started construction work on a new £2.2 million social housing project for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) in Dungiven, L'Derry. Funded by the Department for Social Development and Apex Housing, the development on Haas Road will provide 19 new family homes and a
27/08/2015
The Labour Party has branded Sinn Féin an "absolute disgrace" after the party decided to oppose the development of 50 new social homes in Clondalkin, Dublin. Dublin Mid West, Robert Dowds, TD, confirmed Labour has provided the money for 50 social housing units to be built at Lett's Field, however S
27/08/2015
The SDLP is calling for the "political games" being played over the development of the A5 in West Tyrone to end. The party's representative Daniel McCrossan said the development is "too important" to be used as a "political football between parties" and wants to see the project get over the line.
27/08/2015
A builder's merchants in Newry has helped transform one of Northern Ireland's national treasures. Murdock Builders' Merchants was awarded the contract to supply all building and joinery material for the £8 million restoration project at Mount Stewart. Mount Stewart, which is located on the shores
27/08/2015
MM Developments (NI) has been selected to redevelop a vacant site in Belfast into a new boutique hotel, subject to planning approval. The site, at 38 - 42 Bank Street, will result in a four floor boutique hotel with accommodation for 33 people in 17 en suite rooms. Social Development Minister, Me
27/08/2015
An improvement scheme in Bangor, Co Down, is now complete. The scheme, to upgrade pedestrian and cycle facilities at A2/Gransha Road Roundabout, also provides full traffic signal control on the roundabout, with spiral road markings and upgraded street lighting. The new traffic signals will become
26/08/2015
Cookstown form GO Power has scooped a £58 million contract with NI Water. In a joint venture, GO Power and NI Water will focus on delivering a cost effective service with an emphasis on environmental impact. Through the contract, 30% of NI Water's electricity will come from renewable sources, br
26/08/2015
Over 800 housing units are being made available in Dublin for vulnerable and homeless households. Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Housing, Cáit Keane, has welcomed the announcement, however she said a lot more can still be done. She said: "The current problems with homelessness are the result of
26/08/2015
A new initiative has been launched to help Queen's University and the Belfast City Council to save energy. A new £1.5 million Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit has been installed by Queen's on the Main Site which will reduce the carbon emissions of the organisations and provide a high quality work
26/08/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at the government over plans to protect water services from privatisation. Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan said access to water services is a "human right" and claims water services could be liberalised due to trade deals. Ms. Boylan said: "The government must make moves to
26/08/2015
The formal consultation process for the planned A32 Cornamuck realignment scheme in Dromore has launched. The announcement refers to the publication of the draft Statutory Orders which will pave the way for the provision of the road realignment scheme and represents a potential investment in the ar
26/08/2015
The Minister for Transport is being urged to incorporate the construction of the DART Underground as part the Governments next round of capital project funding. Fianna Fáil General Election candidate for Kildare North Cllr James Lawless said the construction of DART Underground offers enormous bene
26/08/2015
The European Commission has approved NI's new rural development programme. Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson welcomed the announcement and discussed the new Programme this week when he met with the EU's Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan. Mr Nicholson said: "The Programme plays an important rol
26/08/2015
The Green Party has slammed comments made by the CEO of Dublin City Council after it was revealed he dismissed opposition to the Poolbeg Incinerator as "unhelpful" Mr Owen Keegan also insisted the lack of political support for the incinerator should pose no threat to it going ahead, despite the pro
25/08/2015
Consultancy firm AECOM has been appointed to develop a Masterplan for Banbridge, Co Down. The Masterplan will set out a future vision for the areas in and around Banbridge town centre, and identify regeneration sites for the future development of the area. The firm will prepare a comprehensive, de
25/08/2015
The Government is being urged to allocate additional funding for the fuel allowance scheme. Fianna Fáil Senator Marc Mac Sharry said this summer has been very difficult on families due to the bad weather. He said: "Met Éireann have highlighted that July was poor month weather-wise, with some parts
25/08/2015
The Government has been condemned for having an "atrocious" record on housing. Sinn Féin TD and Housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis condemned the Minister for Environment and the government for recent attacks in the media on charities and local authorities in relation to the housing crisis Deputy El
25/08/2015
A new safety campaign has been launched to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe when working around the electricity network during the harvest season. With over 32,000km of overhead lines running across the country, Northern Ireland Electricty (NIE) is urging farm workers to be vigilant
25/08/2015
Kelly's Cellars pub in Belfast city centre is to remain a listed building. Speaking about his decision Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: "I have listened to the views of consultees on initial proposals for delisted buildings. After careful consideration of all the available information I hav
25/08/2015
The public is being called to visit Meath heritage sites this week during National Heritage Week. Fine Gael Meath West TD, Ray Butler, also confirmed all OPW sites are free to enter on Sunday, 30 August. Mr Butler said: "It is a really great initiative and I encourage people to get out and experi
24/08/2015
Managers at the University College Dublin (UCD) are being urged to revert their decision to increase rents for accommodation on-campus. The cost of renting a room at one of the blocks on the Belfield campus has risen by almost €1000, according to reports. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education Char
24/08/2015
Sinn Féin is urging the public to attend the Right2Water National Demonstration to be held in Dublin on Saturday 29 August. Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O'Brien is calling on all those opposed to water charges and Irish Water to make the trip to Dublin. The Cork North Central TD said: "We have an opport
24/08/2015
