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AWARDS ISSUE

The Public Sector

MAGAZINE the magazine for public sector providers & decision makers

AWARDS ISSUE

In an increasingly crowded global marketplace, it can be difficult to stand out. Winning an award opens numerous doors and gives you instant credibility with potential customers. Third-party endorsements are critical. An award shows that an outside organisation has noticed the outstanding work your company does and believe it warrants recognition. The recognition of peers is important in any sector, but for one as vital as the Irish Public Sector, every accolade adds to a brand’s credibility. Corporate awards enhance a company’s reputation, help employees take pride in their work and instil confidence in customers about the quality and professionalism of an organisation. An award by any measure is a sign of excellence. This awards publication recognises excellence in business of key providers to the Irish Public Sector acknowledging the professionalism of companies that excel in what they do.

A Devlin Media production. While every effort has been made to make the information contained herein as comprehensive and accurate as possible, the publishers accept no responsibility for additions, omissions or errors. No part of this publication may be copied or used without the publishers consent.

Finance Minister Michael McGrath congratulates the Irish Heritage Council on their Public Body of the Year Award.

Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien congratulates Hughie McDonagh on his award for Commercial & Sustainable Building, Building a Better Galway.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Simon Harris congratulate Wicklow County Council on their Public Sector Magazine Award for best Library Services. Ireland has pledged to generate 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and Bord Na Móna is expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, including wind, solar, biomass and biogas to support this target. The company is a worthy recipient of the Excellence in Environmental & Sustainability Award for its outstanding contribution to climate action targets.

Multi award-winning Sigma Homes place the customer at the forefront of everything they do. With an enviable reputation in the industry and an outstanding aftercare service, the company are worthy recipients of the Public Sector Magazine Award for design and build solutions.

Founded in 2015, Bartra is a privately-owned international property company headquartered in Dublin. Bartra develops, manages, and invests to improve property and places to deliver sustainable commercial and social benefits.

Property Development Company of the Year Services Support Award

BARTRA Bartra is a development group focused on delivering and operating high-quality property solutions across all sectors of the market in Ireland and internationally, including social and private housing, commercial real estate, nursing homes and co-living. The firm has a multi-disciplinary team of thirty-five people in Dublin with over €2 billion of assets under management or development. Within the Bartra Group are several independent operating businesses in addition to the firm’s development portfolio. This includes Bartra Healthcare, a group of premium quality nursing homes and transitional care units, and Niche Living, Ireland’s largest co-living owner and operator. Bartra also has teams in sister

companies operating out of four offices across Asia, and the firm has established partnerships with a range of domestic and global investment partners. Bartra has all the in-house skills to complete complex, multi-use and large-scale developments, including legal, financing, construction, taxation, and planning. The firm’s expertise also extends to the operational skills required for nursing homes, social housing, and co-living, from the clinical care aspects to property management, marketing, and day-to-day operations. Key facts Bartra has more than €500 million of construction projects currently on site and in build across the social housing, healthcare

and commercial sectors, including The Sidings, Ireland’s first triple platinum sustainable office development in Dublin’s Docklands, and the O’Devaney Gardens redevelopment where 1,044 new A-rated social, affordable, cost rental and private homes will be delivered. Bartra will deliver three thousand new homes between now and 2030, primarily focusing on the continued delivery of sustainable social housing. Customer service overall is key at Bartra as CEO Mike Flannery explains: “We are very appreciative of the trust our clients place in us when they invest with Bartra and we aim to deliver every time.”

“We appreciate the trust our clients place in us when they invest with Bartra and we aim to deliver every time.”

Social & Private Housing: O’Devaney Gardens, Dublin 7

Niche Living: Dun Laoghaire The Sidings: Ireland’s first triple platinum office development in the heart of Dublin’s Docklands

Bartra will deliver three thousand new homes between now and 2030, with its primary focus on the continued delivery of sustainable social housing. 3

Energy complexities. Simplified.

With the largest dedicated energy legal practice in the Irish market, our track record, experience and deep resources allow us to support clients in the most complex and innovative transactions in the energy and infrastructure sector. Matheson, the law firm of choice for internationally-focussed companies and financial institutions doing business in and from Ireland. To learn more about how we can assist with your energy transactions, visit www.matheson.com

Dublin

Cork

London

New York

Palo Alto

San Francisco

Matheson LLP

Matheson LLP is an Irish law firm. Its primary focus is on serving the Irish legal needs of internationally focused companies and financial institutions doing business in and from Ireland.

Excellence in Public Sector Energy Support Services Ireland’s Top Energy Team

MATHESON LLP Matheson is headquartered in Dublin and has offices in Cork, London, New York, San Francisco and Palo Alto. The firm employs over 800 people across its six offices, including 122 partners and tax principals and over 540 legal, tax and digital services professionals. Matheson aim to build relationships such that clients instinctively turn to the firm for support on their most important assignments. Clients include the majority of the Fortune 100 companies, and the company advises seven of the top ten global technology brands, seven of the world’s ten largest asset managers, and over half of the world’s fifty largest banks. “We are committed to having a strong presence where our clients are located,” explains Partner, Garret Farrelly. “We were the first European law firm to establish a presence in Palo Alto (Silicon Valley) in 1996 and together with our New York and San

Francisco offices, we are proud to have the market-leading Irish presence in the US.” Matheson was also the first large Irish law firm to establish a permanent presence in London. In this important location, it has recently opened new, larger offices in the centre of the city. “Our overseas offices confirm both our commitment to our clients and our desire to be genuinely responsive to the needs of our clients wherever they are located,” Garret adds. In terms of practice areas, regulatory teams are consistently busy, as are employment and commercial litigation teams, similarly with the technology space and life sciences. The Energy area is exepriencing huge growth, and ESG in general continues to be a major growth area. Despite a challenging year in 2022 for the M&A market generally, Matheson’s corporate M&A team ended the year on a high, working on some of the most

high-profile transactions in the market and being ranked as the top Irish law firm for mergers and acquisitions by deal volume, in 2022. “We continue to have more Corporate M&A lawyers ranked by both Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 than any other Irish law firm,” Garret notes. When asked how Matheson differentiates itself to stand out from the competition, Garret responds simply with 'our values’. “At Matheson, we strive to make a meaningful contribution to our community, our clients, our people and our society. We take pride in what we do and consistently deliver excellent service. We invest in developing our people, we seek to give back to society and we are strong advocates for our economy. Our values are important to us and guide how we work together and with our clients.”

Environmental, Social and Governance Many clients are committed to growing their business as a force for good, caring for the people and the planet. Matheson's ESG Group provides an integrated approach to supporting clients in responding to legislative and regulatory change, delivering on their own ESG goals and meeting the challenges and opportunities in doing so. Chaired by Partner Garret Farrelly, a dedicated group of twelve partners, combines a solid collaborative focus with deep industry knowledge, providing ESG expertise in the following areas: • Investment funds - environmental and planning • Governance • Supply chain management • Employment practices • Data privacy • Sustainable finance • Sustainable commercial real estate • Sustainable construction • Climate action • Energy, natural resources and utilities • Waste and the circular economy “We are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our clients, and our Client Service Charter underlines that commitment, guiding how we approach our work and relationships,” Garret explains. “The Client Service Charter articulates what "client service excellence" means at Matheson. The Charter also details the mindset and behaviours required to ensure that our clients consistently receive a best-in-class, client-focused and value-adding experience throughout their entire journey with us.”

He goes on to describe how the firm differentiates itself from the competition in several key areas: Experienced Team - We are the law firm of choice for internationally focused companies doing business in and from Ireland. We make available to each of our clients a team of legal experts which is sensitive to the challenges of operating in multiple time zones. Industry Knowledge - Understanding our clients' technology, markets, business environment and strategic aims is our priority and is critical to allow us to deliver a first-class legal support. Our lawyers include the leading technology and business lawyers in the country. They are centrally involved with all relevant industry bodies. They also routinely work with peers in other jurisdictions and stay informed on developments in jurisdictions our clients emanate from.

Digital Services Group (DSG). All of our teams across the firm work closely with DSG on all transactions to ensure the most costeffective and efficient service delivery for clients.” Bespoke solutions include: Matheson Transact Pro - an innovative deal management platform that coordinates contract analysis, end-to-end deal management and document review, automated report generation and the ability to track review progress in real time. Matheson Collaborate – is a secure digital workspace which is used across all practice areas to facilitate advanced matter management, secure file sharing, task management and workflow automation. “We won the Net Zero Carbon award for our innovative energy tracking app – CarbonCal – at the recent Business & Finance ESG Awards 2023,” Garret adds.

Strong Relationships - Client satisfaction is the real measure of success for the work we do. We are a relationship-driven firm and advise clients from across the globe on their most complex and important transactions. Our working relationship with clients is enhanced by giving clients direct access to a dedicated team and offering a proactive approach to delivering practical, commercial and concise advice.

Diversity & Sustainability Matheson is committed to being an environmentally responsible service provider and employer. The firm believes its Impactful Business Programme closely aligns with its clients' strategies. "Our integrated approach has provided thought leadership and innovation in this area,” he notes.

Garret stresses the importance of delivering exceptional experiences for all clients with a strong tradition of innovation in the delivery of legal services. “It is one of our core values,” he notes. “Our ongoing commitment to innovation is driven by our multi-disciplinary

Initiatives include: Matheson’s Sustainability Committee Tasked with implementing initiatives and setting targets, it ensures the firm meets and continuously improves its sustainability objectives. Pro Bono Pledge Ireland - Matheson is the founding signatory of an access to justice initiative calling on legal professionals in Ireland to commit to providing free legal assistance to those who need it. Gold Standard Diversity and Inclusion Programmes - Matheson is the only law firm in Ireland to receive this standard from the Irish Centre of Diversity for D&I practices. Matheson is also the first Irish law firm to partner with The Legal 500 for EMEA Global Green Guide, which recognises law firms across the globe for their contribution to a green transition and explores firms’ work for clients in connection with climate change mitigation and sustainability, while also highlighting their own internal best practises and initiatives.

The Beauchamps Housing Team has been the backbone behind the majority of crucial landmark housing projects delivered in Ireland in recent years with an impressive portfolio and public sector client list. Their expertise, knowledge, and dedication to improving the housing market in Ireland for everyone have led them to receive this award from Public Sector Magazine for the fifth year in succession.

Excellence in Housing Services Best Property Team Award

BEAUCHAMPS Beauchamps’ market-leading, dedicated housing team has unrivalled insight into the legal issues involved in the provision of housing—particularly social and affordable housing - and a deep understanding of the unique and complex issues which arise from a regulatory and governance perspective. Partner Fidelma McManus leads the team and speaks with great passion on the projects her team is involved in and the housing landscape at large. Even though there are still many hurdles on the way to ensuring suitable sustainable housing for all, Fidelma notes we should not lose track of the progress made in the market over the last decade: “The housing landscape in Ireland is still turbulent, but there has been excellent progress that sometimes gets dwarfed by new issues that arise. The historic supply issues with lack of delivery, especially in social housing, had begun to be reversed, and targets on the numbers of units were

closer to being met. However, increasingly external global factors affected not only the numbers that need to avail of housing in this country but also things like inflation, shortage of workers, materials, and capacity within the sector, which affect pretty much every aspect involved in the delivery of housing and overall viability as a whole. “We have also experienced ongoing delays through our planning system, but the new Planning and Development Bill will help alleviate some of the issues there. The most radical amendment is the potential to reduce delays arising from judicial reviews. I am hopeful that we can build on the positives we’ve achieved over the last couple of years and not let the negatives stop us in our tracks. It is important to remember that last year, nearly 30,000 new homes were constructed, the highest annual housing supply in over a decade and the largest number of new-build social homes in any year since 1975. We also saw the launch of the first cost rental and affordable housing schemes.”

According to Fidelma, how new housing developments, particularly those involving high-rise apartments, are approached has changed dramatically in recent years: “Increased costs of funding and supply issues made private owner-occupier developments a less attractive option for many developers, switching focus to the private rental sector for exit opportunities,” she explains. However, as the private rental sector is experiencing its own challenges, most recently with increased funding costs, Fidelma hopes that this fluctuation in private company input can be turned into a positive for new public sector housing models. “The one thing I would like to see is some of the projects initially earmarked for the private rental sector being picked up by the public side or delivered as true mixed-tenure projects. Schemes that were intended to be split 50% social housing and 50% to the private rental sector could now be developed as a mix of social, cost rental, and affordable. We are seeing projects

coming across our table that may have had a different intention but are now being slightly changed, reinvigorated, and delivered with varying stakeholders due to the numerous available government supports.

for viability or other reasons. The first of these schemes is currently being delivered and consists of affordable sales units, further helping level the field for people to buy their own homes.

“This does mean more involvement than ever from the public sector in these developments. Working within the public sector on housing presents unique challenges – this is our area of expertise where we have gained a reputation for being solutions-orientated throughout a project lifecycle, ensuring its successful delivery. We have the nutsand-bolts knowledge, which is scalable to projects of any size. We are advisors of choice for several of the largest approved housing bodies and local authorities, so clients feel reassured by our skills. We have a hand in most of the big projects happening at the moment, including new pilot schemes.”

Mixed tenure and affordable housing projects are something that Fidelma is incredibly passionate about. She believes the future of housing delivery must be sustainable and fair. Moving forward, to guarantee that current ventures endure the test of time, long-term thinking needs to be instigated from the beginning of projects and Beauchamps are adept at ensuring that this occurs.

Mixed Tenure & Affordable Housing The housing team at Beauchamps was involved last year in about 40 housing projects, which will together deliver over 2,000 units and the team are just as busy this year, with work being undertaken for Dublin City Council, The Housing Agency (Croí Cónaithe), and the Land Development Agency (LDA) amongst others. One LDA scheme, Project Tosaigh, is focused on unlocking planning permission projects that are ready to go but have yet to be delivered

Fidelma explains: “The fact is that we need to deliver sustainable long-term homes in mixed communities - it’s not just about delivering units now, it’s about building the future. It’s also looking at what didn’t work in the past and what can be prevented from happening again. This includes not only our energy efficiency goals but every part of the ESG principle. “It’s hugely important to have true mixed tenure schemes to service society for every stage of people’s lives. For example, from three-bedroom family homes to smaller elder care apartments within the same community, but in addition, we also need to have a mix of social, cost rental, private rental and owner-

occupiers within the same schemes. We want to deliver real communities where everyone has a role to play. Visibility and diversity go together for the betterment of society, and housing is such an important part of this system. Beauchamps understands that this affects us all, every generation, and it is really important to us to make a tangible and meaningful contribution to the challenges facing housing delivery in Ireland. The focus has sharpened most recently on the significant societal implications of not having a well-functioning and diverse housing market and to be part of the solution, all stakeholders must be involved in the shared goal of delivering a better future for housing in Ireland” Beauchamps Housing & Commercial Real Estate Key Contacts: Fidelma McManus, Partner & Head of Housing E: f.mcmanus@beauchamps.ie Conor McEvoy, Partner, Housing & Commercial Real Estate E: c.mevoy@beauchamps.ie Caoimhe Banks, Partner, Housing & Commercial Real Estate E: c.banks@beauchamps.ie Information correct as of July 2023

The Beauchamps team has been recognised for its contribution to Irish society by The Public Sector Magazine, awarded for 5 consecutive years: Excellence in Business Award 2023 for Housing Services - Best Property Team Award.

beauchamps.ie

DELIVERING PRACTICAL, INNOVATIVE & COMMERCIAL HOUSING SOLUTIONS With demand for housing in Ireland now higher than ever before, getting projects over the line can be a challenge. Our specialist housing team have unrivalled legal insights into the provision of all types of housing and in particular, social and affordable housing. We recognise that housing development as a strategic investment requires bespoke legal advice. Beauchamps can assist and navigate you through the unique and complex issues surrounding housing delivery including all related regulatory and governance matters. Get in touch: Fidelma McManus, Partner and Head of Housing | E: f.mcmanus@beauchamps.ie | T: +353 (0) 1 4180 600

Beauchamps would like to acknowledge the significant contribution Tom Parlon has made to the Irish Construction Industry and we wish him the very best for the future.

The 3 strategies leaders must deploy to find and retain the best talent One - Craft a meaningful employer story that is as exciting and as inclusive as possible (and get it to the right audience).

Two - Purposefully design and deploy a people value proposition that creates a competitive advantage.

Three - Harness workforce innovation & professionalization that broadens talent scope and uses best-in-class delivery models.

Cpl is a global provider of talent solutions including specialist recruitment, managed services, outsourcing and strategic talent advisory services through Cpl’s Future of Work Institute. Contacts: E: insights@cpl.com E: hello@futureofwork.ie Ph: +353 1 614 6000 W: www.cpl.com

Cpl, headquartered in Dublin is a global provider of talent solutions, including specialist recruitment, managed services, outsourcing and strategic talent advisory services through Cpl’s The Future of Work Institute.

Excellence in Recruitment & Talent Solutions Services Support Award Ireland’s Best Recruitment Agency

CPL Cpl is a subsidiary of Outsourcing Inc, a Tokyo headquartered, publicly listed organisation that operates in 38 countries, spanning six continents. As Cpl, the firm has a presence in 13 countries globally and access to 39 countries as a part of Outsourcing Inc. Cpl works with 4,500 clients, many of which are US multinationals with established bases in EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa).

Cpl has evolved massively over three decades, beginning with one employee, Anne Heraty, who established the business in 1989. In 1996 the firm opened its Cork office, followed the next year with a move to Merrion Square and the opening of a further office in Limerick, then a year later, another in Galway. In 1990 Cpl Resources Plc listed on the Irish (DCM) and London Stock Exchanges (AIM)

Cpl’s vision is to be the world’s best at transforming its clients through sustainable total talent solutions and experiences. This vision is made real through the three strategic pillars of Client First, Future Ready and Total Solutions. This vision and these three pillars guide everything the company does and are built into the fabric of the business. Each pillar has associated key initiatives that ensure a focused approach to Cpl’s growth and commitment to continuous excellence.

During the first decade of the new millennium, Cpl had increased its staffing level to 4,049 employees. In 2002 came the acquirement of Flexsource and in 2006, Cpl entered the UK Healthcare market. In 2007, Cpl acquired Kate Cowhig and the Northern Ireland office was opened the same year. Between 2010 and 2019, Cpl had some 10,207 employees and early in the decade, the firm acquired Servisource, Private Homecare and Deena Energy. During the same decade, Cpl

Poland and Cpl Hungary were established. Cpl Today Further expansion has taken place in the last three years. In 2021 Cpl was acquired by Outsourcing Inc and Anne Heraty stepped down as CEO after 32 years at the helm, with Deputy CEO, Lorna Conn succeeding her, Ntrinsic (based in UK, Belgium and France), Care 24-7 and German-based Neusta were both recently acquired and the Cpl Group continues to grow and expand into new regions. Cpl Group strategy is overseen and led by CEO, Lorna Conn, supported by a group executive team made up of Functional Heads and Pillar Heads, a team with multiple years-experience across multiple sectors and the firm is proud to have a 50/50 split representation of male and female leaders in the group executive team.

Over the past four years, as part of its renewed commitment to structured strategy, Cpl has increased its focus on providing solutions across what is known as ‘The Talent Spectrum’ - providing impactful business solutions from talent awareness, attraction, recruitment, management, retention and development. A core part of the next phase of Cpl is the increased focus on internationalisation. This has brought new challenges in terms of the seamless integration of European-based entities. Cpl has learned quickly through its most recent acquisition Neusta (based in seven locations across Germany), opening further opportunities for more expansive European growth. As with many businesses, the last few years have been challenging for Cpl, as CEO Lorna Conn explains: “Covid-19 has been hard for everyone but given the highly people-centric nature of the business, it meant a major change in how we managed our workforce and the workforces of clients, while maintaining strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and candidates alike. Our continued growth during this period shows Cpl’s ability to overcome the challenge. “Cpl has achieved several key milestones that will enhance its relevance over the past 24 months, resulting from a concerted focus on broadening and strengthening our talent solutions suite and our international presence,” Lorna Conn explains.

“The full rebrand of Cpl with the strapline ‘Work the Future’ to highlight our commitment to transformational talent solutions. as well as the creation of Talent Evolution Group, a specialist talent solutions group focused on RPO (Recruitment Process Outsourcing), MSP (Managed Service Provider) and TTS (Total Talent Solutions) services for national and multinational clients, doubling growth in 12 months. “Other milestones include the acquisition of Neusta in Germany, a specialist technology contractor brand, Ntrinsic in the UK/ Belgium/France (technology specialists), and Care 24-7 in the UK (domiciliary care),” she adds. Other key developments for Cpl have been, among others, the establishment of a new Cpl Life Sciences presence in Switzerland, the establishment of a new office in Bulgaria to support lower-cost outsourcing services to clients and the creation and launch of new FOWI (Future of Work Institute) offering Wellness, Employer Value Proposition & Branding and Future Leadership Development. Commitment to Customers Cpl is committed to being a premium talent solutions brand. The firm competes through a deep focus on the customer through client-centricity, total solutions, and service excellence. Supported by brand positioning in the marketplace, a strong focus on social

media presence, connected marketing campaigns, exciting thought leadership differentiation and value add for clients. Cpl has a significant focus on deep client and candidate engagement, viewing its approach to brand, marketing, and engagement as key points of differentiation. Cpl has built a significant brand and worldclass marketing capabilities to stand out in the marketplace. Brands such as Cpl’s Talent Evolution Group, Covalen, and Future of Work Institute were created in-house, and the firm provides employer brand and marketing services to clients in Ireland, the UK, and beyond. From a social media engagement perspective, Cpl is a leader in its field. As a group, its combined following is over 500,000 and the strategy remains to focus on increasing engaged followers.

“Positive business outcomes naturally follow when we invest in people’s development, empower them with necessary skills, and assist them in realising their full potential.”

Cpl’s vision is to be the world’s best at transforming its clients through sustainable total talent solutions and experiences.

Scale is important as a differentiator for Cpl and the company has worked hard to create a full European footprint headquartered in Dublin, with offices across 13 countries (Ireland, United Kingdom, Germany, Belgium, France, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Switzerland, Tunisia, and the United States), Cpl is Ireland’s largest talent solutions provider and is a subsidiary of Outsourcing Inc, a Tokyo headquartered publicly listed organisation which operates in 38 countries, spanning six continents. With over 30 years experience, Cpl occupies a unique position within the Irish market due to its unrivalled talent network (including a database of over 2.5m candidates) and deep talent expertise. The differentiator is the ability to offer tailored 360-degree talent solutions across the talent spectrum. This is supported by deep sectoral expertise in targeted segments: Healthcare, Life Sciences, Technology and Professional services and a client list that includes many of the world’s most respected national and multinational organisations. Client First is one of Cpl’s guiding strategic pillars, part of its Transformational Talent Experiences strategy. The firm designs and deploys real-world-ready integrated solutions that create transformational value appropriate to the needs of its clients and its candidates. Cpl is the only company in its sector, backed up by research, that has appointed a Chief Customer Officer whose role is to join the firm’s thinking in serving and innovating for its clients. This CCO is supported by analytical, design and id/solutions management capabilities. When it comes to employees, Cpl places enormous emphasis on values and culture. The strength of the firm’s culture is attested by its Great Place to Work rankings. In 2023, Cpl placed fifth in the Great Place to Work Ireland listing, up from 11th in 2021. In September 2022, for the first time, Cpl was placed in the Great Place to Work European listing, ranking 31st in the large category – one of 3,000 companies eligible across four categories.

Cpl is also recognised as a Great Place to Work for Women for the fourth year in a row and is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The firm’s strategy focuses on creating a truly inclusive workplace, building competency within the leadership team and all employees to advocate inclusive behaviours. It also establishes processes to attract, develop and retain diverse talent and build a partner diversity programme that offers real opportunities to those from marginalised backgrounds. Into the Future Moving forward, Cpl is currently well into a major strategic initiative that involves a significant acquisition. These include a further bolstering of key offices in key sectors in DACH and CEE to support sectoral development and sourcing capabilities with further investment in international marketing and business development in Europe, the US, and Australia (Healthcare Division). In addition, development of Cpl’s Talent Evolution Group brand and expansion of the brand into the UK and Europe and development of the Covalen brand into selected sectoral markets are key initiatives. Cpl is keen to cement its foothold in Ireland by continued focus on marketing to clients and candidates in Ireland through initiatives such as the Cpl Salary Guide (covering 16 sectors), the first-ever Cpl Virtual Job Fair to engage with candidates beyond borders (3,000+ attendees resulting in 500+ direct qualified applications), further development of Cpl’s contractor proposition supported by educational content, and six events with over 300 senior leaders within Future Work World community. Internationalisation is also key to the firm’s expansion. This will be achieved using support and integration of Ntrinsic and Neusta, the newly acquired businesses

now part of the Cpl Group, to expand its presence in key European markets such as Germany, Belgium, and the UK. When asked about the greatest lesson she has learned in business, Lorna said: “The greatest lesson I’ve learned in business can be distilled into one simple, yet profound, insight - people transform businesses. I’ve found that the successes of organisations, including Cpl, rest almost solely on the quality and growth of talent. It is not only about attracting the right people, it’s about nurturing an environment where they can flourish, evolve, and step up to the challenges of their roles. “Many organisations used to focus on numbers, strategies, and the pursuit of the next big innovation. It used to be about the ‘what’ in business. However, today, successful organisations realise the focus must be on the ‘what’ and the ‘who’. Positive business outcomes naturally follow when we invest in people’s development, empower them with necessary skills, and assist them in realising their full potential. “This transformation has been a significant paradigm shift for many, but one that I firmly believe in. It also aligns seamlessly with our strategic vision as we aspire to be the world’s best at transforming our clients through sustainable talent solutions and experiences.” In closing, Lorna adds: “At Cpl, we believe transformation starts from within. Focusing on individual and team development leads to more effective leadership, greater productivity, and increased employee satisfaction. This creates a positive ripple effect, benefiting our clients and catalysing growth within our business.”

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The DNG Group was established in 1982 and is Ireland’s leading estate agency business with over 80 branches nationwide. Since opening its second branch in West Dublin in 1990, the firm’s goal has been to constantly innovate and provide its clients with the best and most professional service possible.

Estate Agency Services Support Award Estate Agency of the Year

DNG GROUP DNG offers a diverse range of property services and boasts a highly motivated team with a second-to-none network of local experts nationwide. The firm places a huge emphasis on knowledge and research. It uses this to continually improve its service, believing that this commitment to continual learning and innovation makes them the best in class when it comes to property services. DNG is extremely proud of its reputation as experienced, trustworthy, professional, innovative, and results-driven agents. Deputy Chief Executive Orla McMorrow explains: “Our company is led by a passionate and highly skilled management team, who aim to exceed expectations every time. Our wider network of agents throughout the country brings a high level of experience and knowledge to the table, ensuring that we deliver absolute success to our clients.

“Our corporate strap-line is: “Your Move, Our People,” and we mean it. We know that our team will get the best results. We showcase our properties using the most innovative property technology available, delivering an unrivalled user experience. From the first contact with us, our people will advise and support you every step of the way. We are delighted to announce that DNG has been recently appointed Exclusive Affiliate Partner by Hamptons International in Ireland which will provide an international platform for DNG clients’ prime property sales. Hamptons International Division has one of the largest real estate networks in the world, with a global reach incorporating over 7,000 affiliate estate agent offices. Hamptons sell some of the finest properties worldwide and we are delighted to be able to co-brand our prime homes on their global platform offering the best national and international exposure.

“DNG has established itself as a leader in its field, with an ever-increasing number of staff and sales. By staying ahead of the game and embracing change, we have continued to thrive in a highly competitive marketplace. DNG is a shining example of how ambition and determination can lead to great results. “Our strategy over the past decade has been to locate prime DNG branches in every major city and town in Ireland, offering a nationwide service with the power of second-to-none local knowledge. We believe that consistency is key – every one of our DNG branches (over 80) are fitted out to the same high standards and offers the very best in service, sales and marketing support, and knowledgeable personnel.” Businesses throughout Ireland faced numerous challenges during the last few years and DNG was no exception. COVID-19

drastically changed how the firm operated with offices closed physically, while the team remained operational thanks to remote working, virtual viewings of properties and online valuations to keep the housing market functioning. DNG moved over multiple properties to virtual viewing services, inviting buyers to register their interest for a one-to-one virtual viewing on its video conferencing platform. With the valuations team moving into online valuations, they would use Eircodes and Google Street View in conjunction with interior videos to value properties, once again conducting one-to-one meetings with sellers. Evolving Marketplace The pandemic changed buyers’ behaviours and essentially reshaped the Irish housing market. The DNG team noted a surge on the website from the UK along with NI and the US. With extensive research, the team could see that buyer sentiment remained resilient, with reliable broadband being at the forefront of what buyers were looking for and space for a home office. This is now a current everyday requirement when agents are selling and dealing with buyers to this day. Hybrid office/remote working is still prevalent for the majority of buyers. We work tirelessly to remain current in an ever-evolving marketplace”, says Orla. “We understand that the property market is constantly changing and evolving. That’s why we have taken a proactive approach to staying

one step ahead of the game. We invest in ongoing training, research and development of our services, and up-to-date reporting so that our clients get the best possible results when buying or selling their home. We are committed to providing an exceptional property and customer experience tailored to each client’s needs.

that brings a property to life with the option of live one-to-one virtual viewing with agents. Paired with DNG Plus, which is exclusive to DNG in Ireland, this platform is a gamechanger for property sales, posting, and boosting properties across social media channels so it reaches the most relevant audience.

