Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for May 2017
31/05/2017
Cavan and Monaghan County Councils have been granted an additional €22,000 funding to help tackle illegal dumping. Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth welcomed the funding and called for it to be invested in monitoring and surveillance of litter blackspots. She said: "I am pleased that M
31/05/2017
Fine Gael, the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform have been slammed for failing to support the plan for a motorway between Cork and Limerick. Sinn Fein Senator Paul Gavan accused Minister Michael Noonan and Minister Pascal Donoghue of "failing the people of Lime
31/05/2017
Irish Water has submitted a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to An Bord Pleanála to acquire the necessary lands to complete a Watermain Rehabilitation Project in Swords, Dublin. The lands included are on Fosterstown North, Balheary Demesne/Seatown West and Lissenhall Great/Lissenhall Little. If the
31/05/2017
Labour is calling on An Bord Pleanala to reject two appeals lodged against the decision to grant planning permission to Intel for its Modified New Chip Manufacturing Facility at its Headquarters in Leixlip. Kildare County Council granted planning permission on Tuesday, 02 May. Kildare North Labour
31/05/2017
The Midlands could become Ireland's "rust belt" unless the Government develops a comprehensive plan to deal with the decline of fossil fuel employment in the area, the Green Party has warned. The warning came as the party launched its 'Just Transition' plan, based on Bernie Sanders' Clean Energy Wo
31/05/2017
Fianna Fail is warning that a move to designate a Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Ireland West Airport Knock must be backed up with investment to ensure the area is developed properly. TD for Mayo Dara Calleary said: "The confirmation of this SDZ has been a long time coming, and while I welcome
31/05/2017
The National Forestry Conference in Co Meath has officially opened. The event is taking place at Johnstown House Hotel and has been organised by the Wood Marketing Federation and the Society of Irish Foresters. Mr Andrew Doyle, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the
31/05/2017
Over 3,000 hotel bedrooms will be delivered in Dublin by the end of 2019, according to new analysis The analysis, undertaken by Savills Hotels and Leisure division, examined hotels that are in the planning process, have received planning approval, or are currently under construction. The majority
30/05/2017
Funding has been secured to repair the damage caused to Sligo Way following a recent spate of forest fires. Fianna Fáil TD for Sligo-Leitrim Eamon Scanlon welcomed the announcement and called for the work to get underway "without delay". Deputy Scanlon said: "The recent forest fires at Killery saw
30/05/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling on the Government to establish a plan which will help all first time buyers. TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Marc MacSharry, made the call and said the Government's Help to Buy scheme is not working for first time buyers in the North West because practically no new houses have been bui
30/05/2017
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has announced it is to host consultation events for the public to discuss proposed road improvements along the A1 between Hillsborough Roundabout and Loughbrickland. The events will take place at: • Banbridge Town Hall, 11am-8pm, Wednesday, 14 June • Hillsb
30/05/2017
The Green Party is calling for school land to be protected from being sold for housing. The party made the call following the sales of land at Our Lady's Grove in Goatstown and Clonkeen College, Blackrock. Green Party Deputy Leader and TD for Dublin Rathdown Catherine Martin said: "The recent anno
30/05/2017
Almost €60 million is being made available for Housing Adaptations for Older People and People with a Disability living in private houses. The €59.8m investment will allow extensions to be built for people with a disability as well as housing adaptations to improve mobility aid. Housing Minister S
30/05/2017
The new Emergency Department (ED) at University Hospital Limerick has officially opened. The new ED is three times the size of the current department and will provide safe, modern, fit for purpose facilities that meet the needs and expectations of patients and their families. Minister for Health S
30/05/2017
Less than 20 applications have been lodged for the Government's Help to Buy scheme since January in Cavan and Monaghan, according to new figures from the Department of Finance. Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth said the new figures show the extent of the failure of the scheme for first
30/05/2017
Sinn Fein has hit out at the Housing Minister after he failed to provide any detail on what the affordability commitments developers are obliged to stick to in order to access funding via the Local Infrastructure Housing Activation Fund (LIHAF). LIHAF is a €200 million fund established to allow lo
26/05/2017
Irish Water has issued a reminder to residents living on the Aran Islands in Donegal to conserve their water supplies. The firm made the call as further restrictions likely as the dry spell continues. Night time water restrictions are already in place on Inis Mór and Inis Oirr while the water cons
26/05/2017
Sinn Fein has said the government's housing policy is "ruining people's lives". President Gerry Adams TD made the comments after 12 families and 30 children presented themselves at Garda stations on Tuesday, 23 May, as they had nowhere else to go. Mr Adams said "the next Taoiseach must listen to p
26/05/2017
Belfast City Council has announced that an information session is to take place to discuss plans for a memorial at the City Cemetery. Proposals for the memorial, to those buried in Memorial Plot Z1, will go on public view for the first time next week. Artist Chris Wilson will present his plans at
26/05/2017
A new development has opened in Dublin to help disabled people live independently. The Lodge in Balbriggan is part of the Prosper Group. Minister for Disabilities Finian McGrath TD said: "Innovative facilities such as The Lodge allow people with a disability to live independent lives, exercise gre
26/05/2017
Fianna Fail has hit out at the Transport Minister after he allocated €1 million for preliminary works on the M20 motorway project between Cork and Limerick. TD for Cork East, Kevin O'Keeffe said sanctioning €1m is an attempt by Minister Shane Ross to deflect away from the abject failure of the curr