The British Government is being called to abandon its out-of-date nuclear energy programme. SDLP South Down MP Margaret Ritchie said only this year, large cracks were discovered in concrete tanks surrounding volatile nuclear waste storage ponds. She said: "Revelation after revelation about the sc
24/08/2015
Approximately 20,000 LED street lights are to be installed across Northern Ireland over the next eight months. The major pilot scheme, in Banbrdige and Craigavon, was announced by Regional Development Minister, Danny Kennedy. Minister Kennedy said: "Street lighting energy and maintenance costs are
24/08/2015
Over 30 community groups are to share £211,549 from the Department of Environment's (DOE) Challenge funds to carry out environmental projects. In total 33 community groups were awarded funding to give their local environment a boost. The Challenge Fund still remains open for schools and the closin
24/08/2015
Commercial property agency Lisney based in Northern Ireland has expanded its Investment team. The firm has appointed current Retail Director, Nicky Finnieston as Director of Investment and Retail as Andrew Marsden is set to leave the firm after 21 years to pursue interests beyond commercial propert
24/08/2015
Galway County Council has met with representatives from Irish Water to discuss the next steps for take over from the Group Water Scheme Committees. Galway County Council, in partner with the Group Water Scheme Committees have been working to deliver a programme of improvements to the schemes funded
24/08/2015
Environment Minister Alan Kelly has announced that he is determined to end the scourge of involuntary homelessness by the end of 2016. Minister Kelly made the announcement during a visit to Trust Homeless Services on Monday. Dublin City Council (DCC) has recently identified in excess of 100 house
21/08/2015
The NI Housing Executive has recently met with Mid and East Antrim Council to outline its plans for the next four years. A Housing Investment Plan (HIP) was presented to the council by the housing body, which replaced the District Housing Plan from previous years. The Housing Executive is due to m
21/08/2015
The Mayor of Cork, John Paul O'Shea, has urged the Government to invest in the county in order to secure its future economic and social development. Following the report of the Dublin Housing Supply Task Force, Councillor O'Shea said: "It is crucial we in Cork get the state investment needed in ord
21/08/2015
FP McCann has acquired P Clarke & Sons out of administration in a pre-pack deal. While the majority of jobs were saved by the deal, 32 staff were laid off by P Clarke & Sons before going into administration. Unite Regional Officer Gareth Scott responded to the confirmation that 32 jobs had been lo
21/08/2015
Councillor Daithí Doolan, Chair of Dublin City Council's housing committee, has hit out at the Government's rural resettlement scheme, following a number of reports regarding the initiative. In a statement, he said: "Government proposals to introduce a rural resettlement scheme to tackle homelessn
21/08/2015
Google has announced it is investing €150m in a new data centre in Dublin. A total of 400 jobs will be created during the construction phase of the project. The company has purchased a 31 acre site alongside its existing facility at Profile Park. The new two-storey facility will be Google's secon
21/08/2015
A new map has been produced to highlight areas in Northern Ireland considered "at risk" for radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the ground. Long term exposure can lead to cancer and it is estimated that every year there are about 1,000 radon linked l
21/08/2015
Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has welcomed the news that a former military site in Ballykelly, Co L'Derry, is to be transformed for use for the TV and Film production industry. In a statement, Mr McCartney said the move would boost the North West of the region and become a "massive economi
21/08/2015
Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay as urged anyone with information pertaining to the sale of NAMA's northern loans to bring it to an Assembly inquiry. Mr McKay said: "Hearings into the sale of the NAMA portfolio will resume next week when the Law Society will appear in front of the Finance Committee's inq
20/08/2015
Irish Water has announced a deal with EPS and Sorensen Civil Engineering Joint Venture for the construction of a new €12.5 million wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Youghal, County Cork. Irish Water is investing a total of €22.9 million in the Youghal Main Drainage Scheme, which is made up of tw
20/08/2015
A comprehensive policy document has launched aimed at tackling the growing national rent crisis. The document by Fianna Fáil, entitled 'Generation Rent – A new deal for Renters and Landlords', outlines a clear three step strategy to address the rent crisis. The strategy consists of strengthening
20/08/2015
70% of NI businesses fail to comply with new fuel storage regulations that are due to come into force on 31 December 2015, according to Kingspan Titan. From that date business owners must ensure any fuel at their premises is stored in a bounded - or double skinned - tank or else the owners will fac
20/08/2015
Bord Gáis Energy has launched a 'Back to School' package which offers new customers 10% off electricity and a €75 Tesco voucher. The Bundle Bonus gas and electricity offers are also available for existing customers. New dual fuel customers can get 12% off electricity, 10% off gas, a €75 Tesco vouc
20/08/2015
Concern has been raised at the safety of residents living in Pyrite affected homes in Ballymun. Sinn Féin Councillor Noeleen Reilly said Pyrite was first detected in properties in the Carton estate in 2010 and many of the homes have not received remedial works. She said: "The homeless crisis is pu
20/08/2015
Oil prices in Northern Ireland are at their lowest in six years, according to a survey by the Consumer Council. The survey shows the average price of a 500 litre fill is currently £170. Richard Williams, Head of Energy Policy at the Consumer Council said: "The cost of a 500 litre fill has dropped
20/08/2015
Energy poverty could rise among renters in Dublin city unless landlords make their properties more energy efficient, according to Codema's new report published today. The Dublin City Spatial Energy Demand Analysis highlighted how escalating rents, combined with a large number of properties in the
20/08/2015
The Government is being urged to set up a Commission of Investigation into the activities of NAMA. Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD accused the Finance Minister Michael Noonan of protecting NAMA from public scrutiny. Mr Adams said: "NAMA had previously claimed that their northern advisory commit
20/08/2015
The application process for the appointment to the Panel of Adjudicators under the Construction Contracts Act, 2013 has started. The Act introduces new minimum payment arrangements between parties to a construction contract and will apply to contracts entered into after the commencement of the Act.