“All our highly experienced agents are experts in their locality, ensuring they can constantly deliver the best results for their clients. Regular re-training prepares them for changing market conditions and virtually any eventuality. DNG has also invested in innovative technology, including a property software system that leverages the power of our strong customer database to benefit our clients.

DNG understands that home buyers want to see homes in a variety of formats, so the firm produces its own property newspaper that is distributed free throughout the nationwide branch network. Potential home buyers can view over 100 pages of property news and home highlights, both in print as well as digital at DNG.ie

“We believe that innovation is key when it comes to ensuring success for all our clients. DNG has in-house marketing and IT departments to ensure we are leading the way in technology, design and branding. Our highly experienced and forwardthinking marketing team produces many of our marketing materials and promotional campaigns. They also works closely with our IT team in identifying and embracing new ways of marketing, such as social media, so our strategy is always ahead of the game.” Virtual Reality DNG uses 3D Virtual Tours with live viewing, so prospective purchasers can virtually walk through a home using a customised system

Taking care of the customer is of utmost importance to DNG. The firm takes a uniquely proactive approach, helping them every step of the way. DNG’s client services and private clients´ department was set up in 2013 to match buyers and potential sellers to properties that best suit their requirements, both on and primarily off-market in the greater Dublin area. This specialist division offers a discreet personalised service in conjunction with the DNG branch network using the most up-todate technology through a cloud-based CRM system allowing access to every property in the DNG network both on and off the market. The team also targets and brokers sales for properties that suit certain buyer profiles. DNG has a wide range of property divisions, including Residential Sales, Lettings and

Our company is led by a passionate and highly skilled management team, who aim to exceed expectations every time. Property Management, Commercial Sales, Lettings and Acquisitions, Sites and Land, New Homes, Valuations and Advisory Services. At Your Service At DNG, much emphasis is placed on customer service. As Orla explains: “It is important to have a customer service philosophy that outlines the core values and principles that guide how you interact with customers. “We believe in providing exceptional customer service at all times. We strive to create an environment where customers feel valued and respected and where their feedback is taken seriously. We are proactive in our approach to customer service, taking the time to understand our customers’ needs and responding quickly and efficiently. We place great emphasis on building strong relationships with our customers by showing them that we genuinely care about them and their satisfaction with our services.

“Our client services team supports this to match buyers and potential sellers to properties that best suit their requirements both on and primarily off the market in the greater Dublin area. This can be done over the phone, email, and live chat. Potential buyers can use the live chat feature on our website to find out more about a property and to arrange an online viewing with the agent, all in a matter of minutes.” DNG identifies its customers’ needs by conducting regular market research, customer feedback surveys and interviews. DNG is poised to introduce an online bidding platform that can be used 24-7, 365 days a year. This new service means customers can now sit down at a time that suits them and take their time through the whole process. The bidders need to be pre-cleared and qualified first to access the site - approval will be given when proof of documentation is uploaded. DNG believes that its people are its greatest asset. The senior management team is a testament to this belief. With extensive experience in their respective fields, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They understand the importance

of developing strong relationships with employees and customers and strive to create an environment where everyone can contribute their ideas and skills. The firm is committed to providing each employee with the resources they need to succeed and reach their full potential and has invested heavily in training programmes. DNG has a fantastic corporate social responsibility committee chaired by Paul Murgatroyd, who steers all aspects of DNG’s work in local community events, charity support, and sponsorships. DNG is intrinsically involved in the communities it serves, supporting some of Ireland’s leading charity organisations, and sponsoring sports clubs and associations in the communities in which it operates. “We are excited to announce DNG TY 2024, our online work experience programme for students in transition year,” Orla enthuses. “This online programme is accessible to students from all over the country and full of interactive activities including ‘a day in the life of an estate agent’; ‘online auctions’ and ‘3rd level college presentations’. Over 350 TY students have already signed up for the programme.”

Foróige is a youth development organisation engaging over 50,000 young people and 5,500 volunteers. We are a powerful force for good in communities across Ireland.

www.foroige.ie Foróige, The National Youth Development Organisation Block 12D, Joyce Way, Park West, Dublin 12 D12 Y0A6

Connect with us

Call us: 01 630 1560 Fax us: 01 630 1568 Email us: info@foroige.ie

Foróige is an independent, non-profit national voluntary youth organisation engaged in out-of-school youth development and education.

Excellence in Public Sector Youth Services Award

FORÓIGE A pioneering force for youth services in Ireland since 1952, Foróige has evolved into the country's leading national youth development organisation and is involved with more than 50,000 young people. Its philosophy is to enable young people to involve themselves consciously and actively in their own development and in the development of society as a whole. Foróige Clubs offer a safe place for young people to hang out, meet new friends, have a voice and develop life skills. What makes a Foróige Club different from other youth clubs is that it is run by the young people themselves, alongside fully trained volunteers. This allows each individual to believe in themselves, make decisions and practice leadership through diverse projects

that offer opportunities to discover and express their passions and develop skills, whether through art or music, sport or dance, technological knowledge, or mentoring others in need. According to CEO Seán Campbell, one of the key ways to identify young people's needs is to consult with them continuously. Through its clubs, Foróige creates a safe arena by listening and talking to young people and giving them responsibility within the organisation. The organisation is also partnered with leading academic institutions across the globe to research potential and emerging problems in youth society. Seán explains: "It is a no-brainer, as we have learned and we know - we must work with

young people while they are experiencing problems as teenagers when the difficulties are already developing, and not leave it until it is too late. Prevention is the key - we must invest in our youth and their skills for the future, not keep throwing money at the difficult outcomes when the problems have already developed. “Our central aims are to help young people grow their empathy, critical thinking and digital citizenship with our Youth Leadership Programme. These aims cannot be achieved by formal education alone. Informal education is of utmost importance too, and we aim to help by offering skill-based activities outside the schoolroom so that every child can find their own passion and freedom to express it," he adds. "We now offer a fully structured

course in empathy, a life skill that we believe is of utmost importance and can help young people find their way through their world. “We are extremely proud of our Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) project, a programme aimed at 15 to 18-year-olds to learn practical entrepreneurial skills, taking them from an idea of a business to fruition, leading them from dependence to independent thinking – a baseline of our philosophy,” he notes. Embracing Technology In today's social media world, young people need to navigate safely in online spaces and respond to the potential threats that these may pose. Foróige has dedicated a programme to address these issues, involving their network of 5,000 clubs throughout Ireland, with embedded faceguarding protection and procedure policies aided by community based teaching and fully trained volunteers. Foróige has also been successfully piloting virtual reality (VR) technology to engage young people in these youth work services. A growing network of staff and volunteers are utilising VR technology to connect young people to youth work, particularly marginalised young people or those experiencing rural or social isolation. VR allows these young people to engage in youth work programmes and initiatives remotely, access support from professional youth workers and trained volunteers and meet, collaborate with, and learn from likeminded peers.

Supported by Rethink Ireland and The Tomar Trust Foundation, the GoVirtual programme project aims to enhance and grow engagement with young people through VR, especially young people living in isolated environments, including those living rurally, with disabilities, suffering from social anxiety, young carers or those in hospital. Empower & Overcome As in any organisation, Seán acknowledges the obstacles in making progress: "Of course, we get frustrated with those in power sometimes. We advocate mixing formal and informal education as the way forward for our young people. The world has changed, but our education system lags behind. We believe that every young person should have every opportunity to progress. This should not be a postcode lottery. We have done our research with some of the greatest academies in the world, and we have studied and worked at this. Our children need investment, they are our future, and there is a way to progress through a universal investment in all of our youth aided by the government.” Much of Foróige work is centred on giving back to the community and empowering those that do. The organisation's support for young people's individual projects to improve their communities with their own actions and report back to the clubs on the outcomes of their endeavours has proven to be a huge success. Forming part of the Foróige Citizenship Programme, a

Youth youth

development programme, the project empowers young people to use their talents and initiative to make a positive difference in the world around them. It involves young people researching the needs of their community, schools and society, organising practical action in response, evaluating the effectiveness of their work and reflecting on what they have learned along the way. Seán explains: “A government investment in young people is an investment for everyone in Ireland. We need to invest in our future; young people are our future, and the communities where they live are a fundamental part of everyone's future." Seán has high hopes for the future of Ireland's youth. Foróige has submitted a report to the national government for the 2024 Budget to urge for much needed funding for universal youth services. It hopes to drive through a government injection of 40 million euros over three years. This, Seán says is aimed at giving equality to all the young people of Ireland. "It is not as much as it should be, but it will give us a modest outcome in progress and open up the pathway for more young people to be involved. Concluding he says, “Never forgetting the great pride we have in all the young people we are already working alongside and the volunteers and all our staff all making a huge difference, we will keep driving forward.”

"A government investment in young people is an investment for everyone in Ireland. We need to invest in our future; young people are our future, and the communities where they live are a fundamental part of everyone's future."

Fragomen is the leading provider of immigration services worldwide. The firm has 6,000+ immigration professionals and support staff in over 60 offices in 170 countries.

Excellence in Immigration Services Award

FRAGOMEN Fatima Aydin (Senior Manager) Ángel Bello-Cortés (Partner)

Fragomen Ireland provides the full suite of Irish corporate and personal immigration services, and the development of customised and compliant immigration programmes to a wide range of clients including multinational, Fortune 500 and emerging companies across a variety of sectors, including financial, tech, healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, sports and more. The firm also assists local SMEs and individuals. Fragomen Ireland opened its doors in Dublin in 2017 in response to increased client needs relating to Ireland’s favourable business environment. Since then, the office has experienced meaningful growth parallel to its clients’ growth in the postBrexit era and Ireland’s positioning as a global business hub. During these five years, Fragomen Ireland has created 80-plus Irish jobs. It anticipates further job creation in the next two years, especially as FDI companies

expand their presence and operations in the country. The Practice also has a dedicated private client team dealing mainly with residency and citizenship services, and also provides immigration support to local businesses of all sizes. In recent years, Fragomen Ireland has helped its clients navigate the increasing complexities of their obligations and ensure they meet the necessary fundamentals. Additionally, Fragomen and its clients successfully faced various challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and other worldwide events. As a global company, the firm works to ensure its service offering is robust, competitive and at the forefront of the industry to navigate the next obstacle, risk or challenge. Fragomen understands the importance of technology and invests heavily in this area.

Ireland Managing Partner Ángel BelloCortés explains: “We’ve formed Fragomen Technologies Inc., a subsidiary focused on the nexus of immigration services and technology that creates client-facing immigration and compliance solutions. We have also acquired SimpleCitizen, an enhanced workflow software that integrates with our client portal, and Nomadic - a business travel solution based on technology-led processes.” “At the heart of these technologies is a focus on ensuring we can provide predictive analytics for our clients. Using data, we can predict trends in immigration and ensure we bring the most up-to-date and insightful information available to mobility professionals.” When asked if anything has surprised him about the business, Ángel answers: “Since

joining Fragomen, I’ve had exposure to immigration systems worldwide. It never ceases to amaze me how competitive and transparent the Irish business immigration system is, particularly the Employment Permits system managed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Undoubtedly our streamlined, collaborative and employer-friendly Employment Permits system has greatly contributed to Ireland’s success as a global business hub.” Fragomen works hard to stand out from the competition. The firm’s history and experience in immigration, coupled with best-in-class professionals with a strong knowledge of policies and local processing nuances, reinforces its ability to provide innovative solutions and optimal service delivery. Additionally, Fragomen fosters unparalleled government relations through dedicated Government Strategies and Compliance team which counsels clients through government investigations, audits and litigation and a knowledge team responsible for analysing immigration developments around the world as they occur. The firm has also embraced technology from the beginning. Fragomen was the first immigration firm to build its own case management technology and portal. It has been core to the firm’s service offering

ever since, and they have never stopped investing. Fragomen has more data on immigration than any other immigration provider in Ireland and worldwide. The firm’s mission is to be integral to its clients’ success by providing representation, services and strategic advice to facilitate the hiring and movement of skilled talent globally. It takes a personalised approach to client service, genuinely taking the time to understand clients’ culture, organisation and goals and developing bespoke solutions that meet their needs. Fragomen immerses itself in its clients’ companies and their industry believing their success is Fragomen’s success. The firm is continually evolving to stay ahead of and anticipate client needs. This includes pioneering innovative technology and data solutions, expanding their footprint and service offerings, and investing in extensive knowledge and compliance resources. Fragomen also places great emphasis on recruiting and retaining excellent personnel. “Supporting the development of our employees’ expertise and careers is vital to delivering the highest quality services and experiences for our clients, particularly in a field as dynamic as immigration and

global mobility,” Ángel explains. “We provide a range of comprehensive training programs and invest in our people. Career development is a key pillar of our firm, and we pride ourselves on creating an environment where staff can thrive and reach their full potential. This is exemplified by our turnover of staff, which for the year to date is less than 10%. “We were recognised with the Excellence in Mental Health and Workplace Well-being – Initiative of the Year award for our well-being campaign at the 2023 Workplace Excellence Awards. The awards celebrate organisations and professionals constantly striving for improvements and innovative solutions in the workplace to ensure happy and thriving environments. We all have different skills, talents, personalities and backgrounds, and we must play to everyone’s strengths. Recognising where others might be better equipped for specific tasks is important. We cannot be everything to everyone - true success lies in diversity and teamwork. We are fortunate to have 23 different nationalities represented and over 25 languages spoken in our Irish practice, and I firmly believe our diversity is one our greatest strengths.”

A World of Difference in Immigration At Fragomen, we don’t just facilitate immigration—we create opportunities. We are internationally local—with offices in the heart of each region and services stretching around the world. In Ireland, our dedicated teams support clients and individuals, from small local businesses, to the world’s largest brands - and everything in between. We offer comprehensive immigration solutions and support all of your immigration needs. No matter where you’ve come from, or where you’re going next, Fragomen is here to propel you forward.

Download our latest Immigration Trends Report

www.fragomen.com

High-speed Fiber Broadband Provider Delivery of National Broadband Plan Services Support Award

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is designing, building and operating the new high-speed fibre broadband network for rural Ireland on behalf of the Irish Government under the National Broadband Plan. NBI’s rollout stretches across 96% of Ireland’s land mass and brings high-speed broadband to 23% of Ireland’s population.

NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN Telecoms entrepreneur David McCourt is Chairman of National Broadband Ireland

NBI’s team brings together some of the most talented individuals in Ireland and worldwide, with deep knowledge and experience in delivering projects to the scale of the National Broadband Plan. This includes developing, building and operating networks and coordinating all the elements required to finance and deliver a project of the size and complexity of Ireland’s NBP. NBI signed contracts with the Irish Government in November 2019 and started work with boots on the ground in early 2020. Since then, NBI has rapidly grown its operations and has a direct and indirect workforce of nearly 2,000 people working on delivering the National Broadband Plan. Within weeks of NBI commencing its rollout in early 2020, Ireland went into lockdown due to Covid-19. As with all major infrastructure projects, the National Broadband Plan faced tremendous challenges mobilising construction teams at a time when workers were either coming down with Covid-19, or facing stretches in isolation having been in close contact with others. The National Broadband Plan is Ireland’s most significant investment in rural Ireland since electrification and is heralded as having a transformational impact on rural

communities. Having worked through all of the extreme challenges faced through the pandemic, NBI has come through the other side with its programme still firmly meeting the original policy objectives and being credited for being on budget and on target against its revised rollout projections. As a wholesale broadband provider, NBI’s emphasis on delivering quality across its deployment is delighting its retail ISP customers and is translating into highly satisfied end broadband customers. One way of measuring customer satisfaction is by using Net Promotor Scores. Such scores, which can range from -100 to +100, are based on how likely respondents would recommend a company or product. NBI has consistently achieved extremely high Net Promotor Scores since its launch (+52 in 2023), with results that are almost unheard of in telco. This is also supported by NBI’s “Continuous Improvement Programme” and “Close The Loop” initiatives, designed to address pain points. While connectivity is a vital utility and a critical first step for invigorating rural communities, it alone cannot solve all of the challenges for businesses, farms, community groups, and social enterprises trying to expand the positive impact they can have

on the local and broader economy. This is why NBI has been a founding partner of the RISE Community Fund, a not-for-profit established to celebrate innovative uses of technology and offer cash grants to people using technology in exciting ways. With a shared vision, NBI and RISE are collaborating to tackle the rural/urban digital divide and use technology and entrepreneurship to create opportunities and jobs in rural Ireland. With operations in every county across Ireland, NBI is operating at scale to deliver the National Broadband Plan as quickly and effectively as possible. Since its work commenced, NBI has surveyed over 430,000 premises. This involves crews physically walking the rural routes where fibre will be laid and completing detailed designs for over 409,000 premises. It has close to 200,000 premises available to place an order and has already connected approximately 50,000 end customers. Some 62 RSPs have already signed up to sell services on the National Broadband Ireland network and 51 are certified as ready to start providing connections as of today, creating a highly competitive marketplace that will bring enormous benefits to end consumers.

Excellence in Community Services Thinking Local, Acting Global Orientation & Mobility Services

Vision Ireland, the new name for NCBI, provides services related to orientation and mobility, assistive technology training, digital and physical accessibility, employment advice and training, counselling and more. It operates over 130 charity stores across Ireland, championing a message of sustainability, inclusion and equality.

VISION IRELAND Over the last 18 months, Vision Ireland Retail has been engaged in refurbishing existing stores and opening several new ones. It enjoyed its best year for sales in 2022, and the upward trajectory continues.

He continues: "We want all of those connected to Vision Ireland to reach their full potential and we continue to listen to the needs of staff and volunteers to drive our people values and practices."

Innovation is critical to the organisation's success as Chris explains: "We've changed the look and feel of our stores to alter perceptions of charity shops being dated, and we are building a brand that screams boutique and is inviting for customers."

Vision Ireland's greatest challenge is public funding not increasing in line with the rising number of referrals for its services. There is an average of 2,000 new referrals each year. This requires the necessary organisation to adopt clever approaches to increasing service capacity.

Vision Ireland is also promoting the circular economy and sustainability message educating the public that donating items helps to lessen landfills and keep them in circulation. The organisation's philosophy is to become part of a community to best serve it. Their retail stores are touch points in communities around Ireland and act as community spaces. "We like to say that we think local and act global," Chris explains. "Our Vision Ireland staff and volunteers are vital for us to reach our goals. We can't thank them enough for facing the sometimes-challenging work with nothing but commitment to helping people who are blind or vision impaired."

Mr White reflects on the changing organisation: “The sheer breadth of what we do is probably unmatched in the not-forprofit sector. We’re continually looking for ways to drive our message to as many people as possible through traditional and social media. Every day we learn something new, so the main takeaway is that you shouldn’t be surprised by a surprise!” An important part of Vision Ireland’s work relates to digital accessibility as Chris reports: "In the last year, we launched IA Labs as part of an initiative to make websites more accessible for people with disabilities. Other innovations include our Vision Ireland Labs

team creating the hugely successful myVI Smart Hub which allows visually impaired users of Alexa and Google to voice access the latest information on sight loss." Vision Ireland is the first Irish charity to have presented at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York on their quest for digital accessibility. “It was an incredible opportunity to meet with political and business leaders to explain how important digital accessibility is,” Chris enthuses. The organisation has some exciting projects in the pipeline, including rebranding from NCBI to Vision Ireland, which officially launched on November 6th. The Wayfinding Centre, Ireland's first centre for training pandisability people to access public transport safely and independently, launches in early 2024. The key learning for Vision Ireland is: "You can't sit still. For an organisation to survive and thrive, it must be open to listening and be proactive in innovating to reach a collective goal."

Excellence in Real Estate Solutions Commercial Property Services Support Award

Cushman & Wakefield Ireland is a full-service property advisory firm working across the whole spectrum of the commercial property market.

CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD Cushman & Wakefield Ireland has over 130 employees in Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Cork. These dedicated professionals provide extensive knowledge-based advisory services to occupier, investor and developer clients who all demand the highest standards of professional integrity and trust. In addition to the above, C&W globally is among the largest real estate services firms with approximately 52,000 employees in over 400 offices and approximately 60 countries. Cushman & Wakefield provides deep local and global insights that create significant value for occupiers and investors worldwide. The firm’s core areas are Agency, Leasing, Management services, Capital Markets, Facility Services, Global Occupier Services, Investment & Asset Management, Project & Development Services, Tenant representation and Valuation & Advisory. Cushman & Wakefield recognizes that the industry is changing rapidly. The firm has seen the emergence of new business and operating models, and technology is offering exciting prospects. Cushman &Wakefield is proactive about change and challenging its clients to think differently about Real Estate. The firm’s mission is to ‘rethink people and place’ by driving an industry conversation around the role of real estate and inspiring people to see the opportunities around

change in the business and create pathways for innovation. Cushman & Wakefield prides itself on being at the forefront of innovation in property. The firm’s approach fully leverages technology and specialist insight to address its clients’ specific requirements. Cushman & Wakefield Researchers track and interpret market forces and to provide the best-informed solutions for its clients. This includes strategic forecasting and social, economic, market and business intelligence to public and private sector clients, enabling a full assessment of impact and risk on their operations. The firm applies quantitative analyses delivered through user-friendly interactive maps and dashboards to provide clients with actionable insights intended to drive operational efficiencies, maximise technology investment, and increase productivity. In line with its own SBTi and Net Zero commitments, Cushman & Wakefield has developed comprehensive sustainability programmes to help clients achieve their goals across all aspects of their physical business and operations. These include energy, water, greenhouse gas emissions, CSR reporting, travel, materials selection, procurement, waste, construction, leasing, and employee education.

Cushman & Wakefield believes in constant communication with its clients and ongoing reviews of market dynamics so that any challenges or opportunities are identified early and acted upon efficiently. Cushman & Wakefield believes in working with its clients to establish agreed service levels and KPIs at the outset of any instruction. Cushman & Wakefield prides itself in participating in client feedback surveys. The firm’s approach is to provide a single point of contact to each client to ensure a consistent high-quality service level. We believe that hiring the best people builds trust and maintains long-term client relationships. The firm provides a critically acclaimed Graduate Training Programme, a Mentor Programme and continuous L&D programmes for all staff. Cushman & Wakefield promotes ‘Well-being at Work’ through its Inspire programme dedicated to respecting differences commitment to diversity and inclusion and encouraging a community spirit throughout the business.

SUPPORTING PUBLIC SECTOR At HLB Ireland we work with public and private enterprises in providing assurance to Regulators, Boards and Audit Committees ensuring that the risks are properly identified and managed.

Request a proposal | www.hlb.ie

Services • Audit • Accounting • Payroll • Cyber Security • Risk Management • Corporate Compliance

Excellence in Public Sector Advisory & Accounting Services Services Support Award

HLB Ireland is a leading advisory and accounting firm working with ambitious domestic and overseas businesses in Ireland. Based in Dublin, the firm was formed in 1976 and continues to grow its client base, services and sector specialists.

HLB With over 45 years of experience, HLB Ireland has experienced tremendous growth and is now proudly one of Ireland’s leading professional services firms. The team comprises 75 employees and offers the full range of services you would expect from a mid-tier accountancy firm - advisory, audit and assurance, and tax - along with some you may not, such as business intelligence, outsourced HR and payroll, FDI support and cyber security. HLB Ireland brings that extra mile to each client assignment by listening to issues and providing expert advice and recommendations, ensuring a reliable, professional and value-added service is provided. Partner led assignments allow the team to obtain an unrivalled knowledge of their client’s business. In 2019, HLB’s tax team won Tax Team of the Year at the Irish Accountancy Awards with the firm previously winning Practice of the Year. Having a services and specialist sector focus enables HLB to assist clients in improving business performance, minimise taxes and plan for the future. HLB Global is a network of independent global advisory and accounting firms. Through the power of 38,732 professionals across 157 countries, they

combine local expertise and global capabilities to service client needs. In Europe, HLB is a top 10-ranked network. HLB Ireland’s Managing Partner Mark Butler believes that innovation is an important enabler of growth for both themselves and their clients and sees technology as a key driver of innovation. However, technology also presents its challenges. “Our research and client feedback shows that cyber security and data breaches are a growing concern in many sectors. To address this, and to help our clients develop and innovate successfully in the digital economy, we recently launched a suite of new services in collaboration with FutureRange, a cybersecurity specialist. These solutions include implementing best-in-class, and proven technology from vendors such as Threatlocker, Microsoft, and Palo Alto,” he explains. Taking a partner-led approach to service delivery and deep knowledge of clients’ businesses has contributed to the growth of HLB’s specialisms in areas such as the public sector and FDI, as well as food and agribusiness, where they have established a strong reputation for specialist support and deep expertise.

As Mark explains, HLB has a strong customer service philosophy: “The firm lives by the tagline ‘together we make it happen’, where we focus on understanding each client’s business but also the sectors and environment in which they operate. In this way, we can better support them on every stage of their business journey. “This is why we invest time and resources on indepth research, which we share in our annual sectoral reports. Our sectoral specialisms allow us to deliver a direct and focused service to our clients to assist them with their growth,” he adds. Being part of a global network such as HLB International allows HLB Ireland to build valuable global relationships and develop its FDI services. The firm has taken an active role in the network and was recently appointed to the global council. “We are honoured to serve on HLB International’s global council — a wonderful opportunity to enhance our visibility within our network,” Mark concludes.

The mortgage designed especially for public sector employees

Excellence in Business Awards 2023

ICS Mortgages Excellence in Public Sector Financial Award Best Mortgage for Public Sector Employees

At ICS Mortgages, we’ve been serving the public sector since 1864. We recognise the dedication and hard work that goes into teaching our children, keeping us healthy, keeping us safe and running the country. To find out more: Contact your local mortgage broker, call 0818 427 427 or visit icsmortgages.ie/public-sector-mortgages Lending criteria, terms & conditions apply. Dilosk DAC trading as Dilosk and ICS Mortgages is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Excellence in Financial Services Best Mortgage for Public Sector Employees Award

ICS Mortgages have been a leading and trusted brand for more than 150 years, with lending to public sector workers at the core of their business.

ICS MORTGAGES With such a large pool of knowledge and experience within its territory, ICS Mortgages has stood the test of time throughout many challenging periods for the lending sector. Ray McMahon is the company’s Chief Commercial Officer and says the focus that it has on the market is why it continues to flourish. “For us, the Irish market is 100% the sole focus of our business. There are risks and challenges when you focus on one area, but we have been doing this for a long time and have demonstrated that we know our jurisdiction and our customers inside out.” This level of specific customer service and experience in its chosen sector means that ICS Mortgages is at the forefront of innovating new mortgages for its clients. “We’re constantly working on improving our existing products”, explains Ray. “But we also work very hard to develop new products for all our mortgage borrowers. We have designed our role to maximise the service to our customers. “We have an excellent onboarding process and we have invested hugely in ensuring the application process runs as smoothly

as possible. We have appointed brokers in every county in Ireland as well as our direct customer team so Public Sector workers, whose work is regionally distributed, have another avenue to connect with us. It’s fair to say that public sector workers will always be the epicentre of our business. “We want to design products that are flexible and suit our customers. We have a marketleading feature that allows people to pay off their mortgage early and gain additional savings, and we offer three-month payment breaks that are available up to three times over the life of the mortgage for customers who may need that facility, after the birth of a child, for example. The main thing that we offer though is transparency and long-term value. Other companies may offer teaser rates that then come with a large interest hike after the end of the offer. We will never do this; we want good value over the life of the mortgage, flexibility and great customer service.” The commitment to its core group of customers has translated into amazing growth for ICS Mortgages. Its market share continues to increase and Ray is confident

that this trajectory will continue due to the organisation’s ethos. “The sector has been dominated by banks for a long time and we are one of a group of non-bank lenders that have come in and really disrupted the market. We have been able to grow our volume significantly and we’ve now been able to get to a position where our market share was about 5.5% last year. We have set a high standard for our business and we want to keep improving on that all the time.” Closing Ray adds: “The mortgage business, ultimately, is a people business, and you have to put people at the centre of all of your planning. Those people are customers, staff, and partners that fund and invest in us. Really, that’s the key. If you go about your business wanting to do the right thing for people all the time, and you are transparent, it’s very hard to beat that strategy. It’s really looking at how can you provide the best service over a long period of time for customers and provide a great environment for your staff. This culture has always worked for us, and will continue to do so into the future.”

WELCOME TO THE POWER OF GOOD ADVICE

Evelyn Partners is a leading provider of professional services to the Public Sector in Ireland. Within our Public Sector Advisory division we have created a team with deep sectoral knowledge of the Public Sector and the unique challenges faced by government departments, agencies and publicly funded bodies, in the areas of Internal Audit, Grant Administration, Governance, Risk, Accounting, and Financial Outsource services. Your organisation’s financial needs may seem complex but with direct access to our team of professional advisers you can get the specialist advice you need to allow you to meet your financial, governance and risk challenges. We are delighted to be the winner of the Excellence in Public Sector Financial Support Services Award 2023.

To find out more, please contact: Damien Kealy, Partner, Head of Public Sector Advisory Evelyn Partners (Ireland) Limited T: +353 1 495 9260 E: damien.kealy@evelyn.com

Find out how we can help you..

www.evelyn.com

Evelyn Partners (Ireland) Limited. Registered in Ireland at Paramount Court, Corrig Road, Sandyford Business Park, Dublin D18 R9C7. No. 452593. Authorised to carry on investment business by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland.