26/05/2017
Sinn Fein has said the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme in Northern Ireland has had a "corrosive effect in public confidence". The scheme could cost the public purse around £490 million. MLA Máirtín Ó Muilleoir said Economy Minister Simon Hamilton paid little heed to his appeals throu
26/05/2017
The Housing Minister has been accused of "failing families" after figures revealed a rise in homelessness. The latest figures showed that 4,972 adults and 2,708 children are living in emergency accommodation, according to data from the Department of Housing. Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó B
26/05/2017
An electricity generator in L'Derry which was daubed with graffiti has been transformed. Pupils from St Patrick's Primary School pupils teamed up with artist Joseph Campbell to create the artwork depicting sports and community activities that take place in the local area. Funding was allocated by
25/05/2017
Fianna Fail has repeated its call to the government to provide funding for the M20 motorway between Cork and Limerick. Cork North West TD, Michael Moynihan said there has been "much noise" about the possible re-routing of the motorway via Tipperary, as a spur off the M8, to reduce the overall costs
25/05/2017
Over 70 properties in Dublin have been connected to new watermains. 40 properties on Pearse Brothers Park, Ballyboden, and 31 on Limekiln Road, Greenhills, were connected to improve the water quality and security of the water supply for residents. Irish Water invested €215,000 in the project which
25/05/2017
The Labour Party said it is a "disgrace" that the Housing Minister has not produced a vacant homes strategy. Spokesperson on Housing and Children and Youth Affairs, Jan O'Sullivan TD, hit out at Minister Simon Coveney after over 10 homeless families were sent to Garda stations because there was no
25/05/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at a number of bin companies who are continuing to breach their government agreement on pay by weight. Mr Dessie Ellis TD said companies are disregarding the agreement made last summer and slammed the Taoiseach after he confirmed the issue has not been discussed at Cabinet mee
25/05/2017
A full list of firms receiving support payments under the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme has been published. The Department for the Economy published the list on Wednesday, 24 May. It also said the list "does not imply wrongdoing by any of the beneficiaries". Publication of the lis
25/05/2017
Sinn Féin has called on the government to accept that its housing policy is "failing". Spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD made the call after it was revealed that the outgoing Taoiseach's legacy after six years in office is a 300% increase in child homelessness. He also said the govt should "urgently"
25/05/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney after his plans revealed that it would take up to four years to build 500 new homes in Ireland. Spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD confirmed the revelation was contained in a letter from the Department of Housing. Deputy Ó Broin said: "The first st
25/05/2017
The government has no provisions put in place for flood relief measures in the Upper Shannon area, according to Sinn Fein. Agriculture spokesperson and TD for Sligo, Leitrim, West Cavan, and South Donegal Martin Kenny was speaking after a parliament question to Minister Seán Canney revealed that th
24/05/2017
Work on a £55 million dualling scheme in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council area is expected to be completed next month. The A26 Frosses Road Dualling project will see significant benefits for both the local community and commuters by improving both journey times and journey time reliabilit
24/05/2017
Construction work has started to develop new social homes for Clanmil Housing in Lisburn. The development, on the site of a former public car park and vacant garage building close to Lisburn City Centre, will provide 36 apartments and is due for completion at the end of 2018. 32 of the apartment
24/05/2017
The Government has been called to urgently address water quality issues in Ireland. The Green Party made the call after a report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed six locations in Ireland failed to meet minimum EU water quality standards, leaving bathers at risk of illness. Gre
24/05/2017
The Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations (NIFHA) has announced it is to host a Development and Asset Management conference and exhibition at St George's Market in Belfast. The event is the first of its kind in NI and is to take place on Wednesday, 14 June. It will combine a wide var
24/05/2017
Sinn Fein has raised concerns after a number of small businesses have been hit with rate increases of between 50% and 100%. Spokesperson on Local Government, Eoin Ó Broin TD, is calling for the upcoming Commercial Rates Bill to be "overhauled". Deputy Ó Broin said: "Rate revaluations are currently
24/05/2017
Work on a new storm sewer for the newly developed Windsor Park Stadium and Olympia Leisure Centre in Belfast has been completed two weeks ahead of schedule. NI Water said the work will also improve the sewerage infrastructure in the area, increasing the capacity of the existing combined sewers, par
24/05/2017
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is to launch a new programme aimed to improve energy performance in homes. As many as one million homes built in the last century are considered to be significantly energy inefficient. The programme 'Towards Zero' will launch on 21 June at the Na
24/05/2017
Dublin City Council and Housing Minister Simon Coveney are being urged to review their decision to use warehouses for homeless people. Sinn Fein Cllr Larry O'Toole made the call after opposing the proposed use of the former Bargaintown warehouse in Coolock for homeless families. He said: "This pro
23/05/2017
A housebuilder in Northern Ireland is to develop almost 80 homes in Ballyclare, Co Antrim. Hagan Homes has started construction work on the £9.5million development on the Fairview Farm Road. The project, which includes 78 homes, is expected to take up to four years to complete. Approximately 50 c
23/05/2017
The Green Party has hit out at the Government over tackling climate change. Leader Eamon Ryan TD accused the Govt of being "clueless" after Ireland was "named and shamed" at the Fossil Fuel Subsidy Awards ceremony in Brussels. He said: "We need to shut down peat power stations as soon as possible,
23/05/2017