20/08/2015
ORPC Ireland has scooped funding from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to carry out a feasibility assessment to identify tidal energy opportunities suitable for development in the coastal waters of County Donegal, Ireland. Through its Ocean Energy Prototype Development Fund, SEAI
19/08/2015
Fine Gael and Labour are being accused of implementing policies that are forcing people to become homeless. Sinn Féin TD and Housing Spokesperson Dessie Ellis said they are "completely out of their depth" on housing and called for a series of emergency interventions. Deputy Ellis said: "The curren
19/08/2015
A new housing development at the site of the former police station in Belcoo, Co Fermanagh, has officially opened. The new social housing development at MacNean Court, is owned and managed by Ark Housing Association, and was provided with financial support from the Department for Social Development
19/08/2015
Ireland ranked 11th place out of 60 countries at the Wordskills competition in Brazil. In total 8 medallions of excellence were awarded for the following skills: Beauty Therapy; Electrical Installation; Joinery; Cabinet Making: Automobile Technology; Plumbing; Plastering and Dry Wall; and Construct
19/08/2015
The Department for Regional Development (DRD) Cycling Unit is to host a public information event to discuss the proposed routes on Friday 21 August at the Belfast City Hall. Details of the proposed routes will be on display and staff will be attending to discuss the project and answer questions abo
19/08/2015
Finance Minister Arlene Foster has announced that the transaction volumes in the Northern Ireland housing market "remained strong". The Northern Ireland Residential Property Price Index (NI RPPI), produced by the Department of Finance and Personnel’s Land & Property Services (LPS) in conjunction wi
19/08/2015
A new campaign to deal with the serious problem of metal theft has been launched by Crimestoppers. Metal theft affects large numbers of businesses and communities across Ireland and incidents include the theft of electricity cables, copper wires, beer kegs, white electrical goods, road signs, lette
19/08/2015
The Alliance Party has welcomed the decision by members of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Council to reject an application for a mixed use scheme at the Ulster University's Jordonstown campus. The Council turned down the proposal, which would have seen 600 new homes in the Jordanstown campus, after a
19/08/2015
Work on a £180,000 bridge strengthening and improvement project in Dungannon is now complete. The improvements, at Reenaderry Bridge at Tamnamore, involved the removal of the original bridge and replacement with a new reinforced concrete beam and slab structure. Other benefits include localised t
19/08/2015
Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane has described the announcement that the government is to send letters to households across the state inviting them to apply for the conservation grant as a "crazy situtation" Senator Cullinane said the whole logic of the Govt's policy on water charges was to ensur
19/08/2015
The announcement that work is to start to upgrade the Phoenix Park tunnel in Dublin has been "cautiously welcomed" by Fianna Fail. Kildare County Councillor James Lawless said it is a "positive step" but it is not a "pancea". Cllr Lawless said: "Whilst I will always welcome investment in the railw
18/08/2015
The Phoenix Park tunnel in Dublin is to undergo a €13.7 million upgrade. The upgrade will reduce travel time for people living in Kildare who are travelling to work in Dublin. Fine Gael TD for Kildare North, Anthony Lawlor, welcomed the announcement. Mr Lawlor said: "This project will mean that c
18/08/2015
Refurbishment work on The Gobbins Cliff Path in Islandmagee is now complete. Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister, Jonathan Bell, visited the preview event today, 18 August, and said the restoration of the historic coastal path and the development of the new visitor centre will help put the c
18/08/2015
The Ulster University has said it is "deeply disappointed" after council planners rejected an application for a mixed use scheme at its Jordonstown campus. The scheme included 600 homes to be developed as well as a research and development park. Members of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Counc
18/08/2015