Evelyn Partners is a leading provider of accounting and business process outsourcing services to the public sector. The company is part of one of the UK and Ireland’s leading investment, accounting, tax, and outsource services firms. With a team of over 3,600 professionals, Evelyn Partners has 28 offices across Ireland and the UK, with its public sector centre of excellence based in Dublin.

Excellence in Public Sector Financial & Outsourcing Services Support Award

EVELYN PARTNERS Since 2018, Evelyn Partners has doubled its income and headcount, including a dedicated public sector advisory team focused on the needs and challenges of its growing portfolio of public sector clients. The group achieved 30% year-on-year growth thanks to its dedicated team and service excellence. Keen to remain current in an ever-changing marketplace, Evelyn Partners is investing heavily in its employees and technology to ensure they can deliver the best services to their public sector clients and innovative solutions to address ever-increasing challenges. The firm has developed and delivered a smart working environment that leverages the different working styles of its colleagues, helping flexible and remote working to better provide an efficient service for the client. Damien Kealy, Head of Public Sector Advisory comments: “It amazed me how resilient our business has been during the last number of years. We made huge changes from our traditional service methodology, building on remote technologies without losing the personal touch. Being present doesn’t necessarily represent value. Our public sector clients recognise the value of a remote delivery model as it is more efficient. In some situations, face-to-face service delivery offers increased value, especially in areas like training, staff development, and our regular service KPI reviews.

“At Evelyn Partners we recognise that the best way to deliver service excellence to our public sector clients is through a dedicated public sector specialist team. We have built a specialist team with the right experience and expertise who really understand the challenges and needs of public sector clients. Having a specialised team allows us to become true experts.” The firm places a huge emphasis on the calibre of its staff by creating the right culture, investing in training and development, and rewarding good performance. Through various development programmes, Evelyn Partners is helping build stronger and more confident colleagues and consultants. Investing in its team’s communication and softer skills enables the team to carry out its role effectively. Damien is rightly proud of the formation of the public sector advisory team. He explains: “Our outsource accounting and advisory services have been the bedrock of our growing success. In the last number of years, we have built up specific public sector grant administration expertise and developed an outsource public sector internal audit service to deliver on the increasing governance needs of our clients. “Within our public sector advisory team, we have developed a bespoke internal audit service, to support the increasing need for outsourcing of internal audits in public

sector departments and agencies. We have also developed and scaled up our grant administration outsource services. “To deliver success, we invested in people, including hiring experts who previously worked in the public sector. Our approach was to create a team of consultants with experience working in the public sector alongside in-house trained colleagues. This approach and mix enables our team to deliver bespoke sector-specific solutions and top-class service collectively,” he explains. Evelyn Partners is currently a member of The Office of Government Procurement Framework. Public bodies use this Multi Supplier Framework Agreement for the provision of accounting, audit and financial services to the Irish Public Sector to outsource their accounting, finance and internal audit needs and requirements. Outsourcing has been part of the public sector environment for many years. One of the things that drives this is the retention of staff and skill sets in public sector clients. The skill sets required for these new tasks and responsibilities require novel solutions. Evelyn Partners Public Sector Advisory Team has invested in providing these services and filling that strategic gap, working closely with the leadership teams within its clients.

Excellence in Financial Planning Best Insurance Broker to the Public Sector

Cornmarket is Ireland’s largest public sector financial services broker serving over 220,000 customers with over 360,000 policies*.

CORNMARKET Cornmarket has been helping public sector employees and their families with their financial needs for over 50 years. The firm provides financial services to cater to every stage of life, and policies range from car, home, travel and health insurance to pensions and retirement planning, income protection and life insurance. Cornmarket works with over 40 public sector unions, associations and employers and has 370 employees throughout Ireland. In addition to its Irish-based offices, Cornmarket has a UK-based subsidiary - Cornmarket Insurance Services in Belfast, as well as EIS Financial Services in Scotland. 2022 was another successful year for the company, which saw Cornmarket appointed as administrator of the new unified salary protection scheme for members of the trade union, Forsa, and the appointment of Cornmarket as administrator to the Local Government Management Agency Mortgage Protection Scheme. All the while it was delivering a high level of service to its client base, with 95% of surveyed customers rating the company’s Retirement and Financial Planning Service as excellent or very good**. Independent reviews of Cornmarket on platforms such as Google Reviews and Trustpilot are at 4.5 and 4.6 respectively, which shows the huge emphasis that the company puts on customer service and its focus on delivering a customer-first approach to all its clients.

Speaking on winning the award for Best Insurance Broker serving the Public Sector, Managing Director of Cornmarket, Patrick Ryan, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised for our efforts in helping public sector employees with their financial needs. The last number of years have been challenging for everyone, particularly for our frontline workers. We recognise the huge work they do daily to look after everyone else. We aim to help the people who help everyone else, and to be recognised for our efforts is a great achievement.” Cornmarket aims to bring financial well-being to all of its customers. One of Cornmarket’s core product offerings is salary protection. Salary protection is designed to provide clients with a replacement income of up to 75% of salary*** if they are ill or injured and can’t work. It helps give financial security and peace of mind. Over the last number of years, Cornmarket has promoted the health and wellbeing of salary protection scheme members through initiatives such as Pink & Blue Power, delivered by Full Health Medical and My Doc, delivered by Health Hero, to name a few. Pink & Blue Power**** is a potentially lifesaving breast and prostate health assessment and education programme launched in response to the high level of cancer claims. The aim is to increase awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast and prostate cancer for early intervention. Over 70,000 customers have been invited to participate, and since 2012, the programme has detected cancer

in 50 customers. This programme is making a difference in the fight against cancer. MyDoc is another separate service that provides free online access to GP care for members and their families and is available across a variety of salary protection schemes that Cornmarket administrates. Cornmarket continues investing in digital solutions that make life easier for its customers. On the website cornmarket.ie, customers can request quotes and purchase motor, home, travel insurance, and salary protection. The company has embraced digital tools such as webchat and video, so customers can talk to advisors in Cornmarket in the way that best suits them. Cornmarket’s partnership with Breast Cancer Ireland continues to go from strength to strength with the Breast Health Awareness & Education Programme, The Programme aims to educate teachers and support staff on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and the company’s sponsorship of the Great Pink Run also helps to raise vital funds for breast cancer research. This year, Cornmarket is teaming up with Psychotherapist and Counsellor Brent Pope, who is also their brand ambassador. Together, they sponsor Elephant in the Room, a mental health initiative and art project aimed at workplaces and companies to raise awareness about the importance of talking about mental health and helping to remove the stigma. 2022 was a busy year for Cornmarket but 2023 looks set to be even busier.

“We are thrilled to be recognised for our efforts in helping public sector employees with their financial needs. The last number of years have been challenging for everyone, particularly for our frontline workers.”

*Source: Cornmarket Reporting System, 2023. **Source Cornmarket: 3,358 surveys received from January – December 2022. ***Up to 75% less any other income to which you may be entitled e.g., half pay, Ill Health Early Retirement Pension, Temporary Rehabilitation Remuneration, State Illness or Invalidity Benefit. Please note, some plans have a lower benefit amount. You can submit an income protection claim when you have used up your employer’s sick leave entitlements and passed the scheme ‘deferred period’. Simply put, that’s the time that must pass before benefit is paid. ****This programme is brought to members by Cornmarket on behalf of the Scheme / Plan underwriter and is not a regulated financial product. +Source: Cornmarket, October 2022. ++MyDoc is provided by HealthHero and distributed by Cornmarket on behalf of certain Group Protection Scheme/Plan underwriters. MyDoc is not a regulated financial product. Cornmarket Group Financial Services Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. A member of the Irish Life Group Ltd. which is part of the Great-West Lifeco Group of companies.

Dublin City University (DCU) is a leading innovative European university with a mission to transform lives and societies. It is proud to be one of the world’s foremost young universities and is among the world’s top 2% globally. DCU is known for its impact in addressing global challenges in collaboration with key national and international partners and stakeholders.

Excellence in HR Management Award

DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY

DCU has over 20,000 students in five faculties spread across three academic campuses in the Glasnevin-Drumcondra area of North Dublin. Thanks to its innovative approach to teaching and learning, the University offers a transformative student experience that helps to develop highly sought-after graduates. DCU is currently number one in Ireland for graduate employment rate and graduate income (CSO).

inequalities in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. The last ten years have seen a period of dramatic growth for the University, both in its student and staff populations, which have increased by over 50 percent to 20,000 and 2,500, respectively; and in its footprint, with the addition of two academic campuses and an innovation campus, which hosts 75 hightech companies.

DCU is a research-intensive university and is home to several Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) funded research centres. The University participates in a range of European and international research partnerships. DCU is also the leading Irish university in technology transfer as reflected by intellectual property licensing.

As part of this expansion, the University established the DCU Institute of Education - Ireland’s first faculty of education in an Irish university. This came about thanks to the incorporation of St Patrick’s College, Mater Dei Institute of Education and the Church of Ireland College of Education.

As a “People First” institution, DCU is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion - a university that helps staff and students to thrive. The University is a leader in terms of its work to increase access to education and is placed in the world’s Top 10 for reducing

Campus Transformation The University is currently implementing a €300 million campus development plan involving the construction of new lecture theatres, teaching laboratories and research facilities. DCU’s state-of-the-art student

centre, the U, opened in 2018. The first phase of a major student accommodation project recently received a €40m commitment from the government. Construction is underway on DCU Polaris, a landmark building that will provide cutting-edge facilities for students and research staff in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines. DCU is also transforming how its students and staff interact with each other. This transformation will be enabled through a flexible and robust Student Information System (SIS), which can support the University’s change and growth agenda. HR provides ongoing support and change management expertise to ensure the successful implementation of many such change programmes. Challenging Times Like many educational institutes, DCU has faced challenges in recent times. One of these has been ensuring ongoing positive access to learning for all students not only

during the Covid-19 pandemic but also post-pandemic with the return to campus. A rapid pivot to online learning created many challenges, which included the adaptation of IT systems, maintaining staff capacity, and developing new approaches to assessment and exams. Equally, the return to campus required the University to adapt again and take the best learnings from the pandemic to enhance students’ learning experience and staff’s lived experience. HR continues to play a vital role in supporting the University to navigate these post-Covid challenges and support staff capability development and well-being. Student Experience DCU’s number one priority is to provide a transformative student experience. The University’s commitment to its students will prepare them to flourish in the world outside the University in their personal lives, in civic society, and in a rapidly evolving workplace. To ensure DCU stays at the forefront of an ever-changing marketplace, the University is radically re-imagining its curriculum to enhance innovation and agility for future skills needs. This process, called DCU Futures is transforming undergraduate students’ learning experience at the University. Initially, a suite of ten new programmes was created, featuring exciting crossdisciplinary areas of study and introducing new ‘challenge-based learning’ projects developed in collaboration with industry and employers. The courses exemplify a broader DCU Futures philosophy that is gradually being embedded across all undergraduate degrees. Key to this new approach to

the curriculum is the development of the key transferable or ‘transversal’ skills that students need to thrive in the post-Covid19 world. The University is the first in the world to develop a Transversal Skills Framework, which provides a baseline for students’ development in this important area. Transforming Lives and Societies DCU is known for its enduring commitment to addressing social disadvantage through education. This is exemplified by the DCU Access programme, the biggest and longest-established of its kind in Ireland. The University’s responsibility to the coming generations is realised in its massive investment in creating Ireland’s first Faculty of Education. DCU Institute of Education develops world-class graduate teachers who embody the University’s mission “to transform lives and societies”. They provide children all over Ireland with a life-enhancing education, the single most important investment any society can make. The University’s concern for improving Irish society and enhancing the human condition is expressed in the many ways that its research community tackles problems such as dementia, cancer diagnosis, bullying, conflict resolution and a host of other issues that demand attention. DCU People DCU recognises the importance of retaining and developing excellent staff members. To this end the HR team manages a complex set of policies, procedures and initiatives in collaboration with management across the University. Retention and

motivation are achieved through a range of initiatives, including career and leadership development, recognition schemes, coaching and mentoring, engagement programmes and a focus on inclusion and belonging. DCU’s HR team is very proud of the following achievements: The formal launch of a revised online Performance Review & Development (PRD) scheme in April 2021 and the Athena Swan Bronze Award confirming the University’s commitment to gender equality. A significant number of colleagues were certified through DCU’s suite of leadership programmes and the University launched its essential eLearning suite of programmes as well as successfully migrating to insight reporting and delivering the MakoData Dashboard to support management decision-making. DCU also extended the University’s Autism Friendly Initiative to staff, which commits it to building capacity throughout the University to support autistic employees. In addition to the above, the University launched the Annual President’s Recognition Awards in 2021, which recognise and celebrate staff who make valuable contributions to the University. HR has supported colleagues across the University by providing an uninterrupted HR service delivery to staff and stakeholders during the pandemic as well as supporting a seamless transition back onto the campus post-pandemic.

The Executive MBA at DCU Business School An educational experience that is both professionally and personally transformative. A key feature of our MBA, aimed at developing business leaders with the enterprise and ambition to help create a better, more sustainable world, is its leading edge thinking with tangible application. For further details, please contact us at mba@dcu.ie or scan the QR code.

Ireland’s Largest Independent Delivery Network Supply Chain Firm of the Year

Handling over 24 million parcels annually as the delivery partner to over 7,000 domestic and international clients, Fastway is Ireland’s largest independent delivery network.

FASTWAY Founded in Ireland in 2002, Fastway is part of the recently formed Nuvion group. Offering a diverse portfolio of flexible delivery, returns, click and collect, e-commerce, and logistic business solutions nationwide and internationally. For 20 years, Fastway has been connecting businesses and people through the movement of goods whilst maintaining an industry-leading 98.5% delivered/attempted target SLA. Over the last few years, Fastway has achieved significant growth in terms of revenue, volume and innovation and has a clear ambition of becoming Ireland’s largest and most comprehensive end-to-end e-commerce service provider. Fastway has had challenges to overcome, including the sustainable expansion of infrastructure and facilities, and the introduction of gas trucks and electric vehicles to afford customers a more environmentally friendly delivery service. Managing Director, Mark van Niekerk, remarks: “We have even planted the Fastway forest!” The company’s head office in Greenogue is a fully carbon-neutral facility and features a substantial investment in solar panels, rainwater harvesting and recycling as well as natural and LED lighting, electric car charging and energy usage monitors.

Fastway is innovating to stay ahead and has introduced initiatives such as Inflight Options which enable parcel receivers to change their delivery destination when their parcel is already en-route. Another innovation, Containerisation, rolled out earlier this year, provides full visibility of every parcel’s journey, reducing errors and mis-sorts, and increasing accountability for everyone. The Fastway approach to courier services is unique. Its Courier Franchisees, who are owneroperators, offer a cost-effective, reliable, timetable courier service, backed up by the latest computer technology and online parcel track and trace facilities. Fastway also operates Parcel Connect - Ireland’s largest Pick-Up and Drop-Off service (PUDO) and returns network, with over 1,300 collection and send points around Ireland. Mark remarks on the Fastway philosophy saying: “We’re all about delighting customers at the door and exceeding expectations.” The company uses several methods of identifying customers’ needs including social listening, research, feedback from Courier Franchisees, and talking with clients and parcel receivers. “At the heart of Fastway’s business are the Courier Franchisees and employees – they are the lifeblood of the business. Every department

and every team member plays a significant role in Fastway’s success,” says Mark. The company has won several awards, which acknowledge its unwavering commitment to bringing innovation to the industry and setting itself apart from its competitors while exceeding customer expectations. On future plans Mark comments: “This year, Nuvion, a pioneering house of brands, is set to revolutionise the logistics landscape, and Fastway is very proud to be part of the recently formed Nuvion group. In the coming weeks and months, Fastway will introduce new offerings and services to the market, which will result in simplifying the experience for clients, while offering an enhanced, yet more sustainable future for parcel senders and receivers. “One of the greatest lessons I have learned, is to work in this business, you must have worked at the heart of the business as a courier franchisee,” says Mark. “We connect business with people, through the movement of goods, and that final mile delivery is key to success. This is what Fastway is known for – delighting the customer at the door.” He concludes: “We believe in innovation, and being bold, brave and unafraid. What we do is simple. We transform complex logistics challenges into innovative simple solutions.”

VIRGIN DDoS MITIGATION UP TO 6 MONTHS

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Get in touch: 1800 941 941 virginmedia.ie/business 3 months free when signing up to a 24-month contract or 6 months free when signing up to a 36-month contract. New connections only. T&C's apply. Offer ends 31/12/23.

Virgin Media Business is part of Liberty Global, the world’s largest international cable company, with operations in over 30 countries. It is Ireland’s fastest broadband network and home of the best-connected entertainment.

Broadband Provider of the Year to the Public Sector Award

VIRGIN MEDIA BUSINESS The lessons of recent years have taught us that internet connectivity holds an essential role in conducting business. Whether it’s for a large enterprise, small business or an emerging startup, the internet stands as an indispensable tool for establishing connections with customers and partners. The crux of the matter is that the internet serves as a vital tool for business operations but for effective utilisation of the internet, businesses must select a provider capable of offering suitable products and support services to ensure successful outcomes. And that is, in essence, what Virgin Media Business is all about. Their mantra “Building Connections that really matter” is embedded into their ethos as a company. Not only does Virgin Media Business cater to enterprises of all sizes, providing high-speed internet services, along with data, fixed and mobile voice services, they’re going bigger and bolder.

Towards the end of 2022, Virgin Media Business announced it’s plan to invest €200 million to upgrade its broadband network to full fibre over the next three years. The initiative, which will also result in the creation of 500 jobs, will extend fibre coverage to over one million homes and businesses, enabling speeds of up to 10Gbps (Gigabits per second), —approximately ten times faster than the current peak speed. “This investment solidifies our commitment to deliver top-tier digital connectivity to both consumers and businesses throughout Ireland. Our dedication translates into making ordinary experiences extraordinary by providing rapid and dependable fibre broadband services in new regions across the country,” says Niamh Foley, Enterprise Sales Manager at Virgin Media Business. The partnership between Virgin Media Business and Siro, which was unveiled in 2022, is amplifying the network reach,

extending it to cover 70% of all premises in Ireland. “It’s not just about enhancing our own capabilities, but also about serving the best interests of our customers” says Niamh. “Our daily mission involves delivering superior connectivity to Irish businesses, enabling their growth. We have a strong desire to expand our coverage nationwide and in pursuit of that goal, strategic partnerships and continuous investments are key.” Virgin Media Business provide services to all sectors of the Irish business landscape, from retail to hospitality and from the public sector to gaming. Irrespective of business size, connectivity provides the necessary flexibility for efficient operations, whether that’s working from home or interacting with customers and suppliers. Broadband has evolved into a utility as essential as electricity and water, with the past three years showing how important it is to keep us all connected.

“Virgin Media Business are committed to providing reliable broadband, contributing to customers’ business growth and bringing delightfully surprising technology to the market. Prioritising quality, we consistently strive to deliver heartfelt service and value for money”, Niamh mentions. The Virgin Media Brand in Ireland is synonymous with quality, yet they do not rest on their laurels when it comes to nurturing customers. Consistent performance in delivering award-winning customer service and efficient delivery shows the importance of ongoing investment in maintaining this level of service. For the thriving landscape of small businesses, Virgin Media Business offers a portfolio of products that allows customers the flexibility to work how they want, when they want. With broadband speeds of 500Mb and 1Gb, along with voice options, TV packages, and versatile WiFi solutions, they provide the tools for their customers to embark on their journeys to success. Since its introduction in 2018, Virgin Media Business Mobile services has also displayed steady growth. Businesses can choose from

a variety of plans that suit their specific demands, accompanied by an extensive range of mobile devices and handsets. Medium and large businesses are also offered a diverse range of products that are tailored to meet their needs. This includes Dedicated Internet Access ranging from 1Gb to 10Gb, in addition to SIP Trunking Voice solutions. “Our products extend from Carrier and Metro Ethernet services to Licensed Microwave and IP Transit, seamlessly bridging IPv4 and IPv6 for uninterrupted network connectivity.”, says Niamh. “We also provide tailor-made WiFi solutions and DDoS Mitigation services, all designed to match diverse business requirements across the nation.” Over recent years, Virgin Media Business has also proudly held the role of headline sponsor for the Gold Medal Awards, recognised as the leading independent awards for the Irish hospitality sector. Last year alone, the awards witnessed over 460 entries from 150 establishments, such as hotels, guest houses, country houses, restaurants, cafés, bars and catering companies across the country. The awards night generated a significant impact

Towards the end of 2022, Virgin Media Business announced plans to invest 200 million to upgrade its broadband network to full fibre over the next three years. The initiative will extend fibre coverage to over one million homes and businesses, enabling speeds of up to 10Gbps (Gigabits per second) approximately ten times faster than the current peak speed.

Internet connectivity plays an essential role in conducting business. Whether for a large enterprise, small business or an emerging startup, the internet is an indispensable tool for establishing connections with customers and partners.

Excellence in

“To receive not one but two awards for Best Broadband Provider and Best Connectivity Solutions for 2023 is an absolute honour and a testament to all the hard work we have been putting in to ensuring that we provide the best broadband service in Ireland for all our customers, now and into the future.”

Connectivity Solutions Award

on social media, reaching over 4 million people through mentions and interactions on various platforms, showing that industry is recovering well, post pandemic and growth in that sector is encouraging. To nurture customer relationships, Virgin Media Business maintains a blog, regular newsletters and white papers that inform businesses about all things tech-related. “Staying connected through these channels and sharing our in-house knowledge is crucial. Our aim is to facilitate our customers growth, success and evolution and we are dedicated to helping them achieve that”, continues Niamh. In the current tech-driven climate, businesses seek a dependable foundation of connectivity along with a trusted partner invested in long-term collaboration. The growth strategy for Virgin Media Business shows enduring commitment to the Irish market, manifested through investments in platforms and infrastructure that empower customers to harness the digital revolution. And this is why they are Public Sector Magazine’s winners of Broadband Provider of the Year 2023 and Excellence in Providing Connectivity Solutions to the Public Sector Award 2023.

Public Sector Award 2023 is an absolute honour, and a testament to all the hard work we have been putting into ensuring that we provide the best broadband service in Ireland for all our customers, now and into the future,” concludes Niamh, “Going forward, the ambition at Virgin Media Business is to continue to focus on building connections that really matter, through investments and

strategic partnerships. Our distinct value propositions - customer service, network and reliability - constitute the bedrock of our offerings and continual improvement across these three pillars remains our commitment. We strive to deliver best-in-class business services and support every day and that’s what we’ll continue to do.”

“To receive these awards for Broadband Provider of the Year 2023 and Excellence in Providing Connectivity Solutions to the

MCR GROUP

Proudly Providing Security Services to the Public Sector Since 1996 MCR Group has been one of the largest providers of outsourced staff and services in Ireland, with a workforce of over 3,500 employees. The MCR Group provides a range of Security, Cleaning, Engineering and Personnel services. The Group has a nationwide network of trained staff providing a range of services to public, government, healthcare corporate, commercial, industrial and construction clients. Afﬁnity Concierge was launched in 2019, which offers a diverse range of concierge amenities and services tailored to meet the needs of our clients through a specialised, focused training plan developed in-house by our team. MCR Group 4-5 The Capel Building Dublin 7 Tel: 01 8899 100 Emai: info@mcr.ie Web: www.mcrgroup.ie

Excellence in Security Solutions Ireland’s Leading Outsourced Staff and Service Provider

MCR Group, a leading provider of outsourced staff and services in Ireland since 1996, offers security, recruitment, cleaning, and engineering services. MCR prioritises tailored, customer-centric solutions and fosters an inclusive workplace, valuing diverse experiences.

MCR GROUP Since 1996, MCR Group has become a leading provider of outsourced staff and services in Ireland. The firm’s success is attributed to tailored solutions, delivering top-notch services across diverse sectors, and meeting specific client needs. Guided by core values, MCR fosters inclusivity and sustainability through initiatives like ÍON. Continuously evolving, the firm is well-positioned for future growth. MCR Group demonstrated remarkable adaptability in overcoming diverse challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic. The company swiftly responded with safety measures and innovative solutions to meet increased demands. Fostering an inclusive workplace addressed retention and recruitment hurdles, market demand and growth were managed through service expansion, while regulatory compliance was ensured through continuous audits. MCR Group constantly strives to be the best of the best, as Security Operations Director Tony Malone explains: “At MCR Group, we prioritise continuous innovation and adaptation to stay current in the everchanging marketplace. Ongoing research, customer feedback and market analysis help us understand evolving needs. We update our services to cater to diverse sectors, ensuring relevance and effectiveness. Professional development keeps our team informed and skilled. Our culture of flexibility allows us to swiftly respond to market shifts, staying at the forefront of industry developments.

“MCR Group stands out by offering a wide range of services (security, recruitment, cleaning, engineering) all in one place. This unique approach caters to diverse sectors, prioritising tailored solutions for each client. Our commitment to excellence, compliance, and customer satisfaction fosters lasting partnerships. We also emphasize sustainability, social responsibility and inclusivity, showcasing our positive environmental and community impact. This makes MCR Group an industry leader.” At MCR Group, people are the priority. The firm tailors bespoke solutions for each unique client, driven by a commitment to excellence. Open communication and feedback fuel continuous improvement. MCR’s customercentric approach builds lasting, trustworthy relationships while embracing sustainability and social responsibility to create a better world for clients and communities. MCR Group puts customers first. Regular feedback and market analysis keep the firm updated on evolving preferences. The dedicated team ensures swift, seamless service delivery. At MCR Group, key staff members are crucial to the firm’s success and client satisfaction. MCR prioritises staff development, offering competitive remuneration, benefits and recognition. This, combined with a supportive and inclusive culture, fosters loyalty and belonging while growth opportunities motivate the team.

MCR Group has achieved significant business milestones, becoming Ireland’s leading outsourced staff and services provider. The nationwide network and diverse service offerings across sectors like healthcare, retail, pharmaceuticals and more have contributed to the firm’s success. Key achievements include swift adaptation during the Covid-19 pandemic, meeting increased demands at healthcare sites and delivering innovative solutions to clients. MCR Group has ambitious expansion plans. The firm plans to diversify its services, explore new industries, and deepen expertise in existing areas. Investing in cutting-edge technologies will enhance efficiency. Sustainability is a priority, and the company will continue initiatives like ÍON. Strategic partnerships and employee development will strengthen its capabilities. Aligning with market demands, MCR aims for continued growth and success. According to Tony, putting people first is his greatest lesson in business. “Building strong relationships with clients, employees and partners drives our success. Tailored solutions and active listening foster long-term partnerships. We value our team’s dedication and prioritise their wellbeing and growth. This customer-centric and employee-focused approach positions MCR Group as an industry leader, positively impacting lives.”

Outstanding Contribution Development & Implementation of AI Strategy to Businesses in Ireland

CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for Applied AI, is a market-focused technology centre that drives the accelerated development, deployment and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and innovation for the benefit of companies and public sector organisations in Ireland.

CeADAR The primary work of the centre is cuttingedge innovation in AI and translating that into deploy-ready solutions for companies. CeADAR equally supports Irish start-ups, small-medium enterprises (SMEs) and multinational companies (MNCs) in bringing cutting-edge technology to commercial application. The company’s extensive catalogue of industry prototypes of AI and analytics´ tools are all available at no charge for member companies to evaluate on their premises. CeADAR also provides consultancy services for companies offering an assessment of AI readiness, scoping of solutions, assessment of data, and development of technical roadmaps for companies to accelerate their AI deployments and capabilities. CeADAR is a not-for-profit organisation funded by Enterprise Ireland and the IDA with headquarters in NexusUCD, Belfield Office Park. Backed by the Irish Government, CeADAR’s mission is to develop tools, technology and techniques to help Irish companies across any sector to build sustained competitive advantage using AI.

This year CeADAR has been awarded European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) status, bringing in over €14 million in funding, creating 18 new positions and allowing CeADAR to continue to expand its reach to an increasing number of SMEs and Public Service Organisations. As the only Applied AI organisation In Ireland to be granted EDIH status, CeADAR joins 136 tech hubs in the EDIH network from over 27 EU Member States. Clients that engage with the EDIH network will benefit from access to specialist training, business test cases and project feasibility work designed to increase their utilisation of AI technologies. They will also be offered AI Maturity Assessments, which will signpost what support the EDIH will provide as companies move along their AI journey. In 2020, CeADAR was selected by the EU’s Big Data Value Association (BDVA) to be one of only nine Gold-accredited data innovation spaces (i-Spaces) in the EU. In 2019 CeADAR won the NASA prize for a satellite application that supported populations displaced by conflict in the Middle East.

A unique feature of CeADAR is the bespoke development of multiple industry prototypes that ensures the firm and its member companies are always at the forefront of the market and developing novel AI solutions for companies. CeADAR works in close collaboration with Irish industry and currently has over 90 member companies working on a range of projects and programmes including innovation partnership programmes, disruptive technology innovation projects, Horizon Europe programmes, and contracted R&D. The centre is commissioning its own high-performance computing infrastructure which will be made available to all member companies. Growth & Expansion CeADAR has grown rapidly over the past eight years. The centre has a large complement of full-time professional staff which has grown to a team of over 70 engaged in CeADARfunded projects today. CeADAR’s ability to adapt and transform businesses has driven the rapid growth of the centre, particularly over the past five years.