A new interceptor sewer is to be developed to connect Newbridge to the Osberstown Wastewater Treatment Plant in Co Kildare. Irish Water is making significant progress on the Upper Liffey Valley Sewerage Scheme Contract. As soon as the proposed project is complete it will facilitate increased flow
23/05/2017
ESB has launched public tours of the Ardnacrusha Power Station in Co Clare. The energy firm first began facilitating tours from the general public in June 1928 and welcomed over 85,000 visitors within the first nine months. To mark the 90th anniversary of its foundation, ESB is running dedicated
23/05/2017
The Government is being urged to ensure that the recommendations made by the Moore Street Consultative Group are implemented without any further delay. Sinn Féin deputy leader, Mary Lou McDonald TD, said the recommendations will preserve this historic battlefield site in Dublin. She said: "It is i
23/05/2017
The public are being urged to attend a public consultation event to discuss the proposed upgrade at the former grounds of the Immaculate Conception College in the Waterside area of L'Derry. The event is being held at Hillcrest House in Jasmine Court on Monday, 12 June. The proposed works include a
23/05/2017
A number of infrastructure projects are to take place in the Newry and Down area over the next year, it has been confirmed. The Department of Infrastructure said the work will include Fountain Street widening in Downpatrick, Collin's Corner junction in Downpatrick and the extension of the Park and
23/05/2017
Work has been completed on a redevelopment project in Donaghmore, Co Tyrone. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive invested almost £18,900 in the scheme on Lismore Drive. The work included a seated area with new flower beds and raised planters developed with timber sleepers and a wide variety of
23/05/2017
Sinn Fein MLA Jenna Dolan is to host the launch of a new book aimed at the dangers of fracking. 'Frackopoly' by Wenonah Hauter will launch at the Westville Hotel, Enniskillen on Sunday, 11 June. The Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA said: "In many ways, fracking looms as the environmental issue of our ti
23/05/2017
Construction work is to begin on a £125,000 road scheme in Bangor, Co Down. Improvement work on the Balloo road will start on Monday, 29 May. The resurfacing scheme will improve the strength and surface quality of the carriageway on an 800m section of this important C class link road on the outski
22/05/2017
Work is to start to restore parts of the Mourne Wall in Co Down. NI Water is currently in talks with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to repair a 2.5km section of the Mourne Wall between Slieve Loughshannagh and Slieve Meelmore which is surrounded by NI Water land. The first phase of
22/05/2017
A boil water notice has been put in place in Millstreet, Ballydaly, Laght, Drishane and Keale in Co Cork. Irish Water issued the notice following the detection of low levels of cryptosporidium. Irish Water has identified this as a vulnerable supply due to the lack of adequate treatment and has bee
22/05/2017
Building work has started on a new £1.7million Choice Housing project in Co Antrim. The homes in Glenavy are expected to be completed in March 2018. The Main Street scheme will provide 16 new homes in the village comprising of 12 houses and four apartments. The development will accommodate up to 6
22/05/2017
Mid and East Antrim Borough has launched its 'Live Here Love Here' small grants scheme aimed at improving the environment. Organisations are being called to aplly for the scheme which is running in partnership with local councils, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Choice
22/05/2017
An application has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála for the proposed Douglas Flood Relief Scheme. Cork Council is seeking approval for the plans which includes flood relief works along and/or adjacent to and/or in the vicinity of the following watercourses: • The Ballybrack Stream (Douglas River
22/05/2017
A secondary school in Co Tipperary has won the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) One Good Idea competition for their campaign 'Wattaware'. Ursuline Secondary School in Thurles were one of 20 finalists to reach the SEAI One Good Idea National Finals, which took place at Croke Park Co
22/05/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at Fianna Fail for opposing its amendment to extend Metro North to Balbriggan. TD for Dublin Fingal Louise O'Reilly expressed disappointment and said the extension would decrease traffic congestion and reduce pollution. Deputy O'Reilly said: "During the debates on the Bill, I
22/05/2017
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross T.D, has awarded funding to a number of greenway projects in Ireland. Minister Ross confirmed funding has been allocated for the Galway to Dublin Greenway to progress elements of the Greenway in Counties Kildare and Meath. He also secured mo
22/05/2017
Farmers have raised concerns over incurring penalties to their farm payments as a result of fires that were illegally started on other farms and which spread to their land. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, called on the Minister of State for Food, Forestry & Horticultur
22/05/2017
The Green Party has welcomed plans to include an extra 500 homes in development proposals for the Poolbeg SDZ in Dublin. The party also secured agreement for 5% of the development to be designated for cultural and artistic purposes, for the Dublin Bikes to be installed and for room for a Luas expan
19/05/2017
A total of 900 social and affordable homes are to be built in the Poolbeg development plan. Dublin City Council voted in favour of the plan at a meeting on Thursday, 18 May. Sinn Fein Councillor Daithi Doolan said the decision was a "good outcome". He said: "Sinn Fein proposed a further 100 senio
19/05/2017
Construction work has been completed on the new Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex. Contractors McLaughlin & Harvey officially handed over the keys of the new development to the Western Trust. The new facilities include 40 single en-suite bedrooms for in-patients, including separate areas for
19/05/2017
The Government is being urged to increase its investment in wastewater treatment to prevent massive EU fines. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Water Eoin Ó Broin made the call following European Commission's decision in February to launch court proceedings against the state for breaching the Urban Waste W
19/05/2017