Sinn Féin is to hold a number of protests over the next few weeks to demand the Government take immediate action over the homeless crisis in Dublin. 21,000 families are currently on Dublin City Council's housing lists, Sinn Féin has revealed. In July, there were 556 families homeless including 118
18/08/2015
Concerns have been raised over proposals to recommend that burying nuclear waste is safe. A public information campaign is due to be launched in September, the first since Cumbria Council rejected a bid in 2013. SDLP MP for South Down Margaret Ritchie said the campaign is based on findings from a
18/08/2015
Sinn Féin is calling for student housing needs to be addressed as there will be a rise in demand in August and September. Dessie Ellis TD said the increase will put a strain on the housing market and put rents up. He made his comments following the release of the latest Daft.ie report on the renta
18/08/2015
Combilift Directors have formally turn the sod on a new purpose-built 46,000 m2 greenfield manufacturing facility. Present was Minster Heather Humphreys, Enterprise Ireland's Tom Kelly and Eugene Cummins, Monaghan County Council as well as 350 Combilift Staff. The facility is larger than originally
18/08/2015
Quartz tiles are eye catching, luxurious and oh so shiny; but, choosing the right one for your home can be a somewhat challenging task. Not only are there a huge number of styles and designs to choose from, but you also have to think about where they are going to be installed and whether this will a
17/08/2015
Sinn Féin is urging the public to attend the Right2Water National Demonstration in Dublin on 29 August. Senator David Cullinane said the government's water services policy is a "complete and utter failure". He said: "Enda Kenny and Joan Burton seem content to drive forward with their disastrous w
17/08/2015
A plumbing student from Northern Ireland has scooped a gold medal at the WorldSkills Sao Paulo 2015. Gary Doyle is currently training at the Southern Regional College. He said: "Being selected for Team UK was an amazing achievement in itself, but to win a gold medal and to be named the best plumbe
17/08/2015
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is to carry out unannounced site visits to tackle a number of risks facing construction workers. While there have been improvements in some areas, recent years have shown that construction workers are still dying due to avoidable accident
17/08/2015
Fianna Fail is calling on the Minister for Finance to address the "continuing rip-off" of variable rate customers. Spokesperson on Finance Michael McGrath was speaking following the publication by the Central Bank of the June Retail Interest Rate Statistics for June 2015 which showed that variable
17/08/2015
QMAC Construction has completed work on a number of Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) homes in west Belfast. New kitchens were installed in homes in the Doon Road area of Lenadoon Estate and the Brooke area off Blacks Road. The NIHE invested £345,000 installing 114 brand new kitchens in te
17/08/2015
The Regional Development Minister has been called to explain the contradiction of reducing the number of personnel and machines used to grit roads across Northern Ireland. Sinn Féin MLA for East Antrim, Oliver McMullan, asked Minister Danny Kennedy if he would ensure the Winter Service Route Optimi
17/08/2015
The Environment Minister has been accused of repeating the same series of "meaningless platitudes" over the homeless crisis. Fianna Fáil said Minister Alan Kelly sought to blame everyone other than himself in an interview on RTÉ Radio One. After weeks of silence from the Environment Minister Alan
17/08/2015
Dublin City Councillors are being urged to submit their ideas on how to develop the city for the next six years. The deadline for submissions is today, 17 August. The submissions will be part of the Draft Dublin Development Plan. A Fianna Fail Councillor is also calling for Dublin Port to become
14/08/2015
NI firm Farran Construction has scooped three windfarm deals worth a total of £59m. Farrans has been selected to undertake the £4.4m Sisters Windfarm, the £12.7m Goole Fields II and the £42.1m Kilgallioch windfarms. Farrans carried out the very first onshore windfarm in Northern Ireland, construct
14/08/2015
The DCAL Stadia Programme 'Project Assessment Review' (PAR) Team has concluded that the goal of constructing and operating a strategic regional stadium for the GAA in Ulster is achievable on the Casement Park site in west Belast. Sports Minister Carál Nί Chuilίn welcomed the conclusion.