The centre has maintained a dedicated workforce committed to developing new and emerging solutions for companies in Ireland. CeADAR’s intellectual capital means the centre can support any size of company across any industry vertical. CeADAR launched AINewsHub in 2022, an easy-to-use digital news platform for reliable information on global developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning, both of which use AI and highlights the growing importance of AI nationally and globally. The AINewsHub platform sources information from reputable media and publishing outlets and the AI system within AINewsHub employs natural language processing to automatically summarise each article, saving readers time. The next generation of AINewHub will be revealed in 2023 with increased search and social sharing capabilities. Over the past five years with the acceleration of digital transformation, particularly in the post-pandemic era, digital solutions have become more fundamental to business

activities. The rapid advance of new digital tools, data policies and regulation demands that employees are well-trained to utilise these new platforms efficiently.

leading digital innovation hub in Europe, supporting a thriving national ecosystem that can connect with the wider EU network and accelerate Ireland’s adoption of AI.

An increasing number of companies are using the centre to help them provide training to exploit the newest technology and upskill their workforce. This rapid move to a digital-centric world means many Irish companies must quickly adapt and deploy new technologies to compete and maintain competitive advantage. In this new digital world, CeADAR can support companies in developing roadmaps for CEOs to employ a structured adoption of new technologies to offer cost efficiencies and increased productivity.

Some examples of CeADAR projects include machine-learning technology deployed by SSE Airtricity that optimises energy production from wind farms, using analytics and sensored tractors to improve crop yield for farmers; natural language processing for analysing financial regulatory documents; a blockchain application to ensure the provenance of digital assets; inspection robotics; quality assurance in production lines using computer vision; analytics and prediction in contact/call centres and early prediction of the failure of large capital equipment.

CeADAR is a leading player supporting the national agenda of a digital economy and, more specifically, addressing the societal impacts of AI by utilising AI to solve societal challenges, promoting AI adoption with Irish enterprise and advocating for ethical and human-centric approaches in AI systems. CeADAR has the ambition to become a

ACETECH is regenerating the Emergency Services field with its ground-breaking technology that powers emergency service fleets to top performance. From singular solutions that can be tailored to specific needs, to an integrated solution that enables all aspects of emergency fleet management.

Best Intelligent Software Products and Solutions Provider to Emergency Services

ACETECH ACETECH creates the hardware and software products to power true performance. Through its intelligent software platforms and hardware devices, the firm provides real-time emergency focused vehicle intelligence; asset intelligence; in-vehicle controls and sustainability solutions that drive real savings on time, money and the environment. ACETECH has seen strong growth consistently over the last few years as demand for its products and services grows and word of how the company can create substantial savings, while enhancing safety and minimizing risk for its clients’ has spread. Strong growth in the US, Canada, Australia, European and Middle Eastern markets has seen an expansion of its teams, with new offices opening and new personnel in sales, technical, field engineers and support positions. In Europe, ACETECH now has teams in place in France and Spain and has

increased staff numbers at its global HQ in Ireland. ACETECH is continually striving to ensure it remains current in an ever-evolving industry and to stay one step ahead of the competition as European Sales & Marketing Director Laurent Couderc explains: “Our teams are constantly in communication with the Emergency Service teams, ensuring we are growing with their needs. ACETECH continually develops and innovates new products. With our extensive in-house hardware and software development teams, we ensure our products are cutting-edge and at the forefront of technology. Our systems are developed with emergency services in mind, so many of our features are unavailable from our competitors, focusing on a much broader market segment. “ACETECH products create a fully connected fleet and provide a 360-degree view of your

vehicles so you can monitor and improve performance at all times. Our cutting-edge technology incorporates hardware and intelligent software platforms that combine to give unparalleled data to help transform your fleet. “Designed by emergency fleet innovators, our deep understanding of the EMS industry and how it operates allows us to create a system that integrates essential EMS technologies and medical supplies. “As ACETECH continues to gain traction around the world, we have a strong focus on being emergency services customercentric, as that is what differentiates us from competitors and has been our main priority since the beginning. We only try to improve our approach rather than change it, as our customer relations methods are tried and trusted.

“Even though we are expanding and growing, this strategy has allowed us to increase sales and support personnel, giving more time to our customers and ensuring that the customer experience of our products and software is optimized. From the start of the customer interaction to project completion, we remain fully engaged and ready to tackle any issue that could arise to establish a positive relationship with each customer.” Customer Support The customer is firmly at the core of ACETECH’s business philosophy, without which the firm would not succeed, so everything is designed and developed with the customer in mind and based on their input and feedback. ACETECH’s Vision Zero road map puts at its core the focus of driving down towards a zero emissions and zero deaths equivalent in the EMS Industry.

ACETECH provides a comprehensive support team to address the unique support requirements of EMS and fleet services. The firm is aware of the urgency and efficiency required for emergency services to operate and knows that chaos does not need more chaos. ACETECH is a solution provider, providing solutions, support, and recommendations. The firm is an extension of its clients’ support network. By working with their clients, the ACETECH team can ensure excellent service and always keep the client’s needs in mind. ACETECH does not wait for its clients to reach out for support. The team can predict when they will have an issue and is proactive about it to prevent the problem before it happens. Laurent places great emphasis on the importance of ACETECH’s staff, as he explains: “Staff are the lifeblood of any

company and developing the best talent is the hallmark of every top business ACETECH is no different. ACETECH works tirelessly for our staff in much the same way they work tirelessly for us, and as such we reward them through competitive salaries, additional benefit packages and bonuses. But that is not all - the product of our work is also key to motivation and retention. The team can leave work in the evening knowing that they have contributed to society by supporting the emergency services. Communication, training and our values of trust, respect, innovation and collaboration provide an enjoyable working environment where every employee knows they can make a difference.”

ACETECH™ is a global manufacturer of vehicle intelligence management software, specialist safety & eco-friendly modules and intelligent electronic control units. ACETECH™ solutions integrate seamlessly into your vehicles to enhance performance, improve safety and revolutionize the installed worldwide, we are the leader of high-tech vehicle systems that provide you the user with unmatched data from

ACETECH Services Improve Fleet Safety

• Real-time in-cab driver coaching • Reduce Preventable crashes by 80% • Expert on-site safety training

World Leaders 5 continents.

Reduce Operational Costs

Global Brand

Powerful Fleet Analytics

Client Oriented

• Reduce fuel consumption by 10% or more • Reduce maintenance expenses by 30% or more • Nearly eliminate critical failures

• Journey Replay, Fleet Daily Activity & Fleet Utilization • Fleet Idle & Fuel Consumption • Fleet Maintenance History and Schedules • Driver Safety - Speeding, G-Force, Seatbelts, Unsafe Reverse • Fleet Geofence & Response Time • Engine Errors, Battery Levels and more

with products in 50+ Countries.

with over 100 Loyal Customers.

Innovation Focused

with over 65,000 products shipped.

Award Winning

dedicated team of professionals.

a multi award winning company

info@acetech.com | www.acetech.com

ie.apleona.com

Realise your potential with a trusted facilities management provider

Facility Management services tailored to you

Security Reception/concierge services Sustainable facilities management solutions Mechanical & electrical utilities Critical environment Workplace catering & hospitality Workspace 24/7/365 helpdesk

WHY CHOOSE US

Realising Your Facilities' Potential

ie.apleona.com

OUR CULTURE

OUR VALUES

OUR MISSION

Championing sustainability, leadership, and integrity. Offering efficient, effective, and reliable services. Inspiring equality, teamwork, and respect. Growing opportunities for creativity and innovation. Encouraging inclusive communication and the sharing of ideas and opinions, we aim to create an environment that fosters creativity, teamwork, and equality.

To develop innovative solutions tailored to our clients’ businessdelivering sustainable performance, improved technology, and value added IFM services.

With 40+ years of experience and expertise, we are part of a global business providing total facility management services across Ireland. We improve operational processes for public and private sector customers through our marketleading facilities management services tailored to your business.

OUR SERVICES Integrated facilities management services Life science & healthcare Property Technology/commu nications Banking & financial services Cleaning Consultancy services Innovative solutions

ABOUT US

At Apleona Ireland, we believe that a strong culture and a fulfilled team are the foundation of our success – with collaboration, innovation, and empowerment at their core. Apleona Ireland embodies diversity and acknowledges the strength that inclusive communication brings to our employees.

Over the last 40 years, we have built a specialised range of bespoke Facility Management services and solutions. Each service is tailored to the client’s needs and is seamlessly delivered by our teams through a tried and tested self-delivery model.

service.irl@apleona.com

Landscape House, Landscape Rd, Churchtown, D14 A6P3, Dublin

Excellence in Providing Total Facility Management Solutions

Originally established under a different guise in 1974, the Apleona of today has significantly expanded its operations to take its current place as one of Europe’s leading real estate and facilities management companies.

APLEONA Apleona employs over 40,000 employees operating in over 30 countries, with 1600 personnel employed in Ireland. Apleona’s mantra focuses on realising potential for both clients and their own employees. Managing Director of Apleona Ireland, Ray Casey, explains: “Our customers are our partners. We put ourselves in our clients’ shoes and put their operations and needs first. This philosophy has enhanced our reputation and growth, both in Ireland and across our international operations”. Apleona’s reputation and growth are also attributable to its performance and response to the challenges posed by the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. In alignment with the company’s ethos, Apleona approached these challenges with a solution-based focus, efficiently redirecting assets and resources towards safeguarding its staff while ensuring the maintenance of maximum support to its clients, in doing so, assisting them in realising their potential. Supporting their client-first focus, Casey presents that “We identify and satisfy our client’s needs by listening to them and encouraging and fostering open communication so that we fully understand

their needs. By listening, we can develop a specific plan and methodologies to ensure that we deliver a best-in-class service.” To ensure that Apleona retains its place at the forefront of facilities management service delivery in Ireland, the firm focusses on enhancing staff capabilities, onboarding new services, developing client specific software and applications and maintaining close alliances with their European partners. The result is a resilient, robust and innovative business model that can ensure the delivery of services to clients, even in the most challenging of situations. In preserving its place at the head of the market, Casey explains, “Apleona’s business model is centered around selfdelivery of the services we provide to our clients; a business model that has helped us grow quickly. Our clients have come to recognise the benefits of this model, for example, no middleman costs, direct communication with senior management, knowledge sharing and retention, alongside faster backup and response time, to name but a few.”

Apleona also strongly focuses on internal development of its own personnel, ensuring that staff members remain the centre of gravity of all successful operations. Continuous professional development of staff creates an environment conducive to internal growth and progression, where personnel can retain ownership of their own career development and advancement. In providing personalised educational and training programmes, Apleona enables staff members to envisage a defined career path that is both realistic and achievable. As a current market leader in the provision of integrated facilities management to numerous sectors, Apleona is actively engaged in further development and enhancement of the self-delivery model as well as further integration of its European partners so that Irish clients can avail of the latest market technologies and best industry trends to further assist in realising their potential.

Excellence in Public Sector Support Services Data Protection Company of the Year

XpertDPO was established to provide industry-leading data protection services to clients within Ireland, the UK and further afield. Today, the firm offers outsourced data protection officer services, data protection compliance services, ISO 27001 / 27701 implementation services and System and Organisation Control (SOC) reporting services in Ireland, Europe, the USA, the UAE and Asia.

XpertDPO Formed in 2018, the business has grown exponentially, notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff numbers have increased in line with revenue growth and client acquisition. According to founder and CEO Stuart Anderson, a high percentage of business is acquired through referrals, with many of XpertDPO’s clients coming via introductions from clients that have worked with them previously. “These referrals are worth many times any marketing spend,” Stuart notes. The information security and governance market has grown since 2018 when the GDPR became enforceable. Many organisations that formed during that time have now moved on to other industry sectors. XpertDPO only hires the best staff and constantly monitors any legal decisions or changes to relevant regulations or legislation to ensure that all clients benefit from the latest advice and guidance. Stuart explains that XpertDPO strives to stand out from the competition. “First and foremost, we ensure our clients are on board with our ethos. We do not believe that the GDPR or any other regulation is a blocker to doing business. It is imperative

for us that we align the information security and governance program to the business objectives. If the client intends to scale the company and double staff, enter new territories or even exit the business in the coming months and years, then the infosec program must enable this. “By using a top-down approach, where the program is supported by senior management, XpertDPO can deliver an information security and governance program that enables the client to meet their business objectives and protect value. “That is the value of the business, protecting reputation and, therefore, protecting the business from fines or legal action due to non-compliance or data breaches,” Stuart adds. “Our customer service philosophy is very simple. We provide a first-class service to clients for a fair price. The emphasis is on delivering the right guidance and advice in a timely fashion for a very fair price. We are also very open with our clients; we understand the need to keep the lines of communication open. Ultimately, we aim to build robust, long-term relationships with our clients.”

When it comes to personnel, XpertDPO is highly selective of employees that join the team, with every staff member being an expert in their own right in their chosen field. In terms of staff retention, the firm operates a flexible working day. The main objective is that projects are delivered on time and that ultimately, clients are looked after and happy. All staff are empowered to have responsibility for the clients assigned to them with the freedom to deliver those programs under their control. For XpertDPO, the only requirement is that projects are delivered to the highest quality and that clients are happy. XpertDPO has been highly successful in winning public sector tender competitions over the last number of years and attracting a lot of business from outside the EU. The firm is widely recognised as the leading expert in its field. Looking to the future, XpertDPO has plans to expand its footprint into the UAE. With a growing number of clients across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, the firm anticipates that the next step will be opening a physical office in the region.

Excellence in Public Sector Fire & Gas Detection Services Support Award

With a turnover in 2022 of over €390m and 1,250 employees worldwide, Ei Electronics commands a global leadership position as a manufacturer of residential fire and gas detection products.

Ei ELECTRONICS Ei Electronics is 100% Irish owned and has been in existence for over 55 years. Some 30 years ago it became a fully-fledged Irish company after a management buy-out from General Electric under the direction of CEO Mick Guinee in 1988. Mick still retains the role of CEO and chairman of the group. Today Ei Electronics is one of the most significant employers in Ireland’s midwest. Ei ranks as one of Ireland’s largest indigenous manufacturing and exporting electronics companies. It occupies a 32,000m2 campus in Shannon where all business functions are headquartered; R&D, sales and marketing, manufacturing, customer service and finance and administration. With customers in over 30 countries worldwide, Ei also employs an additional 100 people in its five wholly-owned overseas subsidiaries in the UK, Germany, France, the USA and Australia, bringing the total headcount today to over 1,250. Over 90% of turnover is accounted for by exports, the primary overseas markets today being the UK, Germany, France, USA, The Netherlands and Australia.

In December 2022, Ei announced that it had acquired its Sydney based Australian Distributor Brooks PTY. Employing 35 people throughout Australia, Brooks is the leading supplier of fire detection products to the territory’s residential and commercial sectors. Founded in 1977, the Brooks name is synonymous with quality and innovation. Today, the company occupies a leading position in the market, particularly with key public and community housing associations across all states. Earlier in 2022 the company completed the expansion of its Shannon campus. The new development comprises a 3-storey, 10,000m2 building adjoining its existing headquarters. It includes additional manufacturing capacity, R&D, and office space, to significantly expand its current production capacity. The expansion plans underpin a strategy of maintaining 100% of manufacturing in Shannon, in addition to the co-location of other key functions on a single site. January 2020 saw the opening of its new UK headquarters in Oswestry, Shropshire. This also coincided with the 30th anniversary of Ei’s UK subsidiary Aico. This came on the back of an expansion of Ei’s German facility in 2019.

July 2020 saw the acquisition of Bristol-based company HomeLINK to further expand Ei’s footprint in the Connected Home and IoT arena. A suite of environmental sensor solutions developed jointly by Ei and HomeLINK was brought to market in the middle of 2021. Over the years, Ei has added a range of valueadded monitoring, management and data extraction software tools to its product suite, to enable interconnectivity between devices and local and remote control of complete installations. The most recent gateway and remote inspection product launches mark the transition to the cloud-based management of systems, further increasing ease of management and compliance and reducing overall cost of ownership. Ei’s fire detection and carbon monoxide products have kept families safe in their homes for generations – both in Ireland and globally. Today, as the company embarks on its next phase of double-digit growth, its core sensor technology will ensure it remains at the forefront of emerging cloud-based “Connected Home” and IOT developments.

Simplify & Optimise your Workforce Management Learn more about why so many organisations use Softworks to manage employee time, attendance, flexible working, rostering, HR, holidays and absences

Trusted by leading public sector organisations for over 30 years

further information about Softworks For furtherFor information about Softworks Solutions.Solutions Contact us today on

01527 888on060 01 286 6126 (Ireland) | hello@softworks.com Contact us today 01 (UK) 286| 6126 | hello@softworks.com | softworks.com

Established in 1990, Softworks has grown exponentially and internationally, with over 100 employees in six countries.

Excellence in Software Solutions Workforce Management Company of the Year

SOFTWORKS The company’s workforce management software helps organisations manage employee time and attendance, flexitime/ flexible working (blended working), e-scheduling, skills, regulatory compliance, and HR requirements. Using Softworks helps clients move away from manual-based processes to work more efficiently, control costs and improve employee satisfaction. CEO Andrew Ferguson has seen many challenges over the years including economic downturns and more recently Covid, which by its very nature created an entirely different challenge for Softworks. Due to existing flexible working arrangements, however, and a team spirit mentality, the company adapted quickly, learned what worked and continued to thrive. “We have overcome these challenges through a consistent focus on providing a superior solution to solve our customers’ workforce management challenges,”

Andrew explains. “This means that even when we compete to win business, potential clients can quickly see how we add value so that we win business despite challenging and competitive conditions. “We listen closely to customer feedback and are proactive in monitoring changes in regulations related to employment, health and safety and data protection. This ensures that our customers can adhere to those regulations and demonstrate compliance. “Long before Covid forced people into flexible and remote working, our software was able to track employee time and attendance for flexible workers simply because we listened to our clients and knew what was needed.”

“We are very conscious of our software’s importance in keeping our client organisations running smoothly,” Andrew adds. What makes Softworks different is how configurable and feature-rich it is, so each customer uses the software in a way that 100% reflects how they manage their employees. Competitive products, by contrast, force customers to adjust how they work to match the software - a recipe for dissatisfied employees. Another key differentiator for Softworks is that pricing compares very favourably to competitors while consistently matching or exceeding their functionality. Additionally, on a purely practical level, Softworks customers always comment on just how easy to use and intuitive the software is.

Softworks is also highly focussed on IT security developments to ensure that the software is resilient and secure.

Customer Focus In recent years, the company has invested significantly in its helpdesk. It has hired a Customer Success Manager to ensure it seeks out and acts on customer feedback to help improve both its service and its product. It carries out periodic customer surveys, monitoring the helpdesk for any trends or issues that may arise, and account managers have close working relationships with their clients to solicit and receive feedback. As all development is carried out in-house, this feedback can be incorporated into software development and form part of the product roadmap. “We are truly customer/market lead. We don’t dream up new functionality and hope it’s of benefit to clients. Instead, we ask clients what problems we can help solve, how this might look and then deliver it,” explains Andrew. “Our experience has shown that if a handful of customers experience a specific

problem and we can help solve it, there is every chance that the rest of the industry is also experiencing similar issues.” “We have a talented team here in Softworks ranging from product development and testing to project managers, trainers, and customer service. The amount of knowledge and length of experience we have is just incredible and is something we work hard to retain.” One of the key benefits helping the retention of valuable employees at Softworks is the availability of flexitime which allows employees to balance work with other responsibilities. Since Covid, the company has adopted a hybrid working approach which has proven to be a key retention tool. There is also an active employee social group, a calendar of annual events, including summer and Christmas parties, and office treats such as takeaway Fridays, pizza

lunches and pastries on pay days. “We’ve adapted since Covid by treating employees to Friday takeaways on us so they can also treat their families,” Andrew adds. A positive work environment is just one of many achievements and has contributed to the company’s growth from a purely Irish base to serving clients in six countries. Softworks is expanding in Canada, the USA, Germany, and Italy, with new clients and new employees in these territories. “Our experience of expanding into these markets has shown us that there is significant unmet demand for our workforce management solutions across many industries, encouraging us to consider further opportunities to expand globally,” notes Andrew. “We continuously strive to make a positive difference to the working lives of our users, their organisations and their employees by focussing on excellence in the solution we provide as well as in our professional services and customer care.”

Leadership Programme of the Year IPOready

Euronext is a leading panEuropean market infrastructure operating the exchanges of Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Lisbon, Milan, Oslo and Paris. With close to 1,900 listed equity issuers and approximately €6.5 trillion in market capitalisation, these impressive figures result from Euronext’s transformative journey over the past years.

EURONEXT Since its IPO in 2001, Euronext has grown exponentially and diversified. Following the acquisitions of the Irish Stock Exchange in 2018, Oslo Børs VPS in 2019, Nord Pool, VP Securities in 2020, and the Borsa Italiana Group in 2021, The group has significantly grown in scale since 2018, doubling its market capitalisation and annual revenue. Euronext is now twice the size of the London Stock Exchange in terms of the aggregate market capitalisation of companies listed and in terms of average daily volumes traded. Today, Euronext operates seven national markets, four CSDs, and one European clearing house. The group serves customers in more than 20 countries globally and has enormously diversified its businesses. This growth in scale benefits Euronext clients and issuers, since they can now make the most of being listed on the deepest liquidity pool in Europe, with access to the largest range of institutional investors. Borsa Italiana will this year migrate to Euronext’s Optiq platform. This migration will allow all companies listed on Euronext to benefit from an even deeper liquidity pool, which is already the largest in Europe.

In the framework of this strong panEuropeanisation, IPOready Ireland now sits alongside TechShare as part of the group’s pre-IPO education initiatives. Both programmes train and support executive leaders in identifying the best tools for them to finance their growth journey. Euronext welcomed a record number of applications from companies keen to participate in the 2023 programme this year. In February 2019, it was Euronext Dublin’s turn to migrate to Euronext’s Optiq® platform. Euronext successfully migrated the trading of Irish shares to Euronext’s pan-EU trading platform. As part of the Euronext Group, Dublin benefits from the largest liquidity pool in Europe, with 25% of the shares traded in Europe currently being traded through Euronext markets. Since then, the group has increased the trading membership of Euronext Dublin from 21 to 35 members (a 60% growth since the Dublin market moved to Optiq in 2019), establishing Dublin as the centre of liquidity for Irish blue chip companies.

Market Advisory Committee Euronext established an Irish Market Advisory Committee with key stakeholders in 2022 to look at what measures the Irish equity capital markets ecosystem could adopt to be more attractive to companies looking at their funding options and for retail and institutional investors. The committee has since commissioned a third-party report to look at the economic value that listing in Ireland provides to the state, companies, investors, and the ecosystem to look at what other countries are doing to support the growth of their scaling companies and how Ireland/Europe can be more competitive. Euronext places great emphasis on staying current in a constantly changing business environment. “During 2022 we expanded our approved list of advisors for our junior Euronext Growth market,” explains Niall Jones, Head of Listing Ireland & UK. “We did this in conjunction with streamlining our rules with those on the continent, which made Ireland more accessible to a broader advisory community. We hope to see more SME listings in Ireland going forward, as is the norm in much of Europe.

“Even last year, which was a quiet year for IPO activity, we saw 83 new companies coming to Euronext’s seven markets. Euronext confirmed once again this year that it was the leading listing venue in Europe, far ahead of its European competitors,” Jones adds. “Of the 83 listings, 77 were SMEs or worth less than €1bn; indeed, the average SME raised €42m and had a value of €98m on listing, and about 50% were in technology-related sectors.” Euronext has had a record number of applications for the IPOready programme this year, and this follows a very turbulent market where risk appetite has diminished. An increasing number of founders and CEOs are looking at their funding options with an open mind to consider the IPO-route over the next few years. The group has selected 14 companies to proceed to the course in 2023 and are now, with Euronext’s support, committed to running a pre-IPO programme every year in Ireland. IPOready is a programme designed for CEOs and CFOs of growth companies that gives them the skillsets to evaluate their business’s best sources of finance. Euronext believes that being IPO ready is the highest form of readiness for any business, and if you are ready to IPO, you are ready for any financing event. Euronext runs the IPOready programme with its partners Enterprise Ireland and ISIF, who share the same goal of supporting

Irish companies to scale. It is an applied rather than academic model and attracts a lot of founders and business owners. The 2023 course began in January 2023. In other Euronext territories (and in Spain and CEE), the company runs TechShare, a course specifically aimed at private companies in the TMT, CleanTech and life science sectors, and IPOready also runs in Norway. Companies can take part if they can demonstrate a track record of growth and potential to accelerate revenues and can commit two senior executives (typically CEO, CFO, founder types) for the duration of the 6-month programme. Programme Delivery The programme is delivered through seminars, one-to-one mentoring, European campuses, and pitch days. Interactive Dublin-based seminars are delivered by a combination of advisors and leading Irish corporates, investors and entrepreneurs. Each participant company is allocated a mentor with extensive fundraising experience. This includes three one-to-one mentoring sessions to guide delegates through the programme and support them in developing their equity pitch and financing strategy. Usually twice a year, in January and June, campuses are organised in Rotterdam and Lisbon to facilitate networking between partners and participants on all Euronext pre-IPO programmes. These campuses include plenary keynotes, group workshops and insights from entrepreneurs.

On the course, participants will pitch their investment story to a panel of investors and gain insights into refining it. Euronext also organise one-to-one investor meetings on the course. The 2023 course ran from January to June this year and was roughly ten days in total – between the modules (3 x Dublin, 2 x European campuses) and pitch days. Over this time, delegates develop their understanding of capital markets, strategic financing options and which options are most suitable for their business. They learn how to get their business investment ready and understand the fund-raising process. In addition, they learn how to perfect an investment pitch and build a network of investors, advisors and entrepreneurs. The 2023 programme is now finished, but the team at Euronext Dublin has just launched the application process for the new 2024 cohort.

As part of the Euronext Group, Dublin benefits from the largest liquidity pool in Europe, with 25% of the shares traded in Europe currently being traded through Euronext markets.

Port and nature working side by side

Excellence in Financial Services Surety Specialists Bonding Solutions

As Ireland’s only specialist surety bonds intermediary, county Leitrim based Surety Bonds is a leading authority in bonding in Ireland, helping to fit the client and the needs of their principal with the right surety provider.

SURETY BONDS Managing Director Colm McGrath set up Surety Bonds in 2012 with the vision that it would be the go-to broker for bonds in Ireland and provide independent and objective advice that clients can trust. Colm says: "Our credibility in the market relies on trust; therefore, we believe in always working openly and honestly with the client." The company's small team has seen income grow 20% year-on-year, having doubled between 2019 and 2020. They currently generate in the region of €6 million in gross written premium and in 2022, have supported contract values of €1 billion in both private and public sector contracts. Colm explains: “We are experts in more complex projects such as public-private partnerships and can support Irish companies further afield including bank fronting.” As surety specialists, the company's expertise lies in bonds and guarantees only, and they do not undertake any general insurance business, so competition is less extensive. However, Colm believes the company's staff is a key differentiator. "Our staff are all highly qualified CIMA accountants, economists and post-graduates in International Finance,” he says. “These capabilities separate us at

an early stage as we already have financial expertise.” Expanding on his staff, Colm says: "Our team has expert experience and extensive knowledge of contract and bond requirements allowing them to deliver a tailored service efficiently whether the client requires a bond, indemnity or warranty. Each member of staff is crucial. They are motivated by personal growth and the challenges the job offers.” The experience and expertise within the company help reduce much of the hassle when obtaining bonds, as the team deals with all regulated providers of bonds and financial guarantees. Given that not all providers will be interested in every enquiry, the team’s knowledge allows them to target those companies and underwriters who they know will be interested in offering terms. This saves the client or broker valuable time and usually enables Surety Bonds to obtain terms speedily. Surety Bond's customer philosophy is to understand the client's business objectives and work with them to assist growth, including ensuring they have enough facilities to sustain that growth.

Colm shares his tactics for identifying customer needs: “Regular reviews - we probably talk to most of our clients on a weekly basis and meet with them quarterly to review progress and what else we could be doing to make their lives that little bit easier.” Every company faces its challenges, and it is no different for Surety Bonds as Colm explains, “Like all sectors, inflation has been a big issue, particularly hitting the construction industry which has a negative impact on their margins. We see surety providers now being more conservative when it comes to new contracts.” Reflecting on his business, Colm adds, “Every day is a surprise, whether it be Brexit, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine or the followon of higher inflation. You never know when a Black Swan event will happen, but you must be prepared to adapt and advise clients accordingly.” When asked if there are any exciting developments in the pipeline, Colm replies, “We will be expanding dramatically over the coming months…watch this space.”

Excellence in Automation Solutions Industrial Process

Horner APG designs, develops and markets automation hardware and software products for sale in the European Market and worldwide.

HORNER APG Horner APG Europe was established in Ireland in 1997 and has developed a sales network of over 20 European distributors and resellers, generating several million euros in sales. It has developed and adapted products for the European market, which has distinct requirements compared to its parent company’s USA market. Horner APG is part of Horner Automation based in Indianapolis, USA. This global parent company is a private company established in 1949 and managed by owners Phil and Alan Horner. The company developed and adapted products to meet the requirements of the European market and has participated in developing products for the worldwide market including the Middle East and Asia. Like many other companies, Horner faced numerous obstacles during recent years. The Covid 19 pandemic, component supply and Brexit, along with ever-increasing product costs, were challenges the company faced. Yet despite these challenges, the company has managed to remain competitive. During the pandemic, Horner developed new internal operating protocols, emphasized remote communications, and initiated a range of customer webinars replacing faceto-face contact. As an essential service, Horner continued to supply key customers in healthcare, water and agriculture.