A Labour motion has passed to postpone the sale of AIB shares. The party is calling for the proceeds to be invested in developing homes, hospitals, schools and public transport. Labour leader Brendan Howlin TD said the Government must now shelve their plans to begin the sale of AIB shares, and ins
19/05/2017
Gas supplier Firmus Energy has been awarded the Silver CORE accreditation by Business in the Community. CORE is Business in the Community's framework for identifying and measuring corporate responsibility activity and performance across organisations. Niall Martindale, Director of regulation and
19/05/2017
Serious concerns have been raised in relation to the over grounding of the North-South Interconnector. Sinn Féin TD for Meath West Peadar Tóibín TD expressed disappointment regarding the varying stance that Fine Gael TD Regina Doherty has been taking on the issue. He said he is "troubled" by Deput
19/05/2017
The Green Party has called on the Government to address water quality issues after six locations in Ireland failed to meet minimum EU water quality standards. Leader Eamon Ryan made the announcement following the publication of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Bathing Water Quality repor
19/05/2017
Construction work has started on a new play park in Co L'Derry. The play area, which is located within Ballyarnett Country Park, will contain three different zones with large scale timber play equipment for toddlers, children and older children all enclosed within a 2.4m high mesh fence. The schem
19/05/2017
A Portadown building contractor has been ordered to serve 12 months in prison for the manslaughter of an employee who fell from a roof in Co Armagh, the Court of Appeal ruled on Thursday, 18 May. Mr Norman McKenzie admitted the manslaughter of Petyo Hristanov on 20 January 2015. The Director of Pu
19/05/2017
A Co Down restaurant has become the first commercial energy user to connect to the Phoenix Natural Gas network. The Parson's Nose restaurant in Hillsborough signed up as part of the firm's major extension programme into thirteen new towns across Co Down. The project will see an additional 28,000 c
18/05/2017
A new water treatment plant is to be developed in Kingscourt, Co Cavan. Irish Water is investing €3 million in the project which includes a new storage reservoir at the existing Kingscourt Water Treatment Plant site. An off-site well will also be developed at Descart, Co Monaghan, which will suppl
18/05/2017
Cork County Council has selected Atkins Consulting Engineers to complete the detail design stage for the Carrigaline Relief Road scheme. The road, which is located a short distance west of Carrigaline Main Street, will allow traffic bypass the town centre. The new road will also facilitate the ex
18/05/2017
The Considerate Constructors Scheme has launched its first registered site in Ireland. The scheme has signed up its first contractor to register projects in Ireland - family owned John Sisk & Son - a member of the international construction company, SISK Group. The first registered Irish site is l
18/05/2017
NIE Networks has launched a new campaign reminding anglers across Northern Ireland to 'look up and look out' for overhead electricity equipment before they start fishing. FishSafe 2017 aims to encourage all anglers to put safety first. Hal Steele, Safety Engineer at NIE Networks, said: "Everyone s
18/05/2017
SIPTU the union and the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) have announced an agreement to secure payment for two hours "greasing time" per day for crane drivers from Monday, 05 June. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Martin Meere, said: "The agreement sees the restoration of payment for greasing time and
18/05/2017
Europe's first purpose built '3D Textbook' Building has officially opened in Dublin. The original boiler house, which served the residents of the old Ballymun Flats for many years, has been refurbished following an application from Dublin City Council and The Rediscovery Centre to the EU's LIFE+ Pr
18/05/2017
Fianna Fail has been accused of "abandoning" rural Ireland. Sinn Fein TD Martin Kenny confirmed he was informed Fianna Fail will not support his Rural Equality Bill. He said: "This directly contradicts everything that party likes to say about defending rural Ireland. "The reality is that Fianna F
18/05/2017
A housing association in Northern Ireland has scooped a prestigious award at the first ever National Government Opportunities (GO) Excellence in Public Procurement Awards. Clanmil Housing Group's Procurement team won the Sustainable Procurement Award. Organised by Procurex Ireland, the GO Awards w
18/05/2017
Sinn Fein has hit out at the Junior Agriculture Minister over excluding illegally burnt land from farmers' Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) applications. Agriculture spokesperson Martin Kenny TD said Minister Andrew Doyle is threatening farmers with penalties if burnt land is included on their applicatio
18/05/2017
The European Parliament has called for a 50% reduction in food waste by 2030. A total of 30% of food waste currently goes to landfill and almost 10% of families are facing food poverty. Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan welcomed the adoption of the Food Waste Report in the European Parliament which calls
17/05/2017
Dawson WAM is to start work on a flood alleviation project for NI Water. The work, which will begin at the start of June, will take place on the Upper Newtownards Road / Knock Road area of east Belfast. The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2018. It will involve the upgrade of existi
17/05/2017
A swimming prohibition notice which has been in place in Co Clare since December last year has now been lifted. Irish Water and Clare County Council has completed repair and upgrade work at the town's wastewater pumping station. The Do Not Swim notice was issued as a precautionary measure followin
17/05/2017
Serious concerns have been raised after a number of trees and fish were found dead at the Woodburn reservoir catchment area, near Carrickfergus in County Antrim. Alliance East Antrim MLA, Stewart Dickson, has written to NI Water and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to request action and call
17/05/2017
Planning permission has been given for the redevelopment of the Movie House Cinema on Belfast's Dublin Road. The Planning Committee has approved plans for "the single biggest office block ever to be built in the city centre". Named One Bankmore Square, it will be a 12-storey, 23,000 square metre
17/05/2017