14/08/2015
Water charge protestors could face being put behind bars after being charged over a protest is Tallaght last year. Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Padraig Mac Lochlainn is concerned about the situation and said it is "deeply worrying". Deputy Mac Lochlainn said: "The right to protest is a fundament
14/08/2015
People aged 60 or over living in the Greater Belfast area are being urged to apply for a grant of £500 towards the cost of switching to natural gas. The 60+ Saver initiative has been launched to help older people who want to upgrade to natural gas from their current inefficient heating systems. Ph
14/08/2015
Contractors have started work on a £96,000 road resurfacing project in Cookstown, Co Tyrone. The work, on the Killymoon Road, extends a distance of approximately 670 etresm from the A29 Church Street to the entrance to Killymoon Golf Club. It also includes the resurfacing of approximately 0.6km of
14/08/2015
Enlight Renewable Energy Ltd, an Israeli clean-power developer, has announced a €24 million deal to develop a 13.6 megawatt wind farm in Ireland. The wind farm is expected to be completed by the end of 2016. "Ireland's target of electricity production from renewables by 2020 is 40 percent, with ma
14/08/2015
Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has been called to reverse his decision to cut back on road maintenance. Sinn Féin Rural spokesperson Oliver McMullan said he is concerned that the percentage of people killed on rural roads will increase due to the lack maintenance. Mr McMullan said: "T
14/08/2015
There has been a drop in the number of households in long term mortgage arrears, according to figures released by the Department of Finance. The number of mortgages in arrears for greater than two years decreased by 116. Fine Gael TD for Kildare South, Martin Heydon welcomed the news. Mr Heydon s
13/08/2015
Lightsource Renewable Energy is to invest its resources into Ireland for the development of solar power installations. Nick Boyle, Lightsource's CEO and a native of County Antrim, commented: "We are excited by the opportunity for solar power in Ireland. Lightsource is committing significant financ
13/08/2015
Lagan Construction and NI Water are continuing to make significant progress in the Church Road area near Lisburn as part of the Castor Bay to Belfast Water Trunk Main Scheme. The work is part of a £14m investment to safeguard water quality and improve the security of supply for NI Water customers.
13/08/2015
Irish Water has issued a boil water notice to over 1,300 customers in Ballygar, Co Galway. The Boil Water Notice only applies to customers on the Ballygar Water supply. Sampling has found the presence of E-coli in the water network. Irish Water and Galway County Council are in the process of loc
13/08/2015
The housing crisis must be addressed when discussing a fair recovery, according to Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane. Senator Cullinane made the comments at a public meeting tonight as he joined with Councillor Johnny Mythen, the Sinn Féin general election candidate for Wexford, at a public meeting
13/08/2015
Carrosyl Oil Club members in Lisnaskea saved nearly 12% on a fill of 500 litres when they grouped their oil needs together. Over 25 households are members of the club which is funded by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and managed by Bryson Energy. It is free to join and open to e
13/08/2015
Irish energy firm, Energia, has launched an information resource for Irish business,
13/08/2015
The UUP is calling on the Sports Minister to answer questions following the Project Assessment Review of the redevelopment of Casement Park stadium. Ulster Unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt MLA said a number of important questions have risen from the report issued. He said: "In the notes to editors whi
13/08/2015
The Green Party has hit out at the Environment Minister over his "gross incompetence" at dealing with the ongoing Irish Water saga. Eurostat announced that Irish Water had failed the market corporation test, meaning that Government spending on Irish Water will remain on the national balance sheet.
12/08/2015
€15 million has been allocated to redevelop the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) in Dun Laoghaire. The funding will be used to proceed with a new 120-bed building on its Dun Laoghaire site. Labour TD Eamonn Gilmore welcomed the news and said it is one of Ireland's most important health facil
12/08/2015
Over 600 family homes were the subject of repossession orders in the first six months of this year, according to figures released by the Court Service. Orders were granted against a further 284 properties during the period. Dublin and Cork households were particularly hard hit with 97 families losi
12/08/2015
The Finance Minister is being urged to cooperate with the NAMA Inquiry being carried out by Northern Ireland's Finance Committee. Minister Michael Noonan has been called to make himself and his department officials available to the committee. Sinn Féin Junior Finance spokesperson Peadar Tóibín sai
12/08/2015
The Environment Minister has been called to meet with Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Críona Ní Dhalaigh to discuss the housing crisis. Councillor Ní Dhalaigh has been seeking a meeting with Minister Alan Kelly since her election as Dublin Ardmheara and though the Minister insists he is treating t
12/08/2015
Irish Water has started work on a new waste water treatment plant in Shanbally, Co Cork. The work is part of the Cork Lower Harbour Main Drainage Project. Irish Water is to make an overall investment of €91 million in the project which will eliminate the discharge of untreated sewage into the Low
12/08/2015
A new social housing development in Culcavy, Hillsborough, has officially opened. The new scheme at Annacloy Park is owned and managed by Apex Housing Association with support from the Department for Social Development (DS). It includes 22 new family homes for applicants on the social housing wait
12/08/2015
M&E services company based in Newtownabbey, Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Renewables. The companies said they will transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act as a springboard for further expansion into the multi-million pou
12/08/2015
Biffa Waste Services Limited has been fined £500 for a breach of pollution, prevention and control legislation at Belfast Magistrates' Court. The firm, with a registered office at Coronation Road, Cressex, High Wycombe, pleaded guilty to a breach of a permit condition relating to exceedances of lim
11/08/2015
Galway City Council has been allocated €735,000 to complete the Galway Picture Palace. The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has agreed a partnership approach with Galway City Council which will see the Picture Palace completed and open to the public. Galway City Council will project m