As a result of the pandemic, raw material lead times increased from 18 to over 52 weeks along with a price hike of more than 30% on many items. Horner had to develop new forecasting techniques and partnerships with its customers to identify raw material requirements over such an extended lead time. Brexit had a negligible impact on sales, but most UK customers were happy to be supplied from Europe. Horner and its customers adapted their systems to ensure continued supply for the UK Market. Horner strives to remain competitive in an everchanging marketplace. “Staying competitive and maintaining supply is a challenge in the current environment but we feel this will improve in 2024,” says Brenda Cooper, Operations Manager. “Horner is an engineering company, and we pursue technological differentiation and customisation in our products and services to meet the needs of our customers and markets. We continually update and upgrade hardware and software to the latest technological advances. There are many competitors in the automation market but Horner offers Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), competitive and differentiated PLCs and IO to meet specific customer needs that larger, less agile companies cannot provide.” To stay ahead of the competition, Horner is quick to adopt new technology and works with

customers intending to adapt its products to meet the customers’ needs. Brenda explains: “At Horner, we provide products and services that delight, meet and exceed customer requirements. We utilise regular product and market reviews and customer engagement throughout the product innovation’s development and market phase, including the specification and beta testing phases.” Regarding its employees, Horner promotes a philosophy of lifelong learning and supports its staff to grow within the company. Many employees have been with the company for more than 25 years, and some since its startup. Employees are recognised throughout the company as key business assets. Strong links with local universities such as MTU, UCC and Tyndall help keep a flow of graduates available to develop new technology. Horner has some exciting new initiatives underway for 2023, including Cscape 10 - a new, more powerful software package. The project is in Beta with key customers and will be on the market early this year. It will provide the customer with new products that will embrace and integrate many automation digital technologies to support their future business needs in the Cloud, as well as remote working in a safe and secure environment. A progressive and proactive company, Horner supports a diverse and inclusive workforce and ensures its products are designed to respect the environment.

Public Awareness & Outreach National Census Publicity Campaign of the Year

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) is the national statistical agency of Ireland and is responsible for compiling independent, objective statistical information relating to Ireland’s people, society and economy.

CSO Kathleen Goulding and Eileen Murphy

Since its establishment in 1949, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has collated information with respect to Ireland in order to help people, organisations, government departments and businesses to live in an informed society. One of the most important tasks the CSO undertakes is conducting the Irish Census - the population count that occurs every five years and informs on a huge range of topics including demographics, marital status, education, employment, occupation, housing, ethnicity, religion, disabilities, carers, childcare and so on. The most recent Census in Ireland took place on 3rd April 2022. Census field staff including enumerators and supervisors worked nationwide to deliver and collect the census forms that were then transformed into a huge wealth of knowledge collated by the CSO. More than two million homes and communal establishments, such as hotels and hospitals, were visited between March and April to deliver the census forms before they were filled out on census night. The Irish Census was trending on social media

that night, and characters in National soap operas were also filling in their forms!

survey in 2018, to ensure they would deliver the equality information required.

The organisation of this operation is enormous and includes one of the largest recruitments for a single project and the largest statistical operation in the State. The Central Statistics Office conducts extensive research and consultation with various stakeholders to decide on the questions to include in the questionnaire. As Ireland and the world evolves, so do the questions put to the people in the Census, and the new questions applied in 2022 were on renewable energy sources, internet access and devices, smoke alarms, smoking, working from home, volunteering, childcare and travelling home from work, school or college. These topics were selected after a public consultation and the deliberations of a Census Advisory Group. This consultation also influences how the questions are worded, with many questions being changed in varying degrees to improve the relevance of the Census. They were then thoroughly tested in a pilot

The people of Ireland are at the heart of the Census, and the CSO’s multi-media publicity campaign kept them informed and included every step of the way. The success of the Census could not have been achieved without the overwhelmingly positive response from the public and the CSO would like to thank everyone who completed their census form. They would also like to thank the 6,000 plus, people who worked on the Census, as without their dedication, the Census would not be possible. Public sector organisations also assisted the Central Statistics Office, ensuring that as many people as possible filled out the census form when it was due, sending out staff emails and reminders through their departments and sharing updates publicly when needed. This level of close cooperation is indicative of the connection between the CSO and the public sector, with

all agencies working together with a singular objective in mind to encourage, facilitate and enable every citizen to participate in this huge event. Keeping a statistic gathering exercise interesting and new is no mean feat, but the CSO introduced an innovative feature in the most recent Census, a voluntary space called the ‘Time Capsule’. This area on the form provided an opportunity to write a message to the future that will be kept confidential for 100 years, and only available to the world in 2122. We know what some people included here, only because they chose to share it on social media. People decided to commemorate friends, family and pets, spoke about their hopes and wishes, drew pictures, wrote a piece of music and guessed what they thought the future would look like in 2122 This pioneering idea is a world first and has led to the CSO being nominated for innovation awards while inspiring other countries to look at adding a similar area to their census forms. For many people, handing over their census form to the local enumerator is the final act in the process, but for the CSO, it is the beginning of a long journey towards gaining insightful information from a huge amount of data. Even the process of cutting, scanning and checking the forms takes nine months from start to finish, to analyse the responses from almost two million forms. The CSO values and protects the confidentiality and security of the information collected. This is guaranteed by law.

A Treasure Trove of Data The first results from the 2022 census were published on the CSO website on May 30th, and received widespread media coverage. This summary is the tip of the iceberg in a treasure trove of data, an overview with generalised notes for everyone, before detailed thematic reports are released. These reports will be released periodically between June and December 2023. The Census 2022 publication schedule is available on the CSO website, www.cso.ie. The summary results show that the population of Ireland was 5,149,139 (an increase of 8% since 2016) on 3 April 2022. Every county had population growth, with the east of the country showing larger increases. The population is ageing, as the average age has gone from 37.4 to 38.8 years in the six years between 2016 and 2022 and there was a 26% increase in the number of people aged 70 and over.. Non-Irish citizens comprised 12% of the population, and there was a 63% increase in dual Irish citizenship to over 170,000 people since 2016. The number of Roman Catholics fell by 10%. Data from some of the new census questions such as volunteering, working from home, childcare and renewable energy sources showed that over 700,000 people volunteered their unpaid time to help others, with sport being the largest category followed by community help. Nearly 750,000 people worked from home at least one day a week with the highest in sectors like business, media and public service. One in three children under the age of 15 were in childcare in the state. Solar panels have been installed in 6% of

homes as of April 2022. This is just a flavour of the varied and fascinating information included in this first report of Census 2022, the Summary Results. From late 2023, CSO staff will be available to interested groups and organisations to present the Census results virtually or in person. These events are known as the Census Roadshow and are immensely useful in helping people who want to use the census data to understand what data is available and how to access it. CSO staff also explain how to navigate the website, and presentations can be tailored to individual areas of interest. For the public sector, this can be an invaluable help in using the Census to understand their local and national stakeholders and adjust policies and funding to better suit the people in their area. If you wish to register your organisations interest, please email censuspublicity@cso.ie. The work that the CSO does for the Census is immense, and the organisation is an incredibly important institution in Ireland, responsible for producing accurate and reliable statistical information. The Census is a national asset, as it enables the distribution of scarce resources to be placed where they are most needed. The census data is essential for effective decision-making and planning at all levels of society, including schools, hospitals, roads and transport, and by keeping the people in our society involved in all of the steps, the CSO creates a relationship that benefits us all.

L-R; Brendan Murphy, Kathleen Hanney, Tracy Clegg, Sheelagh Bonham, Eileen Murphy, Kathleen Goulding & Paul Alexander

SHORT COURSE STAMINA HUMAN FACTORS TRAINING

CPD IN SUSTAINABLE GREEN ORGANISATIONS

An industry leader in addressing safety, quality, reliability and improvement in organisations. We deliver Human Factors training to aviation, pharmaceutical and other safety critical organisations (e.g. healthcare, emergency services, process industries). Our philosophy is based on a dedication to developing human factors competence that extends beyond compliance with industry regulations. Email us at cihs@tcd.ie to register your interest for next course.

This course introduces participants to a sociotechnical systems model of sustainable organisations, contextualising the organisation’s role between individual decision-making and the services, infrastructure, technology and policies in society. Participants will gain in-demand sustainability leadership skills and strategies for managing risk, facilitating ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) integration, and creating long-term value for shareholders and society.

SHORT COURSE HUMAN FACTORS MASTERCLASSES IN HEALTHCARE SERIES The core learning from our STAMINA Human Factors training has been adapted and tailored to meet the needs of the healthcare industry. The masterclasses are delivered through a series of live interactive lectures and workshops along with extensive study materials such as case studies, discussion forums and video recordings which participants can access in their own time. This series of masterclass can also be customised to meet the needs of your company. Email us at cihs@tcd.ie to discuss working together or to register your interest for next course. SHORT COURSES CPD Our online CPD courses are delivered through live interactive lectures and workshops providing access to lifelong learning opportunities globally. The courses have been developed as part of the Higher Education Authorities Human Capital Initiative (HCI) which is focussing on delivering an increased capacity in higher education in skills-focused programmes designed to meet priority skills needs. For further information on our CPD courses visit our website www. tcd.ie/cihs/cpd-courses or contact us at email cihs@tcd.ie SYSTEMIC RISK MANAGEMENT This fully online six week course will give you an overview of how to develop Systemic Risk Management in organisations such as healthcare, transport, aviation, finance, pharmaceutical, defence forces, emergency services and more. It will use real business examples to demonstrate practical methods to analyse and manage sources of risk, enabling a proactive, effective, and strategic capability.

WORKPLACE WELLBEING Wellbeing is a core value of most societies, albeit conceptualised, defined, and promoted in diverse ways. Deriving primarily from a psychological perspective, this course introduces participants to a sociotechnical systems model of workplace wellbeing, contextualising the organisation’s role between individual’s own wellbeing management, the services, infrastructure and policies in society and the physical infrastructure and technological environment. ONLINE POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE, DIPLOMA & M.SC. IN MANAGING RISK AND SYSTEM CHANGE Our fully online Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma & M.Sc. in Managing Risk and Systems Change attracts students from a wide range of industries, including Finance, Emergency Services, Health, Aviation, Casino and Gambling, Law Enforcement and Process and Software Development. It brings next generation of safety, risk and change management that is embedded in everyday operational practice with a systemic proactive and performance focus. This course is relevant to safety critical industries across the globe and focuses on people already in work, who have responsibility for managing: risk; change; safety; quality; planning; system design. For further details please visit: https:// www.tcd.ie/cihs/postgraduate/ or contact us at email managingrisk@tcd.ie All short courses can be run as tailored versions for companies with face-toface and blended learning options. In addition, the CIHS work with industries to tailor specific training needs for their organisation. Learn from leading academics and practitioner experts in the following areas: Managing & Sustaining Change, Proactive Risk Management, Human Factors and Leadership. For more information and to discuss your bespoke training needs contact us at email cihs@tcd.ie or visit our website www.tcd.ie/cihs

Excellence in Public Sector Research Education & Consultancy Innovative Human Systems

The Centre for Innovative Human Systems (CIHS) is a multidisciplinary centre, based in the School of Psychology at Trinity College Dublin (TCD), but incorporating expertise from engineering, computer science, healthcare, business studies and other fields. In its 25 years, the Centre has had the privilege of working with many partners across both industry and academia. The CIHS provides a variety of offerings in Research, Education/Training and Consultancy.

CIHS A team of highly experienced and dedicated researchers use their skills and experience to address the real challenges faced by diverse sectors to produce solutions that put people front and centre. The team also delivers training and consultancy in areas such as Risk Management, Leadership, Socio-Technical System Design, Change Management, Just Culture, and Statistics and Action Research Methods. Students of both educational and training services become part of a global community of practice, a community of professional learners across a range of safety-critical sectors where they benefit from the academic and industrial experts delivering the course and the extended network of cross industries. Since its inception, the CIHS has successfully managed and delivered a portfolio of research projects with a value of over €10m. The matured tools and methodologies are now embedded in education offerings from postgraduate qualifications in Managing Risk and System Change and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses in Sustainable Organisations, Workplace Wellness and Risk Governance. It also offers bespoke training to industry. In terms of challenges, CIHS has overcome every obstacle, building credibility with a

difference. Human factors and systems thinking have yet to be widely known or understood beyond aviation and a few other sectors. It takes time for industry and other academics to understand and appreciate a multi-disciplinary field that focuses on the human role in their systems. In addition, the Centre keeps up to date with developments in the different sectors in which it operates, including new technology, regulatory changes, and any new risks they face. The CIHS has built its reputation with 25 years of cutting-edge research. Over this period, it has developed and continually refined tools and methodologies embedded in real life scenarios. It works closely with industry customers to deliver real change within their business that improves processes and reduces risk, listening to the customers to provide a customised approach to delivering improved business results. In addition, there are a multitude of possibilities available to industry to engage with CIHS on mutually beneficial projects. These include:

• Collaborations can also lead to international consortia, with the possibility to bid for multi-million-euro European funding opportunities and to access a range of new partners across the continent and beyond. CIHS benefits from experienced researchers with a diverse range of expertise and new early-stage researchers who are at the start of their careers. In addition, its educational programmes engage the services of a team of industry experts to ensure it bridges the gap between academic delivery and real time industry needs and developments. Going forward, CIHS will continue to work on a range of research topics such as Sustainable Behaviour, Traffic Psychology, Risk, Healthcare Human Factors and Workplace Well-being. It will also continue to engage directly with industry sectors that can benefit from the work the team of researchers undertakes to make real world changes.

• Working together to develop new and improved products or services • Placements for researchers within organisations • Joint training of doctoral researchers • Long-term high-level partnerships between your organisation and Trinity researchers

Stenography & Transcription Services

• Remote Hearings and Hybrid Conferences • Real-Time Transcript Streaming • Digital Audio Transcription • Disciplinary Hearings • AGM & Board Meetings • Public Inquiries & Confidential Meetings • Tribunals • Video Conferencing Facilities • Same Day, Door-To-Door Transcript Delivery

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AFTER HOURS:

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EMAIL: GMALONE@GMSS.IE WWW.GMSS.IE

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Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award Stenography & Transcription Services

Gwen Malone Stenography Services is Ireland’s largest, specialist stenography and digital transcription company, operating for over 30 years in the courts, commissions, and tribunals.

GWEN MALONE STENOGRAPHY SERVICES Gwen Malone Stenography Services (GMSS)’s business is built on the delivery of quality, confidential, verbatim transcripts. Accuracy and timeliness are essential to the proceedings, interviews and hearings in which GMSS is engaged. GMSS has the largest pool of experienced stenographers, transcriptionists and editors, providing services across the island of Ireland. Many of GMSS’s clients require access to experienced resources outside standard 9am to 5pm office hours. GMSS provides stenography services to all clients on a 24/7/365 basis. Robust quality assurance procedures and the measurement and monitoring of quality are fundamental to GMSS retaining its standards of excellence in the delivery of its services. Only via stringent and proven quality assurance procedures, with quality checks and audits, can GMSS ensure its service quality continues to be ‘best-in-class’.

GMSS employs the highest levels of data security and confidentiality in the provision of its services, especially when gathering, transmitting and storing client data. GMSS has an established Information Security Management System in place, including a comprehensive suite of security measures to safeguard client’s data at all times. Managing Director, Gwen Malone has a reputation as a leader in the stenography profession and for innovation both in Ireland and globally. GMSS prides itself on its service delivery model. “Quality of service is at the heart of what we do,” Gwen explains. “Our client service guarantee means that clients know they can trust GMSS to deliver a quality, confidential and timely service built on over 30 years of experience while leveraging the best available technology.”

According to Gwen, GMSS’s commitment to its clients is the guarantee that they will always receive services of the highest standard and that these will be delivered with certification, security and punctuality. “GMSS stands for building lasting client relationships founded on loyalty, mutual understanding, and discretion. The firm is proud of its reputation as the country’s most trusted stenography and transcription services company,” she adds. From the guaranteed level of accuracy to the clarity of the format, GMSS’s work represents best practices for the stenography and transcription industry and sets new standards for quality. The firm continually strives to maintain the highest possible merit in all its services.

Excellence in Heritage and Education Services Award

Dublin Cemeteries Trust, formerly known as Glasnevin Trust, is a charitable organisation established by Daniel O’Connell in 1828 and is Ireland’s leading and most experienced group of cemeteries and crematoria. The Trust oversees almost 100 staff across five locations in delivering two core services, funeral services, and heritage and education services.

DUBLIN CEMETERIES TRUST Dublin Cemeteries Trust is the largest provider of burial and cremation services in Ireland, overseeing thousands of services and ceremonies annually across its five cemeteries and three crematoria, in Glasnevin, Newlands Cross, Dardistown, Goldenbridge and Palmerstown. The organisation also provides an integrated headstones and memorials service to the bereaved. The exceptional team guides families through their personal experiences of death and bereavement and supports them in the final journey of their loved ones. Dublin Cemeteries Trust has always been ahead of its time: “We were the first organisation in the Republic of Ireland to provide the option of cremation, with the opening of our facility in Glasnevin Cemetery over forty years ago”, explains Chief Executive Aoife Watters. “As more and more people choose this option, the Trust has been at the forefront of all advances and innovations in the area of cremation since the 1980s, with state-of-the-art crematoria now in place in Newlands Cross and Dardistown, as well as Glasnevin.” The more traditional option of burial is still the preference of many people, and the Trust has a wide selection of plots available in Glasnevin, Newlands Cross, Dardistown and Goldenbridge.

At Experience Glasnevin - Ireland’s National Cemetery, the Trust welcomes visitors from all of Ireland and worldwide to hear the stories of over 1.5 million people who have their final resting place there. Numerous iconic figures from Ireland’s history are buried in Glasnevin – including Daniel O’Connell, Michael Collins, Countess Markiewicz, Eamon de Valera and many more. It is the country’s largest burial place, a beautifully restored Victorian garden cemetery featuring innumerable epic monuments to Ireland’s past. Dublin Cemeteries Trust’s ever-popular guided tours and indoor Extraordinary Lives Exhibition, recently awarded TripAdvisor’s much sought-after Best of the Best status, offer a unique insight into the events that created the Ireland we live in today. These same insights - which detail the lives of both the famous names and the less well-known - are also shared with thousands of schoolchildren every year who visit Glasnevin to partake in the education programme.

spaces with dignity and respect for those of all religions and none’. This diverse and inclusive philosophy was typical of Daniel O’Connell and way ahead of its time. That same philosophy has evolved over the Trust’s near-200-year history. It continues to lie at the heart of everything it does, be it with burials or cremations, funeral services or genealogy, or in its heritage and education work in Experience Glasnevin – Ireland’s National Cemetery, Dublin Cemeteries Trust strives to respect and prioritise the needs and sensitivities of its customers at all times. Dublin Cemeteries Trust’s vision is clear. “Through our burial and cremation activities and the provision of historical, educational and visitor programmes at Glasnevin, Ireland’s National Cemetery, we work to preserve the heritage of past generations, serve the needs of the present generation, and provide a legacy for future generations.”

From poets to presidents, singers to suffragettes, the ordinary and the extraordinary - the stories of those who shaped our nation’s history are brought to life. The founding principle of Dublin Cemeteries Trust back in 1828, was ‘to provide burial

Situated in the heart of Coolock, Northside Shopping Centre has stood in all its glory for more than 50 years. The wide brand diversity provides an extensive range of choices to its customers.

Northside Shopping Centre Excellence in Customer Services & Community Support

NORTHSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE Built on the fresh soil of Coolock in 1970, Northside Shopping Centre has gone through some dramatic changes over the years. However, one thing which remains unchanged is its exceptional customer service, with the team dedicated to ensuring every Northside customer is a happy one.

The centre has everything from high street fashion to the best local deals from the butchers. Whether you’re doing your weekly shop, treating yourself to a new outfit, or you want to have a coffee with someone special, Northside Shopping Centre is the place to do it.

The centre’s proximity to all major roads on the northside of Dublin makes it easily accessible by public and private transport, and ample parking for some 510 cars adds to its convenience.

The new addition to the Northside interior is the notice board where small businesses and event promoters can display their posters and leaflets. This has been popular and very beneficial for both the centre and local business owners. Brand new businesses have also opened their doors in the centre including, Funtech - every technology lover’s dream store, E-Cig – where you can pick up the latest vaping kit, Dazzle - your one-stop shop for any occasion and the newest store, Tuthills Newsagents - selling everything you could possibly imagine!

The centre was extensively refurbished in 2016. The external appearance was modernised to include new mall entrances and the interior was transformed to provide bright, spacious, and easily accessible malls. Word of the centre’s popularity has spread far and wide, thousands of fresh faces walk through the centre’s doors every day, and customers leave loaded up with bags.

All the new outlets combined with high street names such as Dunnes Stores, SuperValu,

JD Sports, Iceland etc, all combine to form a diverse shopping district to meet the needs of every customer. Northside Shopping Centre is also a big part of the Northside Community, supporting the town through donations or pop-up stands inside the centre. Centre Manager Alan McCabe strives for customer satisfaction, and you are often likely to see him on the shop floor chatting to one of the regular customers. He comments, “We would like to give recognition to members of our community as none of this would have been possible without them helping us keep our doors open for over 50 years. My team and I are truly thankful for the honour of Best Place to Shop on Dublin’s Northside and the recognition of our excellence in customer service. We are not just a shopping centre; we are a community centre. We hope to continue to support the local community as much as it supports us.”

PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE COURIER SERVICE

“Whatever its size or content, when you send your package through Vanspeed, you can be sure that it is in safe hands”.

Servicing such diverse sectors as banking and finance, advertising and marketing consultants, computer and manufacturing firms, Vanspeed Couriers are one of the market leaders and innovators in the Dublin courier industry.

Leading Innovation in the Courier Industry Courier Solution Provider Of the Year

VANSPEED COURIERS Since the company was formed in 1986, Vanspeed Couriers has become one of the most successful courier companies within the Dublin region. From its base in Knockmitten Business Park, Dublin, Vanspeed’s highly trained staff provide an end-to-end solution for clients’ transportation challenges.

company’s adaptability to their service requirements and personalised service, from both office staff and drivers alike.

Over the years, the company has developed strong expertise in specialised delivery services, including legal, art, medical, pharmaceutical, retail, same-day and more. The company keeps abreast of evolving technologies in the sector with the ability to offer its clients services such as state-ofthe-art booking systems and parcel-tracking technology. Whichever of the company’s extensive service offerings a client selects, they have the assurance that every item is covered by full Goods in Transit Insurance.

The company’s nationwide delivery service boasts a full 32-county distribution of envelopes, boxes, pallets and personal effects door-to-door with online trackand-trace and guaranteed delivery times, whilst their international delivery covers all countries and continents. Clients can enjoy Dublin to Tokyo, door-to-door, with next-day delivery or delivery by 8am or 12-noon, with full import services available.

Vanspeed Couriers is now one of the market leaders and innovators in the Dublin courier industry. This is due, in no small part, to the many returning clients who value the

CEO, Ken Gill, says, “We take pride in the professional, reliable service we provide to every one of our customers.”

Vanspeed Couriers’ van and truck service includes countrywide same-day despatch, branded vehicles, pallet-friendly facilities and 24/7 out-of-hours service.

The company instils great confidence in its clients with its professionalism, employing driver identification for its uniformed, security-cleared staff who, in the case of Vanspeed’s legal delivery service, are also familiar with the layout of the legal courts and delivery areas. Legal courier delivery is one of Vanspeed’s specialised services that requires great expertise. Time is critical, and confidentiality is essential, when trusted with the delivery of legal and court papers and document briefs to barristers, or when collecting Deeds from banks or solicitors’ offices. Ken shares the Vanspeed Courier philosophy: “We believe there are no magic formulas and, when it comes to the courier industry, nothing beats the age-old remedy of listening to what our clients require and acting on those requirements. Whatever its size or content, when you send your package through Vanspeed, you can be sure that it is in safe hands.”

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Excellence in Signage Solutions Commercial, Retail & Industrial Support Services Award

With over 40 years of experience in the industry, MG Signworks Ltd oversees the production and installation of a diverse range of sign and display projects for the commercial, retail and industrial sectors.

MG SIGNWORKS Headed by Managing Director Michael Spooner, the company’s mission is to create and produce the highest quality bespoke signage by fusing the latest technologies with traditional skills to ensure strong customer satisfaction. Michael explains: “We know what it takes to oversee the production and installation of all kinds of jobs, from a nameplate on a door to the big corporate clients. We use only the highest quality materials and suppliers to tailor-make a signage package that is unique to our clients.” One of the more eye-catching services offered by MG Signworks is the pylon or monolith sign. These signs are highly visible, freestanding light boxes that act as a beacon for prospective customers, guiding them to the doors of the business. Pole signs are similar in that they are raised and often illuminated. These signs are made to be visible from a distance and can be easily seen by passing motorists, taking brand awareness of the business to new heights. MG Signworks believe the design of shop front signage can say a lot about the business inside - 3D lettering can project a creative

and edgy vibe that’s perfect for the creative industry, whilst illuminated fascia boxes draw the attention of passers-by. Michael says: “My team have also revolutionised the traditional flat panel sign so that it’s now seen as so much more than an effective, affordable shopfront solution.” The company also offers signage services to transform clients’ cars, vans, trucks or entire fleets into rolling billboards, promoting their business around Ireland and beyond. “We offer three types of vehicle signage - digitally printed adhesive vinyl wraps, adhesive vinyl lettering and vehicle magnets,” explains Michael. “Our durable car and van wraps are specially formulated to conform to a client’s vehicle and are finished using UV clear laminate to protect from any type of punishment,” he adds. Clever one-way vision vinyl allows rear windows to bear a design that doesn’t interfere with driver vision and safety.

or, the new retail, commercial or residential development to come. This type of printing can be used to cover entire office walls. In a video conference world, a branded meeting room backdrop helps businesses project a professional image and promote their brand more effectively. Michael points out that large-format printing can be used to promote employee well-being with the creation of mural walls or interesting graphics that add a designer touch and make the office environment more attractive. MG Signworks understands how signage conveys the value and importance of a brand to customers. “Every sign we manufacture is built to be creative, eye-catching, meaningful and an accurate representation of our client’s brand,” says Michael.

Large-format printing is a highly popular choice for MG Signworks’ clients and has multiple applications. Construction firms can completely cover building site hoardings with designs that promote their business,

Healthy IRELAND Budget 2024 will provide €500 million to tackle waiting lists, including opening and staffing six new surgical hubs, expansion of the free contraception scheme to include women aged 17 – 31 and increased funding for mental health, including additional staff for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) teams. The Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Hildegarde Naughton, and Minister for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler announced a €22.5 billion health budget that will facilitate the continued delivery and expansion of quality, affordable healthcare services in Ireland. The significant allocation includes a Health Resilience Fund to support service delivery in response to high inflation and increased patient demand among an expanding and ageing population.

We've implemented several initiatives that remove cost as a barrier to healthcare, including the abolition of all public hospital in-patient charges, the expansion of eligibility for GP visit cards, the reduction of the monthly Drug Payment Scheme threshold and the introduction of the free contraception scheme,” Minister Donnelly explains. The 2024 budget reflects Ireland’s expanding and ageing population and the increased impact this has on healthcare resources. It provides for further expansion of capacity, including opening and staffing six new surgical hubs, as part of a generous package to tackle waiting lists, with €36.3 million allocated to a package of surge measures to ensure health service can respond to times of increased demand for urgent and emergency care.

Budget 2024 also contains several health promotion and prevention measures through Healthy Ireland as well as funding for the continued implementation of the National Drugs Strategy. Healthy Lifestyle Minister Naughton stressed that the population's health depends not just on delivering quality healthcare but also on promoting healthy lifestyles to maximise our wellbeing. A key vehicle for achieving this is the Healthy Ireland Programme, which in 2023 had a budget of €14 million. For 2024, an additional €2.3 million has been allocated, bringing the total to some €16.5 million. As part of the funding, new walking trails will be developed in communities, building on the success of the GAA Walking Tracks initiative. In addition, some €1 million has been provided to develop facilities to support outdoor swimming.

Minister Naughton is mindful of families affected by drugs or other forms of addiction. To this end, in addition to core funding for the Drug and Alcohol Taskforces and Section 39 organisations a further €1.5 million in funding is allocated for the first time ever towards a drug and alcohol awareness programme. “Preventative education is paramount in our fight against the misuse of drugs in Ireland,” the Minister said. In the last two years alone, funding for Community Drug and Alcohol and Residential Addiction Services has increased by almost €10 million. For 2024, Dual Diagnosis hubs will support the recovery of young people with drug dependency and mental health issues, and there will be dedicated funding for services for people on the road to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction to support their integration into everyday life through housing, employment, education and other supports. In total the State will invest over €145 million on drug and alcohol addiction services. Mental Health The 2024 Health Budget will see spending on Mental Health rise to almost €1.3 billion. This is the fourth consecutive year that an increase has been provided to support mental health services and highlights in real terms the importance the government places on the mental health of those living in Ireland. This significant investment will enable continued policy implementation and service improvement in line with the national mental health policy, Sharing the Vision.