Sinn Féin is calling on the Government to bring forward regulations to close the 'Airbnb loophole' that enables Airbnb hosts to use properties as full-time B&Bs. Spokesperson on Housing, Eoin Ó Broin, said renting out a room in your home for a weekend is entirely different to renting out your entir
17/05/2017
Funding has been increased for environment projects in Ireland. Denis Naughten, T.D, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, has allocated funding of €460,000 to this year's scheme - an increase of 15% on funding in 2016. Minister Naughten stated: "I am delighted to announce t
17/05/2017
The Green Party has called on the Government to do more to protect people who have lost their jobs at Bord na Mona. Leader Eamon Ryan TD has called for a new 'Just Transition' Commission to be set up to ensure a far transition to a low-carbon economy. He said: "As Ireland's economy inevitably chan
17/05/2017
A decision for temporary accommodation for Coachford College in Cork is currently under consideration, the Minister for Skills and Education has confirmed. Mr Richard Bruton also said the college's building project is included in its Six Year Construction Programme. However, Fianna Fáil TD for Cor
17/05/2017
Fine Gael believes Ireland "should take a leaf out of Norway's books" to encourage drivers to use and buy electric cars. Dublin Senator, Catherine Noone, said life expectancy is being reduced by nine months due to the ingestion of toxic fumes from petrol and diesel vehicles. Senator Noone said: "A
17/05/2017
Savills Ireland has launched a new venture to help growing businesses find flexible, co-working and serviced office space across Ireland. Workthere is a new brokerage service and website listing platform - workthere.com - combining technological experience with personal advice. Workthere offers a p
16/05/2017
The Government has been accused of "not moving fast enough" in bringing empty homes back into use in Ireland. Labour Housing spokesperson, Jan O'Sullivan TD, also hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney for not publishing the Vacant Homes Strategy. She said: "Ireland has a much higher rate of em
16/05/2017
Dublin City Council has launched a new design to rejuvenate College Green. Designed by Dixon Jones/Paul Keogh Architects, the newly shaped College Green development will be a 7,300 sq metre area for people to enjoy in the heart of the city centre. The tree-lined and granite-paved space has also
16/05/2017
A leisure centre in west Belfast has closed for redevelopment work. Belfast City Council is investing £25million in the Andersonstown Leisure Centre, which is expected to open in summer 2019. Members of the centre can use the facilities at other leisure centres in the city at no extra cost. The p
16/05/2017
Construction work has started to develop a new play park in Brandywell, Co L'Derry. The new play provision will be located on the former Brandywell civic amenity site on the Lone Moor Road. The scheme is jointly funded from the Social Investment Fund (SIF) which is part of the Executive's Deliveri
16/05/2017
Over €100,000 funding is being allocated to four Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs). The money, under the Innovation fund, will provide AHBs with the means to test innovative ideas on new funding structures and to build capacity. The four eligible proposals received were submitted by the Irish Council
16/05/2017
Fianna Fail has slammed Housing Minister Simon Coveney for refusing to consider a new Affordable Housing Purchase Scheme. Housing Spokesperson Barry Cowen TD said the housing crisis needs a step change in energy and commitment from Government. He said: "Publicly, Minister Coveney has said that he
16/05/2017
Housing Association Choice and Bryson FutureSkills have launched an new programme aimed at boosting skills and helping people into employment. The first phase of the six-month WorkChoice scheme will see eight tenants gain a recognised OCR qualification while taking up paid roles within Choice's Pro
16/05/2017
Work to develop a new swimming pool in Cork has been completed. Former Labour Party TD for Cork South-West, Michael McCarthy, has welcomed the official opening of the Dunmanway Swimming Pool. He said: "The proposals for the new pool were developed some time ago and it is good to see these plans fi
16/05/2017
Sinn Fein has slammed Housing Minister Simon Coveney's plan to have 65,000 families on HAP tenancies by 2021. Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD described it as a "bad policy" and "bad for the taxpayer". He was commenting after a report by the Simon communities revealed that 88% of 600 rental pr
16/05/2017
A tender has been issued for the appointment of a contractor on the construction of Dublin's tallest office building - THE EXO. Savills and CBRE have been instructed to seek pre-letting agreements with tenants. At 73 metres high, THE EXO could accommodate up to 2,000 office workers. 350 jobs are e
15/05/2017
Fianna Fáil has hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney after he put forward a major error in the 'Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016'. Spokesperson on Urban Renewal and Housing Pat Casey TD said the "major blunder" will force developers to cease construction on
15/05/2017
The Labour Party is calling for a functioning housing market in Cork. A public meeting will be held to discuss the issue of housing in the area at 7pm in the Imperial Hotel on Monday, 15 May. Ciarán Lynch, former TD for Cork South Central and Chairperson of the Banking Inquiry, commented: "The hou
15/05/2017
Serious concerns have been raised over illegal dumping in Ireland. Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Niamh Smyth, said rubbish is continuing to be left in public parks, beside lakes and on roadsides throughout Cavan and Monaghan. The Communications Minister launched the 2017 anti-dumping initiati
15/05/2017
Energy firm ESB Networks has announced it is using Oracle technology to deliver a reliable electricity supply to all domestic and commercial premises. The firm has chosen Oracle SuperCluster and Oracle Utilities Network Management System (NMS) to manage Ireland's electricity in real time and to fa
15/05/2017
Irish Water has imposed water restrictions for residents in Inis Mór due to the unseasonably dry weather conditions. The restrictions will be in place from 11pm to 7am daily starting today, 15 May. Working in partnership with Galway County Council, Irish Water is asking people supplied by these pu
15/05/2017
EirGrid has announced it has achieved the Business Working Responsibly Mark. The Mark is operated by Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI), the non-profit organisation dedicated to sustainability and it is third-party audited by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). In addition,