11/08/2015
A £75,000 urban resurfacing scheme in Ballymoney is to start on Monday 17 August. The work on the B66 Bann Road/Milltown Road, from Ballybrakes Road to Bann Meadows, is approximately 0.6km in length. Bann Road will be closed to Ballymoney bound traffic only, each night from 1800hrs until 2400hrs,
11/08/2015
Aggregate Industries, part of the LafargeHolcim group, is the newest entrant to the cement production market in the UK, having taken ownership of cement plants in Cauldon, Staffordshire and Cookstown, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The transfer of ownership of the two plants to Aggregate Industr
11/08/2015
A Co Fermanagh farmer has been fined for making a polluting discharge to a water which caused a fish kill at Enniskillen Magistrates' Court. Mr Mark Elliott, Currin, Ballinamallard, was fined £2,000, plus £1,599 fish restocking costs and an offenders levy of £15. On 15 June 2014, a Water Quality I
11/08/2015
Transport NI has been called to take "urgent action" to address flooding on the Boa Island Road in Fermanagh. SDLP Fermanagh Councillor John Coyle said it has become a serious hazard for local people and motorists. Mr Coyle said: "Only last week I was contacted by one lady who had to abandon her c
11/08/2015
The Galway Bay underwater ocean observatory has been completed. Through the combined effort of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Marine Institute and Commissioners of Irish Lights, the final piece of equipment has been deployed to give researchers and ocean energy developers u
11/08/2015
Serious concerns have been raised over plans to shut down Dublin's quays to private cars and close multi-storey car parks in Dublin city centre. Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Transport Timmy Dooley raised the concerns in his submission to the Dublin City Transport Study. He said: "While I welcome th
11/08/2015
Sinn Féin has welcomed the planning application for the National Children's Hospital on the St. James Hospital campus in Dublin. Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said it is a "landmark day for children's medical care and for the local communities backing onto this major construction and later major hospital si
10/08/2015
A planning application for a new children's hospital at St James's Hospital campus in Dublin is to be submitted to An Bord Pleanála later today (10 August). The plans include those for a new children's hospital, plus two paediatric outpatient departments (OPD) and urgent care satellite centres, prop
10/08/2015
Progress is continuing on a number of landscaping improvements and developments at The Dublin Institute of Technology's (DIT) Grangegorman campus. Improved features includes the all-weather pitch, tennis courts and basketball court, all of which are ready for the start of term in September. In add
10/08/2015
Northern Ireland's Sports Minister Carál Nί Chuilίn has welcomed a review which found that the construction and operation of Casement Park stadium is "achievable". The Minister's comments follows the publication of the DCAL Stadia Programme 'Project Assessment Review' (PAR) Team's indepe
10/08/2015
Energia has signed a new green energy deal with Ireland West Airport. The agreement will reduce the Airport's carbon footprint by 900 tonnes by using only energy generated from Energia's wind farms. Under the terms of the new deal, Energia will supply Ireland West Airport with 1.9 GWHs of electric
10/08/2015
Kilwaughter Chemical Company has supplied building materials for Northern Ireland's newest tourist attraction. 'The Gobbins' is a new pathway adventure along the Causeway Coastal Route. Kilwaughter supplied 400 tonnes of Quarry Red Stone for the £7.5m project. Originally closed in 1954, The Gobbi
10/08/2015
A new survey has revealed that the growth in Ireland's construction sector slowed in the month of July. It is understood the weakness of the euro forced the cost of imports to increase. The Ulster Bank Construction Purchasing Managers' Index stands at 59.1 for July and is above the 50-mark which i
10/08/2015
M&E services company, Harvey Group, has announced the acquisition of renewable energy specialists Solmatix Renewables. Both companies have said the move will "transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland." The details of the acquisition have remained undisclosed, but will bring the nu
10/08/2015
Newly-released figures have revealed that there has been an increase of 55% in the number of families becoming homeless since the beginning of 2015. The statistics, which have been published by Ireland's Department of the Environment, also highlighted a surge in the number of homeless families now
07/08/2015
Graham's Interior Fit-out business has announced the completion of two major projects in Belfast. The company has handed over a new flagship store for GAP and a Global Services Centre for law firm Baker & McKenzie. GAP opened its new premises on Donegall Place after moving from its previous locati
07/08/2015
Sinn Féin TD and Environment Spokesperson Brian Stanley has criticised Irish Water's response to the revelation of lead piping in the water system as "disgraceful". Mr Stanley's comments come after the utility provider sent letters to 26,000 households in the country informing customers of a poss
07/08/2015
Kildare County Council has announced scheduled closures on the M9 Northbound motorway. The road between Junction 3 (Athy) and Junction 2 (Kilcullen) will be closed from 9am on 10 August until 4pm on 14 August. This is due to necessary pavement surfacing works being carried out on the northbound ca
07/08/2015
A Cookstown-based plaster firm, Surfaceform, has announced it is investing £160,000 in its export growth measures. The move follows the company's success with its unique wall installations in Brussels and Hong Kong. Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI) has supported the company over recent years wit
07/08/2015
A move by the Belfast City Council to deal with the backlog of planning applications has been welcomed by Sinn Féin Councillor Matt Garrett. Councillor Garrett, who is Chair of the Planning Committee, said: "There had been a backlog of planning applications as powers were transferred from the Depar
07/08/2015
Construction work is to begin today, 7 August, on a new digital hub in Skibbereen, Co Cork. Minister for Communications Alex White will turn the first sod. When completed and opened in November of this year, the hub will consist of 75 separate workspaces and will have the fastest broadband conne
07/08/2015
Niall Collins TD, Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Justice, has hit out at a "flawed" Government policy, which he said has resulted in a "dramatic upsurge" in home repossessions. The comments by Mr Collins follow newly-released figures which revealed that almost 1,000 repossession orders were granted