This year's mental health budget is primarily focused on improving supports available to young people, improved access, and reduced waiting lists for services. For the Older Persons 2024 Budget, a total of €2.621 billion has been secured, including increases for nursing homes, Meals on Wheels services, and weekend activity clubs for people with young-onset dementia. Commenting Minister Butler notes: "Budget 2024 is the largest allocation ever for older person services. In 2024 we expect to deliver 22 million hours of home support. This is more than has ever been delivered before." Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform Pascal Donohoe said the overall health budget is a significant investment: "Ireland spends more of its national income on health than most European countries." On a per capita basis, Ireland's expenditure is the 9th highest in the EU, which has been unchanged since 2019, while Germany had the largest per capita spending at €4,110 per capita. In addition, due to investment in technology, Ireland ranks 2nd in the World Index of Healthcare Innovation. Ireland's overall score of 60.04 was only bested by Switzerland.

Budget 2024 will provide: • €500 million to tackle waiting lists, including opening, and staffing six new surgical hubs. • Expansion of the free contraception scheme to include women aged 17 – 31. • Increased funding for mental health, including additional staff for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) teams. • Increased funding for digital health. • The first full-year programme of publicly-funded Assisted Human Reproduction services including in vitro fertilisation (IVF). • €36.3 million package of surge measures to respond to periods of heightened demand across acute and community services. 87

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Excellence in Public Sector Healthcare Services Support Award Best Health Advisory Team

With over 300,000 employees in 700 offices in over 150 countries across the globe, EY is one of the largest professional services firms in the world. EY provides consulting, advisory services, assurance, and tax services to clients. The firm’s purpose is ‘Building a Better Working World,’ helping create long-term value for clients, people, and society.

EY EY continues to grow in Ireland and last November announced an additional 900 new jobs on the island of Ireland. EY works with public and private sector clients to help them overcome obstacles, risks and challenges. These can be either operational or more strategic in nature. The firm aims to work closely with the client to gain an indepth understanding of the nature of the organisation and its needs, identify the issues affecting it, and co-create solutions to those problems. These solutions include major transformation initiatives designed to address rising costs, deliver increased efficiency, productivity, and enhanced customer service, along with more discrete projects to strengthen cybersecurity or automate procurement processes. It is critically important that the solutions delivered to clients are appropriate, not just for the organisation concerned but also for the business and economic environment which continues to evolve. “We are incredibly fortunate at EY Ireland to be able to draw on the expertise of a team of exceptionally highly qualified people,” explains Dr Ronan Glynn, the firm’s Health Sector Lead. “In addition, we can leverage expertise and knowledge from EY teams

across the globe on behalf of our clients. Indeed, our healthcare practice now consists of more than 15,000 people globally, serving over 4,000 different clients.” According to Glynn, these resources proved particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic when organisations of every size and nature faced significant disruption. “By the same token, one of the more notable features of the pandemic was the extraordinary resilience of Irish businesses and public sector organisations in the face of such challenges. “The response of the health service and the people working in it, in particular, was well documented. The rapid rollout of test and trace, and vaccination programmes were just two examples of the achievements of the health service at a time of unprecedented challenge. EY is proud to have played a role in supporting the health service during that time.” EY’s Health Team was involved in the HSE’s Test and Trace response for COVID-19 and in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in Northern Ireland, where the health team provided data analytics support, process optimisation and contact centre support for the programme.

Another programme supported by EY, was the HSE One Government Centre data analytics tool. EY Ireland delivered this new tool, which saw data collected from across Government to advise on strategic decisions regarding the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Mary Coghlan, EY’s Head of Health Data and Analytics, explains: “Working with colleagues across the HSE and public sector, EY created an end-to-end systems infrastructure and data lake which permitted the use of real-time information as a situational management tool. This tool was a critical enabler for some of the most important decisions taken during the pandemic”. As noted by Justine McCarthy, Head of Health Consulting at EY: “We are delighted to receive this Public Sector award for Best Health Advisory Team. Ultimately, our success is our clients’ success. We’re proud of our track record of working with the health service. That history of accomplishment is built on our ability to understand our health clients’ unique needs and challenges and to work with them to design and implement practical solutions which can be delivered successfully in complex environments with multiple stakeholders.”

Excellence in Customer Care Diagnostic & Audiology Services Award

Diagnostic Audiology Services (Ireland) is a limited company, family run and Irish owned, independent hearing clinic, established in 1985 in the Charlemont Clinic.

DIAGNOSTIC AUDIOLOGY SERVICES Diagnostic Audiology Services Director Judith M Nugent, formerly chief audiologist at the Royal Victoria Ear and Eye Hospital, Dublin for 32 years, brings a wealth of knowledge to her business. With a collective 50 years of experience, Judith has always taken great pride in her work, and today she and her team pride themselves in offering professional advice for all patients with hearing loss and delivering the highest standards of clinical care. The team specialises in diagnostic hearing evaluations, state-ofthe-art hearing aid technology and assistive devices for hearing loss.

The company began in the Charlemont Clinic with just one audiologist, Judy Nugent and a receptionist. Today, there is a branch in Maypark Artane and another in The Beacon with a total of nine staff, five of whom are audiologists. The audiology business is not without its challenges as director and Judith’s daughter, Charyl explains: “In this digital era, retail pricing can be driven by competition with differing business models which promote unrealistic price expectations to the patient. The common concern is that the prices published do not provide clarity on the importance of a service that sits behind the costs of the hearing

aid, the most vital component to ensure a successful outcome for the patient.” The philosophy at Diagnostic Audiology Services is to stand out from the competition as outlined by Charyl: “As an independent hearing professional, you control your time and the resources that you dedicate to each patient, to ensure they receive a service that delights and surpasses their expectations. “Our prime concern is the correct diagnosis of the hearing problem by using the latest state-of-the-art equipment provided by Natus. This enables us to give the best personalised rehabilitation program for patients. It also

allows us to conduct all diagnostic and advanced hearing tests and fit patients with the most appropriate hearing aid based on their needs, preferences and lifestyle. Diagnostic Audiology Services is committed to providing patient-focused care for every person, aiming for excellent service and exceptional outcomes. Diagnostic Audiology Services seeks to give the patient information resources to help maximize communication and improve overall quality of life. While the company offers major brands of hearing instruments and rehabilitative technology, its main approach is patient-centered care. The hearing instruments are only one part of the process of restoring communication. Counselling, care and services are probably the most important part of auditory rehabilitation. Charyl attributes her staff and the company founder for its continued success and says: “Our team is very important to us - they are

a brilliant group of people and are key to the customer service experience. I also strongly believe we had the best teacher in audiology in Ireland, my mum Judith M Nugent. Her teachings enable us to run the business as

we do today. Every patient is given the time and focused care that she would want them to have, which in turn gives an excellent outcome for all.”

Diagnostic Audiology provide the patient with information resources to help maximize communication and improve overall quality of life.

Excellence in Healthcare Services Support Award Celebrating 20 Years

Centric Health has a main mission to strive to keep people healthy in their own community through a range of innovative and accessible local healthcare services, putting the patient’s welfare and care at the heart of everything it does.

CENTRIC HEALTH Founded in 2003, it now has over 70 GP practices nationwide, 300+ GP colleagues, 200+ nursing colleagues, and more than 650 support staff. Part of how it creates its ethos is by ensuring that the colleagues working with the organisation are always on a learning journey, adapting the new information obtained in its courses, and using them on the job to better deliver healthcare in the field. This has added to its overall output to see the company celebrating 20 years of healthcare and being recognised by the Excellence In Business awards. The organisation recently held its first graduation ceremony for its colleagues who underwent additional training to improve their knowledge and therefore their delivery of care. The event brought the people of Centric Health back together to celebrate their achievements and reconnect after the Covid-19 pandemic. Ray Power is a practising GP and co-founder of Centric Health and believes the key to its community is a shared passion for healthcare. “Everyone who works with Centric Health, whether clinical or nonclinical, is here because it is their vocation”, Ray explains. “They choose to work here because they genuinely want to make a difference. There’s a camaraderie, and there is collegiality that’s palpable, and that’s really something quite special. We have a shared purpose of improving the healthcare delivery in Ireland,

and in the time we have been around, I have not diluted my conviction a notch about why we are here, what we are doing, and what we want to achieve.” The graduation was a seminal moment for Centric Health, showcasing the commitment of the people involved to be the best they can be while providing for patients. Courses range from the Diploma in Clinical Leadership, Primary Care Assistant Courses, and the Certificate in Leader-ship and Management, amongst others. While it is difficult to push further and take on new challenges in education, the Centric Health team understands that developing the team they belong to leads to more informed, better decisions for the people being cared for. This feeds into the business’s core values, as Ray explained. “We place the patient at the centre of what we do, which is why we are called Centric Health. “Our next two values are the Power Of The Team and Relationships Based On Trust. So in healthcare, it’s all about the chain, and if there’s one weak link in the chain, then the collective fails, so we’re absolutely focused on respecting and uplifting all of our colleagues. We just roll up our sleeves together, and we trust each other. We trust each other’s purpose personally as well as professionally.

“That’s the glue that keeps Centric Health together, that trust, and that forges the relationship that encompasses our fourth value, which is Courage To Fulfil Our Potential. We try to inspire our colleagues to step into a new realm to broaden their horizons. That is why our recent graduation ceremony was so important to showcase this. We are a young organisation that is all about personal and professional growth, that wants to provide an environment to enable that to happen.” Even though Ray and the team are incredibly passionate about the role they play in the Irish healthcare system and how they are creating big change where it is needed most, they all re-main focused on the job at hand. They recognise and understand that no two days are the same in healthcare and that the bedrock of the work that they do still remains the people in their care. “Our final value is Pride In What We Do and Humility In How We Do It. We remain understated, we just try to do the best for our patients, and they may be the ambassadors on our behalf. But we will not blow our own trumpets; it does not fit with the empathy, compassion, and vocation of healthcare that we believe in at Centric Health.”

Excellence in Business Awards 2023

Marson Consulting Engineers Excellence in Engineering Healthcare Award

MARSON Consulting Mechanical & Electrical Engineers, specialising in the design of critical systems and critical spaces for the healthcare, laboratory and cleanroom sectors.

marsoneng.com

MARSON Consulting Engineers is a leading MEP Consulting Engineering Firm designing mechanical and electrical systems for buildings. MARSON works in the healthcare, commercial and cleanroom sectors, with considerable experience in all aspects of healthcare engineering from ward refurbishments, campus master planning, and utility upgrades, to more specialist areas such as operating theatres and isolation facilities.

Excellence in Healthcare Engineering Cleanroom Specialists

MARSON MARSON began trading in June 2019 with two directors, David Martin and Stephen Robinson. Since then, the firm has grown the practice carefully to six people and intends to double the size of the practice over the next two years. Despite the various challenges faced by the firm during the Covid-19 pandemic, it continues to remain profitable with turnover growing steadily year on year. As the company has grown, it has moved to be fully BIM-ready with all its engineering staff designing and modelling through Revit.

and meeting via video conference was a challenging transition from the usual faceto-face encounters. The MARSON team quickly adapted and found the efficiencies to be more suitable to the business.

The uncertainty of the business environment was a big challenge for MARSON during the pandemic. Luckily the firm had a wealth of healthcare engineering experience which was brought to bear on many emergency works projects initially, which kept the business afloat.

MARSON is primarily a healthcare engineering firm: 90% of its work is in the actuate hospital sector. This differentiates the firm from its competitors as the team is fully focused on healthcare projects. The result of this focus is the benefit to its clients, who get the best service and the most up-todate advice on healthcare MEP engineering. The firm places great emphasis on staff recruitment, training and retention. It hires very carefully, with a key requirement for

MARSON had only been trading for eight months when the country locked down. Construction is a people-centric environment

MARSON strives to build its reputation on its successes in challenging projects. Through its healthcare work, there is no shortage of challenges which the team continues to rise to. The practice is now fully BIM-ready and has numerous projects in design and modelling using Revit.

new intakes to have healthcare experience. A variety of interesting work, good remuneration, generous annual leave and good mentoring from the top down helps them greatly in retaining and motivating staff. In consideration of market volatility, MARSON understands its strengths and the benefits it offers its clients. The management team has a clear vision of how they would like to see the business develop to its next logical stage with plans to double the firm’s size over the next two to three years and extend its offering. Healthcare Engineering is a core element of MARSON’s business. The firm plans to continue to grow its share of the healthcare market. It also plans to develop its sustainability offering further, as the decarbonisation of large facilities comes into focus for clients and government alike.

COVID-1 RAPID TES 9 TS No

Private Blood Testing Service and Covid-19 Centre

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Your Health is in our DNA Our Services BLOOD COLLECTING SERVICES Do you need a blood sample taken? Tired of queueing in outpatient departments or GP Clinics? We have you covered and can even help with a blood draw from other blood testing companies abroad. Consultant requests are also accepted. BLOOD TESTING Blood testing available for both adults and children 2-years and over in our private laboratory, with fast results delivered via email. No unnecessary queuing or waiting for results. Fast professional services in our own private lab. ALL THINGS PREGNANCY We can help if you are planning to become pregnant. With our many tests available, we will put your mind at ease and give you the best possible opportunity. HEALTHY AGEING As you get older, Bloodworks can assist on finding answers to age related issues and help restore your optimal health and wellness. We also provide allergy, intolerance and haemachromatosis testing. #knowyournumbers WELL WOMAN Here at Bloodworks we provide a blood screen to suit your individual needs, from a basic health check to intensive profiles, covering up to 40 biomarkers. Testing options include: Menopausal check, full thyroid screen, cancer marker CA125, prolactin and cortisol, HE4 Roma Testing and an Oesteoperhrosis check up.

WELL MAN Bloodworks can provide you with basic to intensive checks with over 40 different tests available; including testosterone and male hormones to prostate levels. We aim to provide you with the tests you need. From basic cholesterol to intensive cardiac profile including Homosystiene and Lipoprotein A; we have you covered! 48 HOURS SERVICE Need results in a hurry? Don’t worry, we operate a 48-hour turnaround on our testing, with easy to read results emailed directly to your inbox as a PDF for PHLEBOTOMY TRAINING Are you a Nurse, Medical Doctor, Medical Student or Paramedic? Are you looking for excellent Phlebotomy training to enhance your resume or help you find part-time session work? If so, we have the solution! PLATELET-RICH PLASMA INJECTIONS (PRP) Used to treat torn tendons, tendinitis, muscle injuries, arthritis-related pain, and joint injuries. We also provide Collagen Replacement for hair restoration and facials. COVID-19 Bloodworks offers a range of COVID-19 testing services including Rapid Antigen tests and various Antibody tests including quantitative and semi-quantitative.

For more information or to schedule an appointment www.bloodworks.ie

Bloodworks is a private blood testing service offering end-to-end service for the general public and private patients in Ireland and overseas.

Excellence in Public Sector Health Services Support Award

BLOODWORKS Established in 2014, Bloodworks provides high-quality/low-cost phlebotomy services throughout Ireland. Its mission is to provide a confidential and professional phlebotomy service without waiting times in GP surgeries or outpatients departments. CEO Linda O’Connor set up Bloodworks after years of rigorous medical and blood research. Having worked as a phlebotomist since 1992, Linda had extensive experience in all aspects of phlebotomy, including teaching and training. Bloodworks is the first company in Ireland to provide private blood testing. It offers a comprehensive private and confidential service with fast turnaround times, with results sent directly to your email. The firm can also provide onsite corporate testing. The company has over 3,000 tests, from basic health screening to cancer marker checks, with no consultant request required. Bloodworks also provides a range of services to nutritionists, functional medicine practitioners, homeopathy, acupuncturists,

holistic practitioners, dentists and consultants worldwide. The firm currently provides services for nationwide research for University College Dublin.

For example, the firm’s hormonal packages help track several parameters linked to menopause, and they test tumour markers for prostate and ovarian cancer.

For business owners, reliance on third parties can be stressful. That is why Bloodworks has teamed up with Randox as its chosen laboratory partner. Randox not only brings its innovation and diagnostic experience, going back over 40 years, but also empowers Bloodworks’ growth.

Randox’s sports performance panel analyses nutrition, stress levels and more to optimise performance and training. These parameters are only a snapshot of Randox’s offering but form part of a comprehensive test menu to facilitate effective disease management, screening and treatment.

“Randox understands there is a patient at the end of a result”, explains Linda, “they respect a sample’s journey and importance, which bolsters my reputation and instils confidence to expand the business knowing the capacity will be met. Working alongside healthcare providers like this is refreshing and it makes health testing more accessible, so my business can operate smoothly and grow.”

With so much to enjoy in life, protecting your future health is crucial. But keeping track of your health isn’t always easy — even at the best times. With time pressures across our work and social lives, letting our health slide can happen all too easily. Bloodworks and Randox have found the solution, making the complications around blood testing a problem of the past.

Randox places much emphasis on its test menu with detailed and targeted panels aimed at a whole range of body systems.

AFFORDABLE HAIR LOSS SOLUTIONS

Excellence in Business Awards 2023, 2020, 2018 & 2017

MHR Clinic Ireland Best Hair Restoration Clinic in Ireland

FUE HAIR TRANSPLANTATION

FUE Hair Transplant Results

PLATELET RICH PLASMA THERAPY LASER HAIR GROWTH REGENERATION SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION HAIR CARE PRODUCTS

32 Dawson Street, Dublin 2, D02 X009

mhrclinicireland.com

+(353) 014410860 +(353) 0834521555

AWARD WINNING HAIR RESTORATION CLINIC

MHR Clinic Ireland is an award-winning clinic based in the heart of Dublin. It is a world leader in hair transplantation offering non-invasive procedures, supplementary therapies and medical treatments to achieve natural-looking results for both men and women experiencing hair loss.

Excellence in Hair Restoration Hair Transplant & Regrowth Therapies Award

MHR MHR Clinic restores hair with procedures such as the FUE Hair Transplants and treatments including Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy, Scalp Micropigmentation and Laser Hair Growth Regeneration. The clinic also offers natural hair care products for men and women suffering from hair loss. The clinic offers treatments at competitive prices combined with outstanding aftercare for clients. A range of alternative therapies is also available enabling them to cater to a wide range of clients suffering from hair loss. MHR prices its treatments and procedures at an affordable price, meaning that hair loss treatment is available to people from all walks of life, making it possible for anyone to regain their hair and confidence. MHR Clinic prides itself in taking the time to understand what the client is looking for and explaining the treatment and procedure in basic terms so that they understand what the procedure entails. Clients are not compelled

to make an immediate decision, and the friendly, professional team is there to help them answer any questions or concerns they may have. MHR Clinic invites all clients for an initial consultation during which their situation is evaluated and a bespoke treatment package is recommended. MHR professionals will answer any questions that clients may have during or after the consultation and book them in for a second visit for further evaluation to check on the treatment progress on the individual client.

MHR Clinic has recently moved to bigger premises in Dawson Street with two larger treatment rooms. They have also recruited sales personnel and technicians to keep up with the demand for bookings. Begin your hair restoration journey with a noobligation, free consultation at MHR Clinic where the cause and extent of your hair loss will be assessed and a bespoke hair loss treatment package created.

The team at the MHR Clinic works tirelessly in taking care of clients. They have a passion for what they do, and clients benefit from this dedication from the day they book a consultation to the day of the treatment. The MHR staff have been in the hair restoration industry for many years, making them experts in this field, which is evident in the results enjoyed by their clients.

Our family looking after your family

Our 7 Principles of Care Supporting, listening & learning Empathy Respecting your rights Vibrant community Investing in our People Care of Residents living with dementia Enhancing living experiences

Discover Brookhaven Healthcare’s purpose built homes.

Droimnín Nursing Home - Stradbally, County Laois

Brookhaven Nursing Home - Ballyragget, County Kilkenny

An Teaghlach Uilinn Nursing Home - Moycullen, County Galway Talbot Lodge Nursing Home - Malahide, County Dublin

AbbeyBreaffy Nursing Home - Castlebar, County Mayo

www.brookhaven.ie

Brookhaven Healthcare provides 24-hour care for residents needing support with their normal day to day activities. Brookhaven has Nursing Homes in Dublin (Talbot Lodge, Malahide), Laois (Droimnin Nursing Home, Stradbally), Kilkenny (Brookhaven Nursing Home, Ballyragget), Galway (An Teaghlach Uilinn, Moycullen) and Mayo (Abbeybreaffy Nursing Home, Castlebar).

Excellence in Residential Care Providing Exceptional Care & Enhanced Living Experiences

BROOKHAVEN HEALTHCARE All of the Brookhaven nursing homes across Ireland provide a safe and caring home for residents where each individual’s dignity, independence and physical wellbeing are protected. Whether someone needs shortterm or long-term care, Brookhaven Nursing Home can provide care for people who cannot be cared for sufficiently at home or require additional medical attention and support but do not need to go to hospital.

broader community. Brookhaven empowers and encourages families and residents to engage in any matters of their care. The company values all interactions and utilises them as opportunities to learn and develop, believing that life in a nursing home is just another phase to be lived and enjoyed as much as all others. Brookhaven is committed to making this a reality for everyone in its care.

Within Brookhaven Nursing Homes, the vision has always been to deliver personcentred, professional care in an environment that supports mental, spiritual and emotional enrichment. This is achieved by helping residents stay active and engaged with friends and families and providing recreational activities and links with the

Where possible, residents are actively involved in all decisions regarding their care, with everyone being consulted in relation to their care plan and all care being offered and provided. Residents GPs attend the nursing home as do physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dieticians and any other care provider required. Residents

are encouraged to partake and become involved in the Residents Forum. This meets monthly to discuss any concerns and identify areas and opportunities for improvement. Brookhaven prides itself on its dedicated and committed workforce. The teams’ dedication in all Brookhaven nursing homes was particularly noted and rewarded during Covid-19. The company acknowledges that its employees are pivotal in developing and delivering high-quality care and living environments for all residents. To this end, it supports staff through unique reward structures, investing in continual education and creating career progression opportunities.

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WE KNOW YOU CARE, AND SO DO WE. Home Instead provides personalised home care services so your loved ones can continue living in their home. From personal care to dementia care to transportation, we help older adults live safe and happy lives – at home.

Call 1800 911 855 or visit HomeInstead.ie

Each Home Instead® office is independently operated.

Home Instead is the leading private home care company in Ireland. With a team of 3,600 professional CAREGivers, the firm has been enhancing the lives of ageing adults and their families nationwide in cities, towns and villages for nearly twenty years. In that time, home care services have enabled countless older people to continue to live independently at home.

Excellence in Homecare Public Sector Healthcare Provider of the Year

HOME INSTEAD Home Instead first came to Ireland in June 2005 when the master franchise office was opened in Dublin. While initially operating under a franchise model, the company has been going through a corporatisation process in recent years, which has allowed them to work more efficiently to bring bestin-class home care to older adults in Ireland. Home Instead’s care model is built around relationship-based care, provided through a person-centred approach. Flexible care plans are determined through a close consultation process with family members, with the care itself ranging from one to 24 hours a day and from one to seven days a week, 365 days a year, depending on the needs of the person receiving care. Home Instead CAREGivers are fully trained, Garda-vetted and insured professionals. They are compassionate and caring individuals who provide an exceptional level

of care. New recruits get 20 hours’ free, fully supported training via the Home Instead Home Care Professionals Academy and are issued with Home Instead, HSELand and Tusla certificates on completion. CAREGivers are encouraged to continue this training to achieve a City & Guilds Accredited Certificate in Dementia Care. Anyone who employs a professional home carer can apply for tax relief on the costs of that care, up to 40%. This tax relief scheme can significantly reduce the cost of Home Instead’s Private Home Care services. Shane Jennings, Chief Executive Officer, described the company’s culture and its people as its greatest asset, saying, “Home Instead really focuses on its people, who are at the beating heart of the service we provide. We have invested in people and positional specialists to contribute to the company’s growth while maintaining our

mission and values. Home Instead’s mission is clear, to enhance the lives of ageing adults and their families. “Within the company, the core values are to treat each other with dignity and respect, to encourage growth in ourselves and others, and to build value in our service to others.” Shane explains that CAREGivers and office staff are recognised and rewarded through award programmes, appreciation initiatives and social events. “The retention of CAREGivers and staff is essential to Home Instead’s development. We work hard to maintain and improve our philosophy, which is effective through our high-quality standards, best practice approach and retaining the best possible talent.“ If you are interested in finding out more about Home Instead visit HomeInstead.ie or phone 1800 911 855 for a free, no-obligation care consultation.

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IT AREA

TECHNICAL AREA Vacuum Pumps

FacilityPro®

SCADA Clients FacilityPro SCADA

Vacuum

External Database

Ethernet (PoE) Ethernet LAN Redundant Server

Analog & Digital I/O

IsoAir® Pro E MiniCapt® BioCapt® Airnet® IIs Microbial Aerosol Particle Remote Samplers Particle Counter Sensors Microbial

Env. Sensors

Air Sampler

CRITICAL CLEANROOMS (A/B)

Ethernet LAN

Alarms

HMI Clients

Lasair® Pro Particle Counters

Data Ports

MiniCapt® Microbial Samplers

can be connected as remote sensors

BACKGROUND CLEANROOMS (C/D)

Established in 1988, EMS is a leader in the cleanroom business providing its clients with a complete performance testing service. The firm offers complete cleanroom monitoring solutions ensuring quality by design from inception to implementation.

Excellence in Healthcare Cleanroom Specialists Services Support Award

EMS EMS is the market leader in facility monitoring systems for pharma fill lines, support areas, microelectronic fabs and medical device manufacturers. The company has two sections, cleanroom testing and certification and supply, calibration and support for particle, viable and environmental monitoring systems and portables in aerosol, gas and liquids. Like many companies, EMS faced challenges during the past few years. Due to the movement to BioMedical production, the product’s value increased exponentially. To avoid downtime, EMS introduced a streamlined onsite calibration and support service to meet the industry’s needs while maintaining a high level of quality that meets the stringent regulations. Keen to remain current in an ever-changing industry, EMS continues to innovate. The firm introduced the EMS Trend Tool, a powerful reporting platform to provide the industry with fast data and alarm analysis to support investigations of vast quantities

of data in an easy-to-understand intuitive report. This eliminates days of data mining and highlights the root cause of the issue, and results of corrective actions are available instantly. The EMS Trend tool, along with the longevity and knowledge base of the firm’s highly experienced engineers provide rapid problem-solving support to customers, ensuring the firm stands out from the competition. The EMS team consists of highly experienced, motivated, quality engineers that are constantly learning in an environment that results in low staff turnaround. The Pharma industry has evolved dramatically over the past 20 years, with leading BioPharma companies pushing to integrate EMS’s automated facility monitoring system into the fill line and support areas to ensure traceability throughout the process.

on minimising waste and reducing any environmental uncertainties around each batch by eliminating, in real-time, the product seen to be at risk during production, safeguarding the entire batch. EMS’s realtime monitoring systems meet this goal and are based on a robust automation architecture platform. EMS always ensures its engineering solution is moulded around the needs of the customer and its operators, not the other way around. EMS works with the customer from the start to ensure its solution will meet their needs and explains at an early stage ways it can improve their process. EMS has a clear customer service philosophy to provide high-quality and vastly experienced support in all industries and applications to solve problems quickly.

Because of the commercial value of today’s pharma products, there is a major emphasis

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your support partner

Excellence in Business Awards 2023

Alpha Healthcare Excellence in Public Sector Healthcare Services Support Award

Alpha provides Strategic & Business Consultancy support and Advisory services as well as exceptional Project & Portfolio management (PPM) services to the public sector. Alpha is very proud that it was rated #1 in the country by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) to provide PPM services and #3 to provide Business Strategy & Operations services.

Our key services: Strategic & Business Planning & Advisory services Project & Programme Management & PMO supports GP Practice Management Services Training Courses (CPD Certified)

Delivering Bespoke & Tailored Management Solutions

E: admin@alphaprimarycare.com

Tel: 022 20799 Web: https//alphaprimarycare.com

Excellence in Public Sector Healthcare Services Support Award

Alpha Healthcare provides strategic, business and consultancy services to the public sector in Ireland. The company’s main customers include public sector organisations, the Department of Health, the HSE, regulatory bodies, GP practices and primary care centres, healthcare professionals and healthcare organisations.

ALPHA HEALTHCARE Established in 2003, this proud Irish company provides a range of bespoke services including strategic and business planning; GP practice and nursing home management services; programme and project management services; support in establishing quality management systems and staff training. Alpha’s results focused organization utilises industry best practices such as Total Quality Management and LEAN to deliver solutions for its clients. The company has worked on a diverse range of large and small projects throughout Ireland and the UK. Like most businesses, Alpha faced significant challenges during the last few years. CEO Dr Jack Nagle explains: “The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented challenges on us as a society. It resulted in major impacts on business. However, the Alpha team was able to adapt, through its home office working policy and cloud-based IT system, and we continued to offer our services to clients safely and efficiently. We did this by moving to a 100% virtual platform.” The learning from COVID-19 and the widespread acceptance of using virtual platforms for meeting and engaging,

meant that Alpha continued with minimum business disruption. The company continues to leverage the move to virtual working and has increased its customer base and reach nationwide. Alpha also developed a new website and eCommerce platform to support its business development and growth. Alpha strives to stand out from the competition using numerous initiatives.: “Alpha offers a bespoke business and consultancy service to all our clients. Utilising best practice methodologies and toolkits, we adapt our approach to meet the client’s specific requirements. We are responsive and use an agile approach to meet our clients’ changing and often challenging requirements. The key to success is our ability to engage and communicate with clients. We are particularly skilled at stakeholder engagement and in synthesising feedback concisely and clearly.” Dr Nagle added. According to Dr Nagle: “Alpha Healthcare is passionate about its work and the support and services we provide to our clients. The Alpha team focuses on delivering high-quality service to clients. Whilst we utilise industry standard toolkits and methodologies, we adopt a plain English approach to engaging and communicating with everyone we offer

our services to. Our approach is responsive and agile and we work to the highest standards of quality and confidentiality. We are a trusted and reliable organisation and deliver on our commitments.” Dr Nagle says that having a good team supporting Alpha’s work is essential, and he always seeks to put together a team that complements each others work and delivers for clients: “The Alpha team are all passionate about what they do, which is important for staff involvement and ownership of their work. It also helps create an enjoyable and fulfilling work environment.” In August 2022, Alpha was appointed an approved provider on the OGP PAS122F Multi Supplier Framework Agreement. The company was ranked number one small company supplier for project, programme and portfolio management and number three for business strategy and operations. This was a very significant achievement for the company and demonstrates the standards to which it works and the expertise it has within the organisation. It is a testament to the projects and excellent work the Alpha team has delivered.