15/05/2017
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has invest over £17,000 to install a new community garden in the Leckagh Drive area of Magherafelt. The Ground Maintenance Team covering the South Region completed the landscaping which has renovated the area. The garden has a paved area as well as var
15/05/2017
Sinn Féin has condemned a fuel laundering incident at Belregan in Co Louth. Five containers of diesel sludge were abandoned in the area and Gerry Adams TD is urging anyone with information to contact An Garda Síochána. He said: "The Gardaí and customs have made enormous progress in the last year i
12/05/2017
A new wastewater treatment plant has opened in Kinvara, Co Galway. Irish Water invested €5.1 million in the Kinvara Wastewater Treatment Plant. Works on the scheme involved the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant and upgrades to the Kinvara wastewater collection network. Kinvara was o
12/05/2017
Clearpath Finance has secured at least £30 million for green energy projects in Northern Ireland. The Green Energy Fund will be available for new and existing wind farms and anaerobic digester businesses and projects. Conor Devine MRICS of Clearpath Finance said: "We are committed to helping green
12/05/2017
Vayu Energy has launched a new initiative to allow energy users achieve cost savings. The Vayu Energy Fund permits users to invest in energy related projects through upgrading dated facilities, machinery or technology across all areas of the business. In recent studies the misuse of energy throug
12/05/2017
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has given the go-ahead for construction work to start on four safety road improvement schemes. The projects will take place on the N70 Kilderry Bends, N56 Coolboy to Kilmcrennan, N2 Monaghan to Emyvale (Phase 3) and the N61 Coolteige. Minister for Transport,
12/05/2017
Housing Minister Simon Coveney has been called to "urgently review" his action plan to tackle the current housing crisis in Ireland. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin said the Minister was "hiding from opposition questions" after he failed to attend in the Dáil chamber during Promised
12/05/2017
Congress and union SIPTU are to launch an initiative on the current housing and homeless emergency on Monday, 15 May. The document will be launched by Congress General Secretary, Patricia King and SIPTU General President, Jack O'Connor. The proposals would double current annual planned public hous
12/05/2017
The Government is being urged to "seriously up its game" by investing in transport infrastructure. Fianna Fail made the call to Transport Minister Shane Ross and also asked him to prioritise the upgrade of the N11 / M11 to alleviate the traffic congestion between Wexford and Dublin. TD for Wexford
12/05/2017
A total of €400,000 has been allocated to redevelop a castle in Carlingford, Co Louth. The funding for King John's Castle has been secured through Fáilte Ireland's Capital Grants Allocation for 2017 to the Office of Public Works (OPW). Fine Gael TD for Louth, Peter Fitzpatrick, welcomed the announ
11/05/2017
Construction work on the Sligo City Watermain Rehabilitation and Pearse Road Sewer Network Project is due to completed by May 2018. Significant progress is being made on the project which involves the replacement and rehabilitation of ageing watermains, installation of new sewers and replacement of
11/05/2017
Eirgrid has reported a rise in electricity demand across Ireland. The report, 'Generation Capacity Statement 2017 - 2026', predicts growth in demand of 17% on the island over the next 10 years. This contrasts with a fall in demand at the start of the decade in Ireland and Northern Ireland, and fl
11/05/2017
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is being urged to improve its communication with residents over the flood relief project in Bandon, Cork. Fianna Fail made the call after being told that both the OPW, and the contractor, WBL, have agreed to a number of measures to help keep the community, affected
11/05/2017
Fine Gael is urgently calling for a temporary water treatment plant to be developed in south Sligo after the current water services at Lough Taalt "fall short" of treating drinking water for the potential risk of cryptosporidium contamination. Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Tony McLoughlin, confir
11/05/2017
The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment has been informed of the "deep anger" among the Bord na Móna (BNM) Group of Unions over threats by the firm to close its peat briquette plant in Littleton, County Tipperary. Minister Denis Naughten met with representatives from the BNM
11/05/2017
A water restriction has been put in place in Tully and Letterfrack. Irish Water made the announcement due to the unseasonably dry weather conditions resulting in historically low water levels for this time of year. The utility is imposing water restrictions on the schemes from 11pm to 7am, effect
11/05/2017
Almost 10% of households in Ireland are living in overcrowded accommodation, according to data from the CSO. The figures represent a 28% increase on census results from 2011. Sinn Fein has called on Housing Minister Simon Coveney to outline what he intends to do to tackle the growing problem. Spo
11/05/2017
SDLP MLA Nichola Mallon has been re-elected as the Chair of the NI Assembly All Party Group on Housing. The All Party Group, which is made up of MLAs from all parties and is supported by Radius Housing, brings together politicians and representatives from the private housing sector, housing associa
10/05/2017
One of Northern Ireland's largest homebuilders has appointed a new Director of Construction. Hagan Homes has selected Trevor Kennedy who will oversee and direct construction projects from inception to completion. He will also ensure all onsite and offsite work is completed to the highest standards
10/05/2017
Plans to restore College Green in Dublin have been welcomed by the Green Party. The proposals include a car-free plaza with a central fountain. Chair of the Council's Transportation Strategic Policy Committee Ciaran Cuffe, said: "This civic plaza with new trees, seating and a fountain will be attr
10/05/2017
Irish Water has invested €700,000 to replace ageing watermains at Drumure on the R194 from Killoe to Ballinalee and at Ballymakeegan North on the N4. The scheme will replace 1.3kms of ageing watermains from Killoe to Ballinalee and 4kms at Ballymakeegan North. Work will commence on site in June.