07/08/2015
Gardaí and ESB Networks have issues a joint statement following a spate of incidents which have resulted in live copper overhead lines being stolen. The criminals, they added, are also stealing copper earthing conductor from High Voltage substations. In a statement, Garda said that the criminals
06/08/2015
Engineers Ireland has stated its disappointment at proposed changes to Ireland's buildings regulations. The organisation said the changes would decrease safety measures which were introduced two years ago following a series of high-profile failures. The professional body was responding to reforms
06/08/2015
A new £440,000 housing scheme for adults with mental health issues has officially opened in Antrim. The scheme, known as The Lodge, will accommodate six adults who will each have their own en-suite bedroom facilities with communal living, kitchen and dining areas. Staff from the Northern Health an
06/08/2015
Irish Water has announced it is investing €7.3 million in a conservation project to replace 19.8km of outdated pipeline in Galway City. The project will reduce the amount of water lost through leakage and improve reliability of the water supply. As part of the initiative, backyard water main rehab
06/08/2015
Clare County Council has announced essential water main repairs are taking place in Ennis today, 6 August. The improvement works will be in place until 5pm on the Clon Road, from Danaghers Corner to Knocks Bridge, along with all adjoining estates. The council added customers may experience loss of
06/08/2015
Ongoing resurfacing work is to continue in L'Derry later this month, it has been confirmed. The £200,000 project will see the Northland Road close to through traffic. It will be closed from Crawford Square to Eden Terrace from 8am on Monday 24 August to 6pm on Saturday 29 August 2015. The closur
06/08/2015
A new rural social housing development has been officially opened in Crumlin. Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, attended the ceremony at Laurelvale Close. The development consists of 14 three and four bedroom houses, and will provide for families on the social housing waiting list.
06/08/2015
Two new appointments have been made to the Board of EirGrid plc, it has been announced. Alex White TD, Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, obtained Government approval for the appointment of Michael Hand and Gerry Walsh. EirGrid is Ireland's electricity Transmission System O
06/08/2015
Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams TD, has hit out at Minister for Finance Michael Noonan, over his failure to NAMA cooperates with an inquiry into the sale of its northern loan portfolio. On Wednesday, the Stormont Finance Committee agreed in principle to use its powers of compellability to get offici
05/08/2015
Sinn Féin has launched a submission calling for the North-South interconnector to proceed underground. Elected representatives from Tyrone, Armagh, Monaghan, Cavan and Meath gathered at Navan Fort to launch the party's submission in opposition to the planning application by the north's energy syste
05/08/2015
Contractor Connelly and Fee is making significant progress on a new £3.1 million housing development in Dungannon. The Minister for Social Devleopment, Mervyn Story, visited the site for Helm Housing Association in the town centre. The new development at Sloan Street and William Street will transf
05/08/2015
Work has started on an £80,000 resurfacing project in Omagh, Northern Ireland. The scheme is on the B48 Derry Road, between Brookmount Road and Beltany Road. Work on the B48 Derry Road is due to begin on 10 August. A full closure of this stretch of B48 Derry Road will be in place daily from 09:30
05/08/2015
IDA Ireland has applied for planning permission for Finisklin Business and Technology Park in Sligo. The application is seeking permission for a new advance technology building, consisting of office and light industrial / production space. Fine Gael TD for Sligo Leitrim, John Perry welcomed the ne
05/08/2015
A builder from Belfast has been sentenced to 100 hours community service at Belfast's Laganside Magistrates' Court for failing to complete work to a professional standard. He was also ordered to pay a total of £2,000 in compensation. The case was brought by the Trading Standards Service (TSS) of t
05/08/2015
A major bridge strengthening project has started in County Tyrone. The £175,000 scheme at Bonds Bridge on the Derrygally Road in Dungannon, includes strengthening, refurbishment and painting of the existing steel structure. The scheme is expected to last up to 12 weeks. The bridge crosses the Ri
05/08/2015
Sinn Féin has hit out at the government over the establishment of Irish Water. Senator David Cullinane said that the Water Framework Directive is primarily focused on the prevention of pollution of water supply and Ireland would not face sanction as long as it lived up to that requirement. Senator
05/08/2015
A new area, Discovery Space, has officially opened at St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin. Visitors to the Cathedral will be able to get a high tech insight into the building, past and present. Highlights of the new facility include a large touch screen table featuring interactive content on the buil
05/08/2015
A US based generic drugs manufacturer has acquired the former Johnson & Johnson plant in County Tipperary. Amneal Pharmaceuticals purchased the 200,000 square foot facility in Cashel from the owner Solidus Private Equity, a Singapore-based investment firm. Amneal worked closely with Foreign Direc
04/08/2015
Work on the main Luas Cross City track started in Dublin today, 04 August. The €368 million project will link the Luas Red and Green lines and deliver an additional 10 million journeys per year when complete. The contract for the main works, which follows earlier preliminary ones, encompasses all
04/08/2015
Funding for social housing has slumped, according to data provided to Fianna Fáil. The figures show a 79% fall in funding for local authority housing, while voluntary and housing co-operatives have lost 70% of their budget and there has been a decline of 53% in private house grants. Fianna Fáil En
04/08/2015
School's are being forced to raise parents voluntary contributions because the Government is failing to commit to a Minor Works Scheme, Fianna Fáil has claimed. Education Spokesperson Charlie McConalogue is calling on the Minister for Education Jan O'Sullivan to confirm without further delay whethe
04/08/2015
Work on an £85,000 resurfacing scheme in Ballynahinch in Northern Ireland is to begin on Monday 17 August. The project, on the A24 High Street, will involve the resurfacing of a 240 metre stretch of High Street from and including the Dromore Street roundabout to Main Street/Lisburn Street junction.