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The Green DEAL Ireland's clean, fresh air, lush green landscapes and stunning coastlines are famous worldwide. However, we are now facing a global crisis that threatens our scenic environment and can no longer be taken for granted. Climate change is the greatest challenge of our times and urgent action is required to prevent irreversible damage to the planet that will cause biodiversity loss, coastal flooding, increased threats to health and numerous other consequences. Tackling climate change is one of the European Commission's top priorities and the European Green Deal is its ambitious plan to transform Europe into the first climateneutral continent. The Green Deal plays a major role in leading the EU out of the financial consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic by kick-starting recovery, protecting jobs and creating

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sustainable growth. It is also paving the way toward more affordable, secure and sustainable energy. Russia's military attack on Ukraine caused energy supply problems highlighting Europe's need to transition to clean energy sources rapidly. The European Commission’s REPowerEU plan includes measures to make Europe independent from Russian fossil fuels as quickly as possible. The EU is a global leader in the fight against climate change and has put in place legislation covering all sectors of the economy to cut greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the Paris Agreement. However, many challenges must be overcome if Europe is to achieve its Green Deal goals, and each Member State has a role to play. Take Action Ireland’s Climate Action Plan is integral to the National Development Plan 2021-2030. It shows how Ireland is putting climate

solutions at the very heart of social and economic development. Climate Action Plan 2023 focuses on system change - how we build, work or get around, and shop or produce food. We need industries and key economic sectors to change. Individuals and communities will continue to be critical drivers of the lowcarbon transition, then it will be easier for people to make sustainable choices with real benefits. Climate action is not all about challenges but about realising the opportunities that a clean, sustainable environment and society will offer in a way that is fair for everyone. Every sector, every community, every person has a role to play. Change is never easy, but the benefits are clear. Reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and transitioning to our own

natural resources is good for our collective community wealth. Jim Dollard, Executive Director, Generation Trading ESB, notes that Ireland has transitioned rapidly from being an almost totally fossil fuel-based economy to a point where over 40 per cent of all electricity is provided via renewable energy. Inclement weather means that can be closer to 60 per cent, but, says Dollard, "renewables by their nature are intermittent – it isn't sunny or windy every day". Opportunity Knocks Many exciting opportunities arise from the transition to a carbon-neutral society and economy: new sustainable careers, warmer more energy-efficient homes, better travel options, more sustainable consumer choice, more liveable towns and cities, cleaner air and water and a better environment for future generations. The 2019 and 2021 Climate Action Plans began an overhaul of our energy system, building sector, food production and transport system. For 2023 and beyond, we must ramp up our ambition. Global emissions have continued to increase, as they have in Ireland, so the scale of change needed to reduce them is unprecedented. We must urgently implement the climate action plan to stay ahead of the climate curve. The Climate Act 2021 and the annual Climate Action Plans leave little room for manoeuvre. Ministers, key economic sectors, and industries are responsible for demonstrating

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

that they are on a clear path to halve our emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050. The sectoral emissions ceilings (SECs) agreed in July 2022 put in place targets for each sector to achieve this. This will necessitate a massive up-scaling in our switch to renewables, a dramatic change to transport systems and how we allocate road space, ambitious home and business retrofitting and climate-based construction, and new innovative systems to protect and support family farms to diversify their income streams. In 2021, €169m was made available to ensure a just transition in the Midlands, where counties are most affected by the switch away from peat as an energy source. This year will see the establishment of the Just Transition Commission to ensure that no community, no sector and no person gets left behind. Looking to the future, Ireland is fully committed to the EU Green Deal, the union's ambitious plan to lead the world on climate change, which demands immediate and significant action by member states. The EU has shown it is the global leader in this, and with the Climate Action Plan, Ireland has now put in place the legislation and policies to ensure that these objectives are reached.

“Ireland has significant renewables capacity already, having built a lot of onshore wind farms, but we have one of the biggest and best coastlines and wind resources in Europe on the west coast,” she says. “If we can harness it – and we believe we can – then we can export it just like gas.” 109

Vital High-Impact Sectors of the Plan POWERING RENEWABLES A key element of the plan is accelerating the delivery of onshore wind, offshore wind, and solar. This will coincide with the phasing out of coal and peat use in electricity generation.

GREEN BUSINESS Ireland must significantly grow the circular economy and the bioeconomy. There will be a reduction in fossil fuel use from 64% of final consumption (2021) to 45% by 2025 and further by 2030 and a decrease in carbon will be achieved in construction materials produced and used by at least 30%. There should be an increased total share of heating to carbon neutral to 50-55% by 2025, up to 70-75% by 2030. TRANSPORT

The aim is to dial up to 9 GW onshore wind, 8 GW solar, and at least 7 GW of offshore wind by 2030 (with 2 GW earmarked for green hydrogen production). The government will support at least 500 MW of local communitybased renewable energy projects and increased levels of new micro-generation and small-scale generation. A new, dynamic Green Electricity Tariff will be developed by 2025 to incentivise people to use lower cost renewable electricity at times of high wind and solar generation. BUILD BETTER Retrofitting will be ramped up to 120,000 dwellings to BER B2 by 2025, jumping to 500,000 by 2030. Heat pumps will be installed in 45,000 existing and 170,000 new dwellings by 2025, up to 400,000 existing and 280,000 new dwellings by 2030. Targets are set for the generation of up to 0.8 TWh of district heating by 2025 and up to 2.5 TWh by 2030

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We must change how we use our road space, including reducing the total distance driven across all car journeys by 20%. Nearly one in three private cars will be an Electric Vehicle. This will be achieved with walking and cycling networks to have walking, cycling and public transport account for 50% of our journeys. For rural areas, 70% of people will have buses that provide at least three trips to the nearby town daily by 2030. FORESTS & TREES Increase our annual afforestation rates to 8,000 hectares annually from 2023 onwards and rehabilitate 77,600 hectares of peatlands. We must rethink our forestry programme promoting forest management initiatives in public and private forests to increase carbon sinks and stores. Improve carbon sequestration of 450,000 ha of grasslands on mineral soils and reduce the management intensity of grasslands on 80,000 ha of drained organic soils.

Supporting Ireland’s progress towards a climateneutral future, Bord na Móna is a climate solutions and renewable energy company that has served communities across Ireland for over ninety years.

Excellence in Environmental & Sustainability Outstanding Contribution to Climate Action Targets

BORD NÁ MONA

Established in 1933 as the Turf Development Board and changing its name to Bord na Móna under the Turf Development Act 1946, the company in 2023 is led by Chief Executive Tom Donnellan and a board of eleven who share one vision: to see a climate-neutral Ireland by 2050. To achieve the vision, the company’s Brown to Green transition strategy is pioneering the expansion of its climate solutions and renewable energy offering to safeguard green energy supply for Irish communities in the future and support the achievement of Ireland’s renewable energy requirements by 2030.

Tom Donnellan outlines Bord na Móna’s ambitious plans, “We will build upon existing solutions, including onshore and offshore wind energy, green hydrogen, solar energy, the Bord na Móna Energy Park and rehabilitation of peatlands.” He adds, “Additionally we offer solutions in recycling and waste management solutions, bioenergy, opportunities for recreation, learning and discovery as well as Bord na Móna Accelerate Green, Ireland’s first sustainability accelerator, now on its third intake of candidate companies.” The company is very clear about its greatest challenge: the climate emergency. As a business with its roots in peat harvesting to service the energy needs of Irish communities,

Tom acknowledges that Bord na Móna has undergone a seismic transformation from its traditional peat-based business to a company with a climate solutions strategy entirely focused on renewable energy generation, recycling and responsible waste management, rehabilitating Irish peatlands, and developing additional low-carbon enterprises. “At Bord na Móna, we are working to embrace and implement green energy solutions. The projects we are delivering will ensure Ireland has a secure supply of clean, renewable energy," Tom explains. The scale of the company alone sets it apart from the competition. It manages a land

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holding of over 80,000 hectares and employs 1,400 people. In the past 12 months Bord na Móna has restored 5,500 hectares of natural peatlands. This is part of a broader Peatlands Climate Action Scheme to rehabilitate up to 33,000 hectares of peatland over a 5-year period. This is one of the largest ever peatland rehabilitation programmes in the world. It will secure, reduce and store millions of tonnes of carbon and help sequester millions more. Ireland has pledged to generate 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and Bord na Móna is expanding its renewable energy infrastructure, including wind, solar, biomass and biogas to support this target. “All Bord na Móna’s activities are focused on helping Ireland to achieve its climate goals,” Tom adds. Tom reveals one of the key milestones on the brown-to-green journey the company has met this year, “The closure of the last remaining briquette factory at Derrinlough represents the final stage in our commitment to cease peat harvesting, exhaust existing peat stocks for briquette production and complete our transition to a climate solutions and renewable energy company.”

Additionally, this year, Bord na Móna announced record financial results in our Annual Report, an outcome of a record performance across most areas of the business but driven particularly by our renewable energy portfolio which grew by 35% in FY23 versus the previous year, including Cloncreen Wind Farm and Oweninny Wind Farm, a JV with ESB, (both RESS 1 projects) which collectively delivered an additional 175MW of electricity over the past 12 months. Bord na Móna has accomplished an enormous amount in a short space of time and Tom acknowledges that “None of this could have been accomplished without the skills, agility and resilience of our employees who are committed to making our vision a reality. By creating a resilient strategic business model that is centred on climate solutions, we have successfully crafted a future that is financially robust.” The future for this company committed to green transition is bright. They are currently transforming approximately 3,000 hectares of land in Offaly, Westmeath and Meath counties into the first Bord na Móna Energy Park. “This sustainable development will co-

locate a range of low to zero-carbon energy generation assets with industrial-scale high-demand energy users. The concept is designed to increase Ireland’s energy security and self-sufficiency while meeting the needs of the national and regional economies. The park will comprise of wind energy, solar energy, battery energy storage, hydrogen, flexible technology, data centres & distribution centres. The Energy Park landbank also enjoys access to Ireland’s main motorway and fibre infrastructure networks, ensuring frictionless physical and data connectivity”, Tom adds.

All Bórd na Móna's activities are focused on helping Ireland to achieve its climate goals.

Rethink | Renew | Restore

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Water Framework Directive Office River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) 2018-2021

◆ Improved waste water treatment ◆ Conservation and leakage reduction ◆ Scientific assessments of water bodies ◆ A new collaborative Sustainability and Advisory Support Programme ◆ The development of water and planning guidance for local authorities ◆ Extension of the Domestic Waste Water Treatment Systems grant scheme ◆ A Blue Dot Catchments Programme ◆ A new Community Water Development Fund

If you would like to find out more, contact:

wfd@dublincity.ie Dublin City Council: Civic Offices, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, D08 RF3F, Ireland. Telephone: 01 222 2222 Email: customerservices@dublincity.ie

Excellence in Standards Services To Flood Protection Award

Dublin City Council is the largest local authority in Ireland, representing a population of 555,000 residents (not counting millions of visitors each year) and has a turnover of over €1bn. One of the main responsibilities of Dublin City Council is to minimize flood risk to its citizens as far as is reasonably possible.

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL FLOOD MANAGEMENT Gerard O’Connell is the Senior Engineer with responsibility for flood projects in the city and liaison with other local authorities on a regional basis. His office performs a vital function for Dubliners in the area of flood protection. “My main role is in the area of flood alleviation, flood emergency forecasting, monitoring and planning”, he explains. The highest ever recorded tidal flood event to 1st February 2002 flooded over 1250 buildings, mainly homes in the city area. This highlighted that something urgent had to be done with regard to coastal flooding. This flood caused around €60m in reported damages at the time. Since then, €25m of flood defences have been carried out at Spencer Dock, on the tidal region of the Dodder, on the lower Tolka, South Campshires and elsewhere in the city. An even higher tide occurred on 3rd January 2014, and thanks to the old and new flood defences, only €0.1m of damages were recorded as a result. The new coastal defences have already paid for themselves within a period of only 12 years. In October 2011, a significant rainfall event caused the flooding of over 1200 buildings in the city area. Due to this, further flood alleviation projects are progressing, including

the Dodder River, the Wad River in Clontarf, and local flood storage schemes in Finglas, Cabra, and Ashtown. A cycleway with some coastal protection is completed in Dollymount between the causeway and the wooden bridge.

and flow diversions are typical forms of flood mitigation measures scenarios proposed by these studies,” explains O’Connell. “Likely global warming scenarios issues are also looked at and incorporated into the design if possible.”

A further €5m coastal flood protection scheme will protect areas in Campshires between Butt Bridge and Cardiff Lane to protect over 3,000 buildings between this new wall and the railway line up to the National tidal flood standard of a 200-year tidal.

According to O’Connell, a scheme must be buildable, and it cannot increase the flood risk significantly elsewhere. For a scheme to be economically viable, the cost of the proposed works and associated activities must be substantially less than the estimated cost of flood damages protected by the flood scheme.

Future flood schemes are progressing in other areas, including the Poddle River, the Dodder River upstream of Clonskeagh, the Wad River in Clontarf, and the Liffey Estuary. The Camac River flood defence scheme is also being re-evaluated. Most of the above schemes are being developed through close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW) through its Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Plan (CFRAMP). These studies look at all the major rivers and coastal zones in Ireland which have a flood history or are likely to be at significant flood risk. “Flood awareness and flood warning are non-structural ways of reducing flood risk. Flood walls and embankments, flood storage

The OPW is the competent national authority for implementing the European Union Floods Directive in Ireland. Following the development of a flood alleviation scheme for most major rivers and coastal bodies. They are then progressed by the local authority to the planning stage with the approval of the OPW. Many of the larger schemes require an Environmental Impact Assessment Report and Statement, which goes to An Bord Pleanala for approval. Many of the proposed schemes would not progress without the help of the public and local residents’ associations giving their support, especially if they have been flooded in the past.

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Climate change is one of the most significant and challenging issues facing humanity, resulting in rising sea levels and more frequent and severe rainfall events. Dublin City Council is proactively responding to the shifting tides of climate change providing robust defences to protect its citizens from potential catastrophic events.

Flood awareness and flood warnings are non-structural ways of reducing flood risk. Flood walls and embankments, flood storage and flow diversions are typical flood mitigation scenarios. A scheme must be buildable and cannot increase the flood risk significantly elsewhere. It must also be economically viable – the cost, when added up, must be substantially less than the estimated flood damages protected by the flood scheme. 116

For their continued work protecting Dublin from one of its greatest assets, Dublin City Council Flood Projects Offices are worthy recipients of the Public Sector Magazine Award for Excellence in Flood Protection.

The city council is keenly aware of the potentially catastrophic consequences of a major flood and points to the event of February 2002 when the highest ever recorded tidal flood event flooded over 1250 homes in the city area causing devastating damage. It highlighted that something urgent had to be done. Since then, €30m of flood defences have been carried out at Spencer Dock, on the tidal region of the Dodder, on the lower Tolka and elsewhere in the city.

Born from the need to reduce single use plastics in the medical industry, HaPPE Earth is an innovative start-up specialising in the creation of guilt-free single-use PPE.

Excellence in Public Sector Healthcare Services Support Award Compostable Medical PEE

HaPPE EARTH Dr Mary O’Riordan, a Clinical Advisor with more than 20 years of experience in medicine, specialising in highly infectious, emerging threats preparedness and response, and her cousin Lisa O’Riordan - an entrepreneur with several decades experience in events industry logistics and apparel manufacturing - met for their first catch-up following the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussing the prospects of life returning to normal, Lisa expressed concerns about the environmental consequence of the widespread use of single-use plastics. Dr Mary understood the importance of PPE, but also recognised the challenge of finding a sustainable solution.

From this meeting, the idea of compostable PPE was born and the cousins married Lisa’s entrepreneurial spirit with Mary’s extensive knowledge and understanding of the healthcare system to launch HaPPE Earth. “As entrepreneurs, we are committed to supporting the healthcare community on their journey towards a more sustainable sector and one which ultimately contributes to a healthier planet,” states Lisa, describing the company’s mission. The County Cork based business is rightfully proud of its core product, the HaPPE apron, which is made from HaPPE’s Proprietary Resin which is composed of an innovative family of

compostable bio-plastics that have been developed over the past 25 years. The HaPPE apron matches all the safety parameters of current Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) single use aprons. They are CE approved and Class I and approved by Medical Device Regulation (EU) 2017/745(MDR), but also with optimal composting, the HaPPE apron disappears in approximately eight weeks compared with up to 50 years’ life for LDPE plastic in landfills. Dr Mary explains. “We are absolute advocates of a recycle and reuse ethos in the healthcare setting, but there are certain items in use that at present, simply cannot be reused or

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recycled, for example the single use splash apron.” She continues: “Annually, for singleuse plastic aprons alone, Europe and the US use approximately 8 billion aprons, creating over 80 thousand tons of plastic and over 750 thousand tons of carbon emissions.” Launching the HaPPE apron had its challenges. During customer discovery, it became apparent that there were some practical barriers to sustainable healthcare procurement and, in particular, the ability to say “yes” to sustainable products. David O’Riordan, the third founder in HaPPE Earth, who has an extensive background as an instrument/mechanical engineer, explains: “The problem for senior healthcare clinicians and procurement officers was a lack of data available to the healthcare sector on the impact of the transition from plastic to bio alternative products.”

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HaPPE Earth’s environmental mission afforded it the opportunity to join the Accelerate Green Programme. Lisa remarks on the programme: “Our mentors are skilled at dismantling our ideas and logic and challenging us to investigate each piece and their fresh, experienced perspectives can be daunting, but invaluable at helping HaPPE reach its full potential.” When asked about the biggest lessons learned in business so far, Dr Mary remarks. “We’ve certainly realised that there are numerous areas that require proficiency beyond the core aspects of our business.” She notes: “Understanding the intricacies of the investment process, keeping up with relevant legislation and navigating the complex manufacturing and distribution channels are just a few examples of the additional skills and knowledge required to run a successful enterprise.”

Lisa O’Riordan sums up with wise words stating: “It’s important to remind ourselves to go for it, taking all the advice we receive into consideration, but ultimately trusting our instincts.”

The “green” PPE apron from HaPPE Earth is made from a proprietary resin that is composed of compostable bioplastics. It matches the safety parameters of current, medical Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) single-use aprons, is CE approved and suitable for use in healthcare.

Compostable medical PPE – HaPPE Earth, Healthy Earth.

Our solution provides guilt free PPE that offers protection without harm.

We are HaPPE Earth, helping healthcare providers reduce their massive single use plastic problem and reach their sustainability goals by converting to our award-winning CE approved, compostable, single use apron. Our service helps the healthcare industry: • Make the shift from single use plastic consumables to medically approved compostable alternatives. • Convert healthcare bio-PPE products and hospital food waste into pathogen safe fertiliser - a global ﬁrst. • Measure their progress to reduce single use plastic and food waste for the 2024 Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

Deﬁned by our Ethos & Values First do no harm

Sustainability Targets

Transparency

Education

Huggardsland, Glasheen Road, Cork City, Co. Cork

www.happeearth.ie

TO VIEW A VIDEO OUTLINING OUR FULL SERVICE SCAN HERE

ELIS CARE HOMES A SPECIALISED LAUNDRY DIVISION DECICATED TO THE NEEDS OF IRISH NURSING HOMES Our custom bulit premises is dedicated to the unique needs of Irish nursing homes and care homes. Each resident’s personal items are barcoded so they can be tracked as they are collected, laundered, and returned to each resident - no more lost items. Your staff are supported by our dedicated customer service support team who will train all staff members to ensure there is a full understanding of the systems and procedures.

ASSESSMENT

Our team will assess your unique requirements and train your team on all processes

FULL TRACEABILITY

Residents’ possessions are individually tagged with a unique code so they are tracked through the process

HIGHEST HYGIENE STANDARDS

All items processed in accordance with EN14065 RABC system, meeting all HIQA requirements

WE MAINTAIN All residents’ belongings are returned in their personalised bag, laundered and folded

PERSONALISED SERVICE Pick-ups and deliveries as per your schedule requirements

9000

Elis Textile Services Ltd - Care Home Division 100 Hawthorn Road, Dublin, D12 Y79

9001:2015

ie.elis.com/care-homes For further information please call: 1800 777 464

Excellence in Public Sector Sustainability Services Award Best Laundry Provider

Specialising in bespoke solutions to Irish nursing homes, Elis offers a complete textile rental and laundry service developed to cater for the unique needs of the Irish healthcare sector.

ELIS Vanda Oliveira - Elis driver and creator of the stunning outdoor space at Hawthorn Rd.

The establishment of the Elis care homes division was pioneered by Margaret Mullen, the General Manager for the Hawthorn Road facility. Initiating research into the sector, Margaret identified the unique issues faced by nursing homes in Ireland. Nursing home managers wanted to provide a service that offered the same level of care as a resident would have if they were still at home, while achieving a consistent standard of compliance as required by HIQA. However, that requires a significant commitment in terms of space, staff and time to ensure that all procedures are adhered to. Significant investment is also required in specialised equipment which must then be meticulously maintained. The research reported the frustration felt by managers with the amount of time they were required to spend away from their residents and staff to manage issues as varied as equipment faults, maintenance scheduling and rosters. It became clear that the Irish nursing home sector required a tailored service for their residents’ clothing and possessions that provided flexibility, reliability, and laundering processes with standardised and independently audited hygiene standards. Elis provides bed, bath and table linens, scrubs, uniforms, mats, mops and washroom facilities, delivered within a rental maintenance model that prioritises services over products, and rental over purchase,

allowing for a reduction in carbon emissions of up to 37% compared to a purchase solution and up to 48% reduction in water consumption. The Elis home care division has been developed specifically for residents’ clothing, providing a complete end-to-end solution. Its custom-built facilities are independently audited by the NSAI and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Risk analysis and biocontamination controls (RABC) have been implemented and meet the European NF EN 14065 standard. Margaret remarks: “We provide a nationwide service with an unrivalled network, accredited systems and a dedicated customer service team that are available to advise and support Irish nursing homes every step of the way.” Margaret explains: “Our system offers full transparency and traceability. Labels with a unique barcode specific to each resident are created and applied to their belongings, even each individual sock is labeled.” Elis provides net bags to ensure that residents’ possessions are kept together and can always be accounted for. Should an item find itself in a different bag, Elis ensures it is returned to its rightful owner at the packing stage; bags are scanned, weighed and recorded in the usage reports which are shared with management on a weekly basis. This provides complete transparency and traceability.

The Elis Care homes division offers bespoke solutions to Irish nursing homes, with circularity at their core and is continually seeking ways to deliver a sustainable and environmentally sound service. EcoVardis, a company that provides business sustainability ratings, bestowed Elis with a Gold Medal in August 2023, ranking Elis in the top 5% of the over 90,000 companies reviewed. “We were also recently graded an A-, by the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), which conducts independent evaluations based on a company’s strategy, management, performance, and stakeholder engagement regarding the environment,” Margaret remarks. “These rankings recognise Elis’s longstanding commitment to the circular economy; supported by our CSR objectives and validated by SBTi. In addition to our objectives to reduce Scope 1,2 & 3 emissions, we are also committed to empowering our employees and supporting their personal and professional growth. Vanda, one our most dedicated drivers, created an incredible outdoor space, reusing and recycling materials, for our entire team to enjoy when they are taking their breaks or after their shift. I am lucky to have such a creative, passionate an dedicated team.” Margaret sums up, saying: “Elis offers Irish nursing homes the opportunity to stay focused on taking care of their residents, which is what they do best – while leaving the laundering of their personal possessions and linens to us – which is what we do best.”

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Prefabricated houses

Mass timber construction

Charred & Thermo Wood Cladding

iDomus offers sustainable building solutions using GLULAM timber, Woodﬁbre insulation and Timber cladding. HBE (glulam) is a construction system made of combination Mass Timber panels and GL beams. All construction elements are made from kiln-dried wood and prefabricated in the factory. This building system should be chosen by people who prefer eco-friendly and sustainable living. iDomus Wood Only envelope is a fast-track building system 100% sustainable, reusable, recyclable and suitable for domestic, commercial, or public buildings. We also provide mainly European timber cladding species in natural kiln dried or ﬁre/ heat treatment like Charred Larch, Charred Nordic Spruce, Charred Accoya, Natural kiln dry Larch, Thermo Pine, Aspen, Alder. Timber cladding is very much suitable for Irish climate, correct preparation and installation gives great achievement for design, low maintenance and for sure sustainable and eco-friendly factor.

FREE QUOTATION

iDomus can provide a free quotation for your project. For the estimate, please email your project: ﬂoor plans and all elevations drawings with the dimensions to info@idomus.ie

iDomus Construction unit 7, Killygarry Business Park, Cavan, Co. Cavan, Ireland

+353 87 970 5600 info@idomus.ie

www.idomus.ie

Excellence in Construction Eco-friendly Building Products Sustainable Building Solutions

iDomus offers sustainable building solutions using Glulam timber, wood-fibre insulation and timber cladding. HBE (glulam) is a construction system comprising mass timber panels and GL beams.

iDOMUS iDomus wood-only envelope is a fast-track building system which is 100% sustainable, reusable, recyclable and suitable for domestic, commercial, or public buildings. This Scandinavian way of building is ideal for the wet, damp, and mild Irish climate. All construction elements are made from kilndried wood and prefabricated in the factory. This building system is ideal for people striving for eco-friendly and sustainable living. iDomus also provides mainly European timber cladding species in natural kiln-dried or fire/ heat treatment such as charred Larch, charred Nordic Spruce, charred Accoya, natural kilndried Larch, Thermo Pine, Aspen and Alder. Timber cladding is generally ideal for the Irish environment - all it takes to get outstanding design, combined with low maintenance, sustainable and eco-friendly characteristics, is knowing the right material to use, how to prepare the surface and how to install it. iDomus was established and registered in 2009 when Managing Director, Dainius Prakapavicius worked in renovation and maintenance in the Irish construction sector. After training in 2014 in Germany, Dainius started looking for new green, modern construction methods to bring to Ireland. Since 2017 iDomus has been the Mayer Melnhof glulam factory distributor in Ireland, and since 2022, the Degmeda Charred Cladding Timber brand agent for Ireland. Dainius explains the challenges faced by the business: “Like all new inventions and technologies, it can be difficult stepping

into a conservative industry like construction. The main challenge is the lack of correct information, a massive drive for mass timber construction. Now we are investing in distributing information, CPD and other forms for the public and professionals to learn about green and sustainable living possibilities. “On a highly positive note, we are already two steps ahead, towards sustainable and carbon-negative construction - not just in the Irish context, but in the European construction perspective. We are constantly working with educational institutions such as the University of Galway, ATU Sligo and industry professionals to keep us up to date and drive us further. Participating in seminars and trade shows keeps us up to date with the current market.” “Some professionals choose not to use the mass timber system, simply because they lack the necessary expertise. Therefore, we must work with educational institutions, professionals and share all our knowledge about the benefits of using eco-friendly materials in the construction sector.” “With every enquiry we receive, we make an effort to inform and support our customers. We are on the same sustainability journey because most of our customers genuinely care about the healthy living environment, home air quality, sustainability and leaving the smallest possible carbon imprint for future generations.”

iDomus is devoted to offering consumers carbon-reducing and carbon-eliminating construction systems. The iDomus woodonly envelope technology is a truly green home construction method. Each component was carefully chosen for its lack of chemicals or materials that would contaminate the environment after its life cycle. Additionally, the firm’s cladding timbers are responsibly sourced and treated naturally, such as charred with fire and only natural mineral oils applied. Danius cites the firm’s greatest accomplishments as serving as a sustainability ambassador, and the recognition of its environmental efforts. For the entire iDomus team, receiving the award represents a significant accomplishment and milestone. “Our environmentally friendly and sustainable work will continue. We hope to see a significant portion of Irish structures constructed in the future, utilizing eco-friendly and sustainable techniques. We intend to provide our customers with a database of prefabricated modules and off-shelf building solutions. Also, we want to build a hospital and a school using our eco-friendly mass timber method. “Although the business environment isn’t always straightforward, we must keep working. We will not give up in the face of challenges because our objective is to make incremental efforts to combat global warming,” he concludes.

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Platinum Tanks is a rotational moulding company based in southern Ireland. We have been creating sustainable, renewable and environmentally friendly solutions for domestic oil and water storage since 2006. Platinum Tanks now employ over 30 staﬀ members and supply north and south Ireland as well as the UK with an ever-expanding range of domestic oil storage tanks, domestic attic tanks, rain water harvesting tanks, oil interceptors, coal bunkers and agricultural products.