10/05/2017
The overall average house price in Northern Ireland has risen slightly in the last quarter, according to a new report. According to the Ulster University's latest Quarterly House Price Index report prices are less than 0.5% over the quarter. The University research indicates that the volume of hou
10/05/2017
A planning application is to be submitted for improvement works at the Kilmacrenan Wastewater Treatment Plant in Donegal. If the scheme is approved, the project will involve the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant allowing the existing plant, which is operating above its capacity, to b
10/05/2017
Serious concerns have been raised after Louth experienced the highest quarterly rent increase in Leinster in the last year of 4.3% and a year-on-year increase of 13.3%. Sinn Féin Louth TD Gerry Adams said "average rents have soared to a new record high". He continued: "In its snapshot of rents, Lo
10/05/2017
Plans are to be submitted to upgrade the existing sewer network serving Blanchardstown and surrounding catchment areas in Dublin, Meath and Kildare. Irish Water expected to invest around €50 million in the project. The proposed scheme will be located along the Tolka River Valley in Blanchardstown
10/05/2017
Sinn Féin is calling for a group to be established to oversee the restoration of the Moore Street battlefield site in Dublin. Spokesperson on Heritage, Peadar Tóibín TD, was speaking following the implementation of the Moore Street Report. Deputy Tóibín said: "The Moore Street Report was a docume
09/05/2017
An Irish energy firm has begun supplying energy from five new windfarms to power over 36,000 homes. The windfarms are located at Longmountain and Glenbuck in County Antrim and Altamuskin, Eshmore and Gortfinbar in County Tyrone. Energia said the new facilities will generate a combined total of 73M
09/05/2017
Funding has been approved for the development of a walking trail at Balix Hill, Plumbridge. Derry City and Strabane District Council agreed to commit £31,000 in match funding towards the project as well as £125,000 match funding for the development of a new woodland trail in Donemana. Outlining to
09/05/2017
Rents are at a record high across Ireland, according to new figures from Daft.ie. The report shows that the average rent now stands at €1,131, with Dublin rents up 13.9% year on year. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing, Eoin Ó Broin TD, called on the Minster for Housing Simon Coveney to conduct an
09/05/2017
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has launched its 14th annual energy awards. The awards recognise and reward excellence in energy efficiency and renewable energy and are open to organisations, businesses or communities who are setting new standards in the reduction of fossil fuel
09/05/2017
Fine Gael has called on the public not to start gorse fires after three separate incidents caused damage to wildlife. TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Tony McLoughlin, confirmed it took four stations of the Sligo fire brigade to bring the gorse fire at Killerry mountain on the Sligo-Leitrim border under contr
09/05/2017
Fianna Fail is calling for a motorway to be developed between Cork and Limerick. The party said it is "crucial" to realising the economic potential of Munster. Cork North West TD, Aindrias Moynihan, also said those suggesting that the M20 motorway project between Cork and Limerick should be replac
09/05/2017
The Green Party is urging the Transport Minister to release further funding to extend the cycleway project in Dublin. The party made the call after the first phase of the Sutton to Sandycove (S2S) promenade and cycleway in Dublin officially opened on Friday, 05 May. Green Party Spokesperson for Tr
09/05/2017
The National Oversight Audit Commission (NOAC) has claimed that local authorities may be purposely delaying the refurbishment of vacant houses until they become eligible for government funding. The study found that only 15 authorities have ever carried out a condition survey of their housing stock
09/05/2017
Labour has expressed disappointment over further delays for a new civic plaza at College Green in Dublin. Spokesperson for Dublin, Senator Kevin Humphreys, made the announcement after the application to An Bord Pleanála means there is no certainty that the proposals will proceed. Senator Humphreys
09/05/2017
Fianna Fáil has issued a warning that improved signing and lining will not be enough to bring the N24 Tower Road Junction in Carlow up to standard. However, TD for Carlow – Kilkenny Bobby Aylward has welcomed the increased urgency being placed on the implementation of safety measures at the junctio
08/05/2017
Work is continuing to draw up proposals for a new greenway to be built near L'Derry. Councillors have granted approval to allocate £5,350 towards progressing the development of a 'Masterplan' for the Clooney Greenway. A design team will now be commissioned to develop a new high quality greenway tha
08/05/2017
More than 30 heritage projects in Waterford have secured finance from the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Structures at Risk Fund. Announcing the investment, Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphries TD, said that over €250,000 will be allocated in A
08/05/2017
A new initiative has been unveiled to help boost the technical skills base of Ireland's manufacturing sector. The partnership between Siemens and Engineers Ireland will see Siemens certified training (SITRAIN) delivered to manufacturers in the Life Sciences, Food & Beverages and general industrial
08/05/2017
Sinn Féin has slammed the attendance figures of deputies to the Oireachtas Housing Committee. Spokesperson on Housing, Eoin Ó Broin, said attendance to the Committee is "very poor", with less than half of members present much of the time. Speaking as Sinn Féin published attendance figures for the
08/05/2017
Work has started on a £250,000 footway and carriageway resurfacing scheme in Belfast. The project will see the surface quality of Onslow Parade greatly improved and work is scheduled for completion by mid-July 2017. To carry out the work safely, a full road closure will be in place between 8am and
08/05/2017
Fianna Fáil has hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney over his "bluster" on social housing investment. Spokesperson on Housing, Barry Cowen, was commenting after receiving capital budget figures from the Department of Housing which show that aggregate capital spending in 2016 was 65% below the
05/05/2017
Plans to develop a residential development in Skeoge, L'Derry, have been approved. The 115-home development also includes an urban park, open space and landscaping, and associated site works at lands at Galliagh, south of Skeoge Link Road, and north of 14-19 Lower Galliagh Road. Chairman of the Pl
05/05/2017
Bord na Móna has confirmed it is to close its briquette production plant in Littleton, Co Tipperary. The plant will close next April with the loss of 69 permanent jobs. However, the firm said its plant in Derrinlough, Co Offaly, is to remain open. Fianna Fail TD Barry Cowen said the announcement
05/05/2017
A total of €24 million has been allocated for the return of over 1,400 vacant local authority properties to be put into productive use this year. Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government Simon Coveney, TD, said the move is a continuation of the Government's commitment under th
05/05/2017
Capital funds are to be released for the delivery of the Ebrington Greenway in L'Derry. The proposals are part of the wider North West Multi-Modal Transport Hub project. The project will promote cross-border intermodal and sustainable mobility in the North-West region, which will assist residents
05/05/2017
A Northern Ireland Housing Association has announced plans to set up a new limited company to manage maintenance and repairs on over 4,000 social homes. The move will see building, plumbing, electrical and other maintenance services delivered under the Choice brand. The new direct services organis