04/08/2015
Sinn Féin has welcomed the decision to address legacy-planning applications in Northern Ireland. Chairperson of the Belfast City Council Planning Committee Matt Garrett made the decision. Councillor Garret said: "There were over 800 outstanding planning applications transferred to Belfast City Cou
04/08/2015
The Department of Regional Development (DRD) is being called to urgently address the threat posed following the discovery of Giant Hogweed in Glengormley. The plant is known to cause severe chemical burns to those who come into contact with it. The Giant Hogweed was discovered in the Church Road a
04/08/2015
Sinn Féin is to launch plans on the future of the National Assets Management Agency (NAMA) in Dublin today, 04 August. The discussion paper outlines proposals to ensure NAMA delivers value for money for ratepayers. North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay said: "Given the recent fall out and the ongoing Fina
04/08/2015
One of Ireland's most respected architectural firms, which is based in Cork, Carr Cotter Naessens (CCN) Architects, scooped two major awards at the prestigious Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Awards which took place in Dublin. The two awards, Best Cultural Building and Best Pu
04/08/2015
The UUP has hit out at a Sinn Fein MLA for criticising the DRD Roads Service (Transport NI) and its staff . MLA Phil Flanagn is being accused by MP Tom Elliott of implying the organisation had effectively acted in a sectarian manner. Tom Elliott was speaking after Mr Flanagan last week tweeted: 'R
04/08/2015
Over €310,000 has been secured to upgrade wastewater treatment plants in Baile An Fheirtéarigh (Ballyferriter) and Castlegregory. Irish Water approved the investment of €313,000. The existing plants are overloaded and unable to adequately treat wastewater, particularly during the busy tourist sea
03/08/2015
The Green Party has hot out at the Minister for the Environment and his Government colleagues for their gross incompetence in handling the Irish Water saga. Eurostat announced that Irish Water had failed the market corporation test. Green Party Spokesman for the Environment, Cllr Malcolm Noonan,
03/08/2015
€1.09 million has been allocated for two environmental grant schemes. The projects are the 2015 Local Agenda 21 (LA21) Environmental Partnership Fund and the 2015 Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Awareness Grant Scheme (ALAGS). Minister for the Environment, Alan Kelly, has allocated €690,000 in grants
03/08/2015
New regulations to ease the application of Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 for single dwellings and for domestic extensions have been announced. Following a review of S.I. No. 9 of 2014 after 12 months in operation, new amendment regulations that will remove the mandatory requirement
03/08/2015
Two public consultation documents seek views on the renewable energy technologies that currently receive financial support from the State, and whether the Government should broaden the range of technologies it supports. One consultation focuses on renewable electricity technologies, while the othe
03/08/2015
325,000 households are to lose tax relief on their monthly mortgage payment when mortgage interest relief is phased out by the end of 2017, Fianna Fáil has revealed. New figures provided to the part show the average benefit to families in 2015 is €850. Finance spokesperson Deputy McGrath said: "T
03/08/2015
A new resurfacing scheme has started on Glenmachan Street in Belfast. The £181,000 scheme is expected to take approximately five weeks to complete. The first phase of the work includes the footway resurfacing and will take place between Saturday 8 August and Sunday 16 August 2015. Signed diversio
03/08/2015
There has been a 34% rise in the number of households on the social housing waiting list in Dublin. New figures released to Fianna Fáil under a Freedom of Information request show that the Government is failing to get to grips with the housing crisis in the capital. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Env
03/08/2015
Five non-Executive Directors have been appointed to the Board of Northern Ireland Water (NIW). The appointments take effect from 1 August 2015 for four years and will run to 31 July 2019. Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy reappointed John Rae to the Board to serve a second term. He has b