05/05/2017
Landlords in Northern Ireland who registered with the Landlord Registration Scheme are being urged to renew their registration. The scheme was introduced in February 2014 and the period of registration lasts for three years. Landlords who registered with the scheme in 2014 will need to check when
05/05/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald over her refusal to confirm when the Government will roll out its new model of 'affordable' rental housing. Housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD said: "There are a growing number of working individuals and families who are not eligible for social
05/05/2017
Fianna Fail has hit out at the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment and is calling for him to start delivering on his promises and work harder to protect post offices, and deliver broadband far quicker. Spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Timmy Doo
04/05/2017
Residents in Dublin have raised serious concerns after seeing "clouds of steam" billowing from the Poolbeg Incinerator during test firing. The Green Party has called for comprehensive real-time data on the incinerator to be made to the public. Party leader Eamon Ryan TD said: "The concerns show th
04/05/2017
Residents living on the Aran Islands are being urged to conserve water due to the dry weather conditions resulting in historically low water levels on the island for this time of year. Irish Water confirmed it will also be imposing planned water restrictions on Inis Oirr between 11pm to 7am daily o
04/05/2017
One in four skin cancer deaths in Ireland are from the construction and farming sectors. The Irish Cancer Society has partnered with the Irish Farmer's Association and the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) to spread the SunSmart message. The Irish Cancer Society said that almost 23% of skin c
04/05/2017
A total of €12 million is to be invested to regenerate Navan. Meath County Council recently published the details of its 'Navan 2030 Plan' which includes proposals to make the town more pedestrian/cyclist friendly, as well as linking the historic and modern quarters. Fianna Fáil TD for Meath West
04/05/2017
Over 430 schools in Ireland are to undergo improvements after the Department of Education allocated €47 million through the summer works scheme. Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, confirmed the money will help a total of 438 schools throughout Ireland. He said: "This investment
04/05/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney after he claimed that 14,932 new homes were built last year, which a number of experts have disputed. Spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin TD also accused the Government of "digging its heels" on the issue of inaccurate house build completion data. He
04/05/2017
The Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation has been slammed over her failure to secure tenants at the Fermoy Business and Technology Park, which has been idle for over 15 years. Fianna Fail Cork East TD, Kevin O'Keefe, was commenting following his attempts to highlight the issue of the Enterp
04/05/2017
The Government has once again been called to invest in new transport infrastructure in Dublin. Fianna Fail spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD, made the comments after receiving new information which revealed that aggravated congestion in the greater Dublin area is currently costing the economy
03/05/2017
The Irish Greyhound Board, Bord na gCon, has accepted an offer from the Department of Education and Skills to acquire the former Greyhound Stadium at Harold's Cross in Dublin, subject to standard approvals required. The acquisition will also be subject to the satisfactory completion of the conveyan
03/05/2017
A boil water notice that has been in place for over five years in Co Tipperary has been lifted. Irish Water invested €3 million in upgrade works in the Temple-Etney area and around 20 customers an now resume normal use of the water supply for drinking, food preparation and brushing teeth. The lift
03/05/2017
Construction work on a new school extension in Dublin has been completed. Minister for Education & Skills, Richard Bruton TD officially opened the extension at Mount Carmel Secondary School on Tuesday, 02 May. The Department of Education and Skills provided over €950,000 which includes five classr
03/05/2017
Work on a £60,000 resurfacing project in Toomebridge is to begin on Friday, 05 May. The work will be carried out on the A6 Hillhead Road at The Elk Bar & Restaurant. It will extend for a distance of approximately 350 metres, from Blackpark Road to the Creagh Roundabout on the Toome Bypass. The wo
03/05/2017
Significant progress is being made on a sewerage improvement project at Castle Park Pumping station in Bangor. Dawson WAM was appointed by NI Water as the main contractor to carry out the work. The new pumping station forms part of a major capital works programme in the Bangor area to improve the
03/05/2017
The Government has been slammed over its failure to progress on flood relief schemes. Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Flood Relief Eugene Murphy accused the Govt of putting communities across the country "at risk". Thousands of families saw their homes, businesses and farms devastated by the storms du
02/05/2017
Construction work has started on the development of a new water treatment plant in Owenteskna in Donegal. Irish Water is working in partnership with Donegal County Council to carry out the scheme which will benefit almost 4,000 consumers in the South West Donegal area. David McLoone, Irish Water's
02/05/2017
Construction work on a £160 million scheme on the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson Dualling Scheme is to begin. Work will take place on the sections from Randalstown to Toome and from Moyola to Castledawson Roundabout. The project will deliver reductions in peak journey times by at least a quarter,
02/05/2017
Solar power is to be developed in four locations in Roscommon, Offaly and Kildare to provide renewable energy to power the equivalent of 150,000 homes, it has been announced. ESB and Bord na Móna have revealed a co-development agreement, which will access part of Bord na Móna's land bank in locatio
02/05/2017
The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Inquiry and Report into the Electricity Sector "completely vindicates the concerns raised at Stormont by the Ulster Unionist Party before the Executive fell", UUP Economy Spokeperson Alan Chambers MLA has said. Mr Chambers said: "The warnings we gave about the
02/05/2017
Over 60 Irish Water customers in Arlow have been connected to a new watermain. The ageing watermain in Ocean Crest was in a poor condition and 400 metres of a new water main have been installed to reduce leakage in the network. The €85,000 investment included the laying of a new watermain on the r
02/05/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling on the Government to address the "escalating" housing crisis in Ireland. Hundreds of people took part in a march in Dublin on Monday, urging the Govt to take action on housing. Housing Spokesperson Barry Cowen said: "Minister Coveney's record in delivering social and afforda
02/05/2017
Planning permission for a new water treatment plant to be developed at Lough Talt in Sligo have been rejected. Irish Water was due to carry out the improvements next year, however the project has been halted as a result of a ruling by An Bord Pleanála. Fianna Fáil TD for Sligo-Leitrim Eamon Scanlo
02/05/2017
Funding has been allocated to carry out works at two national schools in Donegal. SN na Carraige in Carrick has been given funding to carry out electrical works at the school. Further funding has also been released to St Peter's National School in Mountcharles to carry out external environmental im