FUEL STORAGE | WATER TANKS | AGRICULTURAL | CONSTRUCTION | BUNKERS

Powerful TUSCON 1000 watt pump motor Plug in installation. High head of pressure and flow rate performance. The pump system can be removed for easy installation and servicing. Shut-off valve as standard. Constant water pressure and flow. 3 Year registered product warranty with TUSCON

T: +353 42 9745780/81

Platinum Booster tank 340l Vert/horiz The Platinum Booster tank is used for both domestic and commercial clean water applications. It is designed for storing clean and potable water for reliable constant water pressure and the tank comes in a vertical and horizontal model. Features: Easy ﬁt horizontal or vertical design. The tank can ﬁt through ceiling openings. WRAS approved tank - ribbed tank to give strength. 2 year registered warranty on booster tank as per manufactures guidelines

E: sales@platinum-tanks.ie

www.platinum-tanks.ie

Serving the energy, domestic, construction and agricultural sectors with a growing range of fuel, water, meal and material storage solutions, Platinum Tanks is an industry-leading, family-run business that utilises renewable, sustainable resources to create exceptional products.

Innovation in Business Environment & Sustainability Manufacturing Specialist Award

PLATINUM TANKS Manufacturing an ever-expanding range of domestic oil storage tanks, domestic attic tanks, rainwater harvesting tanks, oil interceptors, coal bunkers and agricultural products from its base in County Monaghan, Platinum Tanks is a rotational moulding company that has been creating sustainable, renewable and environmentally friendly solutions for domestic oil and water storage since 2006.

We’re also looking at new ideas to make life easier for farmers. I do a bit of farming myself, so this is an area I’m familiar with. The age profile of the average farmer in Ireland is 50+ and we’re trying to come up with solutions that help to reduce the amount of labour required on the farm. We manufacture plastic meal bins, cattle drinkers, drinkers for slatted sheds that don’t need cleaning out, and also a range of teat feeders and troughs.”

We are a plastics manufacturing business employing 30+ people at our state-of-theart facility in County Monaghan,” explains Managing Director Pat Cassidy. “Our process is Rotational Moulding and we manufacture a wide range of containers for the domestic oil and water industries as well as a range of agricultural products, custom mouldings and cold water pressure boosting tanks. Our markets are Ireland north and south along with mainland UK. We serve builders merchants, plumbers’ merchants, oil depots, Agri stores and Agri Co-Ops.”

“Currently we are focusing on developing our Agri range, water storage and renewables as in our ever-changing world, we must react to changes coming into force,” Pat notes. “Our business is different to other major players in that we are family run and our core values of customer service, sustainable products and fair pricing never waivers. We have a dedicated staff and workforce that embrace this ethos and fully focus on the needs of our customers.” It’s a formula that clearly works as company turnover has grown from two million sales to five million+. “Having ten admin staff and twenty-five production and delivery personnel, we are well equipped to look after all of our customer’s needs,” Pat adds. “Our staff members are with us from when we started in business and we are only as good as our people. Everybody works to ensure ease of manufacturing, sales and delivery.”

Driving the growth of the business is diversification. “We’re always developing new products, new ideas and innovations in response to market needs,” Pat notes. “On top of this, we constantly look at existing products and try to improve them. For example, we have developed a range of pressure-booster water tanks for homes with low mains pressure.

When it comes to inspiration and dedication there is no end to what Pat and his team can achieve, and they plan to grow the business even further over the coming years. They have deservedly achieved the respect of their peers as well as industry recognition with numerous awards for industry programmes like Intertrade Ireland, Fusion Programme, Renewable Engine Programme, Challenge Programme and the Excellence in Business Award. For all of their success, this is still very much a local family business. Pat is proud to be a key employer in a rural area and the company supports the local community and local charities in any way they can. “We’re a family business, located in Lough Egish, run by locals and looking after locals, with a strong attachment to the GAA and our local community,” he adds proudly. When asked what the most important thing he has learned in business, Pat’s response is characteristically understated: “The most important thing in business is respect, listen to others, never forget where you come from and most of all, make sure what you sell is value for money.”

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CUBICM3 IS IRELAND’S LEADING PROVIDER OF SUSTAINABLE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS

STORMWATER ATTENUATION SOLAR PANELS COLD WATER STORAGE SEPTIC SOLUTIONS OIL SEPARATORS EV CHARGING STATIONS FLOW CONTROLS ASHFORD FORMULA

INSTALLING FOR: COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE & PUBLIC WORK DEVELOPMENTS

PROUDLY FOUNDED IN IRELAND IN 2003

01 808 4330 www.cubicm3.ie sales@cubicm3.ie

Excellence In Public Sector Sustainable Engineering Solutions Support Services Award

CubicM3 provides end-to-end sustainable engineered solutions in water management and renewable energy, working with both the Public and Private sectors throughout the island of Ireland and the UK.

CUBICM3 CubicM3 has been active in Stormwater Management systems internationally for over twenty years and in Solar Energy for over a decade, earning the firm an unrivalled depth of knowledge and experience. On the water side, CubicM3’s core business began with providing stormwater management systems. The company soon added rainwater harvesting and water storage systems, followed latterly by pressure sewer solutions. CubicM3 was one of the first in Ireland to offer Solar Photovoltaic (PV) in 2009. The firm specialises in commercial, industrial and multihome residential Solar PV systems, associated battery storage, and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging. Managing Director Justin Elliott explains how the firm navigated the period during and after the pandemic. “Construction shutdowns, travel restrictions and subsequent supply chain issues during the pandemic were significant challenges. Early on, we proactively enabled remote working and then developed new supply chain options and logistics routes. We have come through this challenging time and demonstrated our team’s resilience in adversity. “It’s important that we work hard to stay ahead of the competition. We anticipate how macro factors will impact our customers and adapt and adjust internally to provide value solutions that meet their needs. For example, climate

change and sky-rocketing energy prices continue to shape our marketplace. Still, we expected capital constraints to delay decisions to install Solar PV, so we partnered with Capital Flow to provide financing options to facilitate customers making the switch.

“We constantly monitor how climate, economic and political developments will impact our customers. We are ahead of the curve in terms of educating ourselves and identifying new products and services that will help our clients meet their ever-changing needs.”

“We anticipated an earlier push towards sustainability in response to climate change issues and were surprised it initially took so long to gain traction. But the climate agenda is certainly mainstream now, and we are delighted to see a strong commitment from the Public Sector.”

CubicM3 has built a highly talented team of engineers, designers, installers, managers and support staff, including staff that have been with the firm for nearly 20 years. In addition to competitive remuneration, flexible working and commitment to training, the firm has resumed face-to-face staff social activities over the past year, which both managers describe as having been “a lot of fun”.

Established in Dublin in 2003, CubicM3 grew organically to become Ireland’s most trusted provider of sustainable products. The firm proactively obtained regulatory engineering approvals and certifications to develop new markets for its product lines in Ireland, the UK, Australia and the Middle East. CubicM3 is committed to the Irish market and continues working with its customers to value-engineer bespoke solutions that best meet their needs. CubicM3 has a strong customer care philosophy as Head of Business Development, Paddy Coakley explains: “We pride ourselves on our integrity and partnering approach to delivering value solutions for our clients. We always go the extra mile to deliver projects on time and budget, which is reflected in the fact that over 75% of our current order book is repeat business.

During 2022 CubicM3 completed several technically complex and challenging projects, including attenuation at Dublin Airport, rainwater harvesting and cold water storage at the new children’s hospital, and solar installations including the Garda SCO. Winning the Public Sector Excellence in Business award for the third year running is credited to the hard work of the whole team at CubicM3. “We have clear goals about where we are going as a business,” says Justin. “Climate change will increasingly impact on us all and we are well-placed to help our customers meet these challenges. We have recently added new products to our range of offerings, including industrial tanks for bulk liquid storage, and ground-mounted and parking-structure solar, which will further help us to broaden our offering.”

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SPECIALIST RESTORATION

• Tuck Repointing

• Chimney Repair

• Flush Repointing

• Lime Plastering

• Wigging Repointing

• Stone Repairs

• New Stone Buiding

• Cornice Repair

• Facade Sealing/Repair

Tel: + 353 - 1 - 401 8500 Fax: + 353 - 1 - 401 8501 Nolans Group Limited, Unit 408L, Grants Park, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin

www.nolansgroup.ie

Excellence in Public Sector Conservation & Restoration Company of the Year

Nolans Group Conservation & Restoration is a well-respected specialist conservation contractor with a team of highly skilled employees restoring the old protected structures of Ireland with innovative methods and traditional skills. The company has been in existence for over 25 years and in that time has worked on some of the country’s largest conservation projects bringing with it a long list of satisﬁed clients.

NOLANS GROUP Nolans Group Conservation & Restoration offers a combination of traditional skills and innovative repair techniques to cater for the conservation and sustainability demands presented by historic buildings. Nolans Group Conservation & Restoration has worked on some of Ireland’s largest and most significant conservation projects, ranging from McKee Barracks for the Department of Defence to one of the largest Georgian mansions in Dublin at Number 3 Henrietta Street. The primary services the company provides are lime-based façade repointing, specialist façade cleaning using the DOFF system, Helifix structural repairs and they also have a team of stonemasons carrying out rebuilding to various masonry structures including stone arches, chimneys and boundary walls. Company Director Shane Nolan is keenly interested in the use, development and promotion of building limes, sensitive masonry repair and cleaning techniques. He serves on the board of the Building Limes Forum Ireland. The company as a whole provides several services to the Public Sector. Nolans Group Conservation & Restoration has worked on numerous conservation projects with Dublin City Council, including City Hall, Dame

Street; Red Stables, St. Anne’s Park, Raheny and the Jewish Cemetery in Ballybough, carrying out various conservation works, including stone and brick repointing and masonry repairs. Over the years the works carried out by The Nolans Group have gained recognition particularly the refurbishment of 18 Ormond Quay for its clients Dublin Civic Trust. This conservation project was awarded the prestigious Europa Nostra Award for 2021 and featured on RTE’s Nationwide programme. More recently, the company was awarded the Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award in 2022. This recognition, along with the company’s presence on The Register of Heritage Contractors Ireland means work is never in short supply. In recent times due to the impact caused by Brexit, the increased costs of raw materials and longer lead times, Nolans has had to change its approach to the business and innovate. For example the firm now manufactures bricks and terracotta specials for project use. In the last 18-24 months, Nolans has begun to specialise in the repair and manufacturing of bespoke brick and clay products for building conservation works. It most recently carried this out in McKee Army Barracks, where they set up a brick

manufacturing plant and produced over 30,000 clay red brick specials to restore two accommodation blocks within the barracks. In terms of the future, The Nolans Group has several projects in the pipeline. It has recently begun works on a row of five Georgian properties in Merrion Square, Merrion Square, Dublin and stone conservation works to The Magazine Fort, Phoneix Park for the OPW. The ﬁrm is also working on restoring the famous Loftus Hall country house in Co. Wexford which is being converted into a luxury hotel. The works involve lime plastering and re-making of terracotta balustrades. The Public Sector is important to The Nolans Group particularly as a specialist conservation contractor as it allows it to work on some of the country’s most historic buildings and contribute to Ireland’s built heritage to return these historic structures to their natural beauty. All projects are carried out respecting the original structure, materials and methods, with the conservation principle of minimum intervention being implemented at all times.

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Electricity 4.0: Powering the New Electric World We believe a more electric and digital world is key to a sustainable and resilient future.

Scan the QR code for further information

se.com/ie

Excellence in Energy Management Integrated Solutions Sustainability & Efficiency

Schneider Electric Ireland provides energy and digital automation solutions for efficiency and sustainability. It is part of the French multinational company Schneider Electric and was formed in 1984.

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC Schneider Electric’s mission is to partner with its customers and industry as a digital partner for sustainability and efficiency. The company drives digital transformation by integrating world-leading processes and energy technologies to realise efficiency and sustainability opportunities for business. Schneider Electric provides end-point to cloud integration connecting products, controls, software and services. The firm’s integrated solutions are built with safety, reliability and cybersecurity for homes, buildings, data centres, infrastructure and industries. Schneider Electric has deep roots in Ireland, stretching back to the creation of ‘Schneider Electric Ireland Limited’ in 1984 and its acquisition of APC, including the Galway manufacturing facility, in 1994. Schneider Electric Ireland currently employs approximately 400 people across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland with Dublin, Galway, and Belfast facilities. As with many companies, Schneider Electric faced challenges in the last few years as Country President Chris Collins explains, “Currently, we face the same challenges around rising energy costs, the rising cost of raw materials, wage inflation etc., as everyone else. However, our investment in digital transformation has meant that we already operate with an elevated level of efficiency, which reduces the overall impact. We are pleased to be able to share our

consultancy, technology and digital solutions with our partners and customers to help them reduce their energy expenditure and simultaneously reduce their carbon footprint.”

on ESG considerations than they are now. Schneider has long embraced those issues, and we keep raising the bar for ourselves, our customers, and partners.”

Schneider Electric continually strives to stay ahead of the competition in a highly competitive sector. “Our generation faces a tectonic shift in energy transition and industrial revolution catalysed by accelerated digitisation in a more electric world,” Chris adds. “We believe a more electric and digital world is the only way to address the climate challenge and enable a sustainable and resilient future. This convergence of technologies, called Electricity 4.0, is our vision for this new era and represents clean, renewable energy at scale, driving innovations and efficiency - a fundamental shift in how we use, save and distribute energy.

For Schneider Electric, it is important that its employees share the same values as the company, particularly regarding environmental responsibility. “Greenwashing and superficial tinkering are no longer acceptable,” explains Chris, “a company’s ‘license to operate’ and ability to attract and retain talent must include a determined effort to protect the environment and move to net-zero emissions. Meeting sustainability targets is a business imperative for Schneider Electric, so it is ingrained into every aspect of the business. For all our employees, these sustainability targets are embedded into personal goals, communicated regularly during pulse calls, and are part of the annual bonus criteria.

Combined with a circular economy approach, Schneider aim to achieve a climate-positive impact as part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “Working as a digital partner for our clients, we take a collaborative approach to carbon and environmental solutions with products, solutions and services that companies can utilise at all stages in their sustainability journey,” Chris notes. “The core of our strategy is to build a sustainable business and company. Customers, employees, partners and investors have never been more focused

“We also take our responsibilities to our people and the communities we serve extremely seriously, actively seeking to boost equal opportunities, gender diversity and inclusion and support every generation. The pandemic changed the face of leadership for good. We have accelerated into a high-touch, high-tech mode of leadership, seeing into colleagues’ homes, becoming intertwined with their personal lives, and getting to know our staff on a deeper level.”

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part of the

Tilbury House, 25 James Street, Kilkenny , IE

Killaree Lighting Services (KLS) is a public lighting company based in Kilkenny City. The firm was established in July 2010 with a small team of employees which has grown significantly over the past 12 years.

Excellence in Public Sector Energy Efficient Lighting Lighting Solutions Award

KILLAREE LIGHTING SERVICES KLS has recently been awarded the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project (PLEEP) for the Eastern Region which will see nine local authorities and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) invest €50 million in upgrading their public lighting to Light Emitting Diode LED technology. PLEEP Eastern Region will upgrade approximately 73,500 public lights across Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Westmeath, and Wicklow County Councils, as well as Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). After being awarded these new contracts, KLS is looking to expand its workforce and has openings for senior and junior quantity surveyors; health and safety assistants; junior health and safety assistants; groundworkers/ general operatives; truck drivers and fully qualified electricians. Like other companies, KLS has encountered challenges on its journey. Instead of running

away from them, the firm has faced them head-on and is moving forward positively. KLS has always been prepared for tough situations, and so despite the global challenges of recent years, was prepared and ready to act appropriately. KLS has a solid and clear manifesto for its business which includes: consultation with others; investment in technology solutions; solving problems; listening to client feedback; planning ahead and learning from mistakes. KLS delivers extraordinary customer service and aims to do business differently than its competitors. The KLS team is honest about its products and services and believes in working to the highest standard possible and fixing problems to build stronger client relationships.

The firm is constantly training in the most up-to-date technology used in the industry, looking out for the next new technology in the electrical sector or public lighting modules and liaising with suppliers to ensure that they are up-to-date or ahead of the competition. KLS is a sister company to Total Highway Maintenance Limited. THM is a construction company with a civils and building division and a traffic management division. THM is based in the same location as KLS. THM works for several local authorities and government bodies, including Irish Rail Maintenance. The firm is currently working on several tenders, some of which it has already won, with a view to building and expanding the company. THM is also increasing its workforce to fill positions at various levels.

KLS works closely with national and international suppliers to ensure the highest quality of materials are used in all its works.

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LEADING THE WAY IN SUSTAINABLE CONSUMABLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

Our commitment to

Sustainable Packaging

At Zeus Packaging we recognise that we have a responsibility to preserve, conserve and sustain the world we live in, both today and for future generations.

WHY ZEUS?

OUR RANGE

We believe that every person and every business that decides to switch to sustainable packaging is making an immeasurably positive difference for the future of our planet. We are all responsible for the damage we inflict on our planet and it is down to us all to fix it.

Our diverse range of over 8000 products ensures we can tailor the perfect packaging solution for your business. The sectors we cater to include food service & retail, agricultural, industrial, fashion retail, hospitality, cleaning & hygiene and many others!

Understanding the needs of our customers, enables us to investigate the possibilities for using new, innovative environmentally friendlier packaging, which can help facilitate a reduction in the weight of packaging used without compromising performance.

CALL TODAY TO ARRANGE YOUR FREE SUSTAINABILITY AUDIT

We are a leading specialist distribution and manufacturing group, supplying a diverse range of products and supply solutions to a wide range of customer markets all over the world. We are confident that we can provide you with a bespoke package that perfectly fits the needs of your business.

01-4018900

hello@zeus.ie | www.zeuspackaging.com

Excellence in Packaging Sustainable Solutions Support Services Award

Zeus Packaging is a leading specialist manufacturing and distribution group supplying a diverse range of sustainable packaging solutions.

ZEUS PACKAGING Zeus provides creative packaging design and engineering services combined with technology-driven supply chain solutions, offering local and global businesses bespoke capabilities tailored to their needs. The firm manufactures paper and board packaging products, including corrugated packaging solutions, retail-ready packaging, e-commerce packaging, toilet tissue, agricultural and industrial stretch films, food packaging containers, printed tapes and much more. When you choose Zeus, trained staff will assess your needs, audit your business process and packaging requirements, presenting bespoke innovative packaging from the in-house design, print and production teams. Zeus has grown organically in key markets in which it operates (retail, industrial, pharma, luxury packaging and crop packaging). During recent years, the firm has strategically acquired businesses and invested in warehousing and IT Infrastructure to strengthen its capabilities in the food service, retail, logistics and manufacturing sectors. This has allowed the firm to expand its geographical reach, strengthen its resources and capabilities and leverage economies of scale. Zeus currently operates in 50 locations across 30 countries worldwide with a workforce of 1200. Customers include brands such as Kerry

Group, Musgrave Group, Dunnes Stores, HSE, Supermac’s, BWG, Insomnia Coffee, and Ryanair to name a few, with other international and European brands such as Harrods, McDonald’s, Booths Food & Wine, Boohoo, River Island, KFC, Circle-K Forecourts, Lidl, Aldi, Morrisons and M&S among a wide range of major clients. Like any successful team, Zeus wins by working together, playing to each other’s strengths, respecting one another’s roles and responsibilities, brainstorming together and ensuring everyone is focused on one thing the customer. Zeus promotes a ‘can-do’ attitude, a ‘never give up’ culture and a relentless pursuit of innovating sustainable solutions aligned to the needs of its customers while ensuring the firm does what it can to protect the planet. Putting customers first runs through the DNA of the Zeus team as explained by group COO Adrian Lannon: “It’s the very soul of our business. We aim to bring the best out in people, valuing and encouraging all staff to respect our colleagues, to act with integrity, be courageous, be ambitious, and most importantly, to put the customer first in everything we do.” Adrian continued by expanding on the firm’s environmental commitment: “Zeus has a moral and professional duty of care to ensure

our operational activity and commercial proposition is designed to be kind to the environment, caring for the world we live in and ensuring a sustainable future. We are fully committed to reducing our carbon emissions and have signed up to the SBTi. “We’ve set up Zeus Sustain which provides environmental product and service strategies for our customers, ensuring strong governance of scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions. We will assist in supporting individual environmental strategies. Zeus Sustain offers a full suite of products and services designed to encourage recycling and closed-loop initiatives, introducing strategies that improve recycling efficiency, eliminate wasteful practices, and reduce carbon footprint.” According to Adrian, through environmentally responsible packaging, innovation and technology, aligned to a science-based approach to optimising operations and eliminating waste, the Zeus team of sustainability experts can tailor a credible solution to help customers on their journey to net zero. It is clear that as a company Zeus is not standing still. The firm’s global business is aligned, and Adrian and his team are looking forward to the next chapter of Zeus Packaging Group as they bring more market-moving packaging solutions to the markets they serve.

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GREEN by Nature Ireland has been green for thousands of years. The truth of this can be seen when we shine a light on local sustainability stories and highlight our historical cultural offering. From lush rolling hills, to preserved community traditions, rich local cuisine and organic produce, Ireland exemplifies a green way of life and sustainability from the ground up. Three years on from the start of the pandemic, a new profile of sustainable travelling has emerged, with environmental and ethical considerations emerging as key factors in travel decision-making. According to a report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and Trip.com, 69% of tourists plan to travel sustainably in 2023. This evolution in mindset comes at a time when responsible travel is urgently needed. Whether the requirement means reducing energy consumption or preserving the

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culture of a local community, sustainability is no longer a choice, but an imperative that will impact our society and the tourism industry in the years to come. So, what exactly is sustainable tourism? The UN Environment Programme, and the World Tourism Organisation state that it is: “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities.” By its nature, tourism values the things we celebrate in our world – the stunning landscapes, the wildlife, history, culture, and the art and music of the local people. It sparks growth in the local economy, providing jobs, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and money for preservation. However, when not managed well, tourism can destroy what it relies upon.

A prime example is the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren Ecotourism Network. For many years people parked on roadsides leading to the cliffs, trampling across flora and fauna on a dangerous and badly worn cliff path. Now, there is ample car parking alongside an impressive interpretive centre which blends perfectly with the protected hillside. It’s a win-win for nature and for the natural attraction. Lonely Planet – a bible for independent travellers – named the Burren Ecotourism Network as the world’s best community tourism project. They described it as: “An impressive community collaboration of local enterprises which has transformed Ireland’s Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark into a global leader for sustainable tourism.” Businesses across the island are being recognised by organisations and initiatives such as Sustainable Travel Ireland, Green

full flow, this supplies 100% of the hotel’s electricity needs. Ireland’s first ‘Net Zero Carbon’ hotel can be found in the capital city. Wren Urban Nest is the most sustainable place to stay in Dublin but does not skimp on style. A ‘luxury without guilt’ hostelry, which burns no fossil fuels, and uses a unique heating system powered by cutting edge HVAC sustainable technology. Using no single-use plastics, they actively choose recycled, biodegradable products, and where possible, locally Irish made products and materials throughout the hotel. Clare’s charming Hotel Doolin was the first carbon-neutral hotel in Ireland. Here, plastic bottles and single-use items are banned; rainwater is harvested and carbon emissions are offset in a nearby woodland. In a charming nod to sustainability, the hotel plants ten native Irish trees locally for every wedding celebration that takes place there. Even Dublin Airport has achieved carbon neutrality following an extensive program of activities to reduce and offset its carbon emissions in recent years. The airport reduced its carbon footprint by 12% between

2018 and 2019 and reduced its overall carbon emissions by 25% between 2013 and 2019, despite a 63% increase in passenger numbers over the same period. The airport has introduced a wide range of energy management measures that enable it to control and improve its overall energy consumption across the campus. The use of building management systems, the installation of efficient LED lighting, a solar farm pilot project and a range of other measures have enabled the airport to significantly reduce its overall energy consumption. Greening Food and Drink The Irish food scene has exploded with freshness and flavour in recent years, bringing a sophisticated craft drinks industry along with it. From farm to fork and grain to glass, the Irish offering is hard to surpass. The Farm to Fork concept is at the heart of the European Green Deal aiming to make food systems healthy and environmentally friendly. It has been embraced by Irish hospitality providers, some showing remarkable ingenuity in their quest to be the best.

Falls Hotel, Ennistymon

Hospitality and Origin Green for committing to sustainable standards and practices. Hundreds more have become members of Leave No Trace Ireland, aiming to limit the impacts that come with outdoor recreation. Hospitality hotspots now offer a host of eco-friendly measures, from renewable energy to recycled furniture, zero food waste and biodegradable materials to rainwater harvesting and even living walls. Yet sustainability does not have to equal sacrifice. Salthouse Eco Hotel in County Antrim is powered by on-site wind turbines and solar panels, lit by energy-efficient LEDs and is free from single-use plastics, but its guilt-free status doesn’t detract from its grandeur. A similar story can be told of the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon which among other measures, installed a hydroelectric turbine on the river running alongside. When the river is in

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Checking in at several hospitality hotspots are bee hotels in response to the worrying decline of wild pollinators. Not only are bees critical to agriculture and growing food, but they’re also necessary for wild plants to flourish. Without bees, plants would simply die off. Their decline is one of the biggest threats facing agriculture today.

For hotels, there are a range of plumbing components designed to keep a cap on water wastage. Shower heads fitted with Hansgrohe EcoSmart technology, for example, allow users to use less water with little overall impact to the experience of washing, which helps to 'green-ify' a business’s image while delivering significant savings on operational costs.

One pollinator under threat is the Irish Black Honeybee, and to improve their numbers, Power’s Whiskey has partnered with The Devlin Hotel in Dublin and OpenHive, and now boasts a bee hotel sitting atop the Ranelagh based hostelry. Having created a hive of tranquillity on the rooftop, the spoils are put to good use in the kitchen with a selection of urban honey dishes and honey-inspired cocktails mixed with whiskey.

A new buzz for hospitality are bee hotels in response to their worrying decline. Saving the planet means saving the bees, and their spoils are served up in sumptuous sauces and sweet honey coctails.

The Wilder Townhouse in Dublin has introduced its own Wilder Beehives. Here guests can enjoy locally produced bee’s nectar as part of their ‘Wild’ experience. Waste Not Want Not They say that necessity is the mother of invention and many innovative companies have sprung up to address emerging issues in the new ecofriendly world. Food waste is a major issue for the hospitality industry’s environmental impact where the appetite for fresh ingredients means that food waste is inevitable. Fortunately, there are plenty of forward-thinking solutions that can help. Companies such as Too Good To Go run an exceptionally progressive business model, which “lets customers buy and collect Magic Bags of food” at a great price – directly from businesses.” By partnering with these kinds of services, hospitality businesses are reducing their environmental impact while recouping some of the money that might otherwise go to waste on food that never gets eaten. Hospitality businesses face a particular challenge when it comes to preserving water, as in most cases the lion’s share of water usage is not under their control. Table talkers in bathrooms, asking guests to be mindful of their water usage, or reminding guests how much of a difference they can make by turning off the tap, can have surprisingly big impacts on the cost of water bills and overall sustainability throughout the business.

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machines, allowing staff members to process payments on the go – perfect for a dynamic hospitality setting. And when it comes to cash, like it or not, we are moving towards a cashless society, and hospitality providers are proactively embracing this shift. For busy bar and restaurant environments companies such as SumUp offer affordable portable card

No-one can keep their head in the sand any longer confronted with the dramatic climate changes we are experiencing due to our own actions and consumerism. As suppliers and providers in the industry and as travellers taking up the offering, we must

Ireland has adopted the UNWTO definition of sustainable tourism: “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” work together making every effort to walk the eco-tourism road to ensure that the future is bright. Sustainable & Beneficial Futures A decade ago, sustainability in the hospitality sector was a ‘nice to have,’ option, but today it is a business imperative, as more and more people not only make sustainable travel

choices, but they are also prepared to pay a premium for them. Therefore, sustainability in hospitality is also good business. Sustainable actions not only help to protect the environment — which is a noble goal unto itself — but they enhance the reputation of the business attracting a new generation of eco-conscious guests.

Moreover, sustainable practices can help to reduce operational costs and increase efficiency, providing long-term financial benefits. Promoting eco-tourism in Ireland is a win for the global environment, a win for the hospitality sector and a win for the ecotraveller.

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Fota Wildlife Park, a conservation charity and part of the Zoological Society of Ireland, is located on 100 acres at Fota Island, 10km east of Cork City and is currently the second-largest visitor attraction in Ireland outside of Leinster.

Excellence in Public Sector Hospitality Conservation in Action 40 Years of Fota

FOTA WILDLIFE PARK Fota Wildlife Park’s vision is to inspire people to understand and conserve the biodiversity of our natural world. The park’s core values of conservation, education, and research have ensured that it is uniquely placed to foster greater public understanding of the threats to plant and animal habitats and decreasing global biodiversity. Fota Wildlife Park has invested considerably in the past ten years upgrading its infrastructure, including the Asian Sanctuary, which opened in 2015 and features Asian lions, Sumatran tigers, and Indian Rhino as well as an indoor Giraffe viewing area and the Madagascan Village. Fota Wildlife Park opened to the public on the 23rd of June 1983 and celebrated its 40th anniversary of Conservation in Action with a programme of events across 2023, including educational weekends and animal feeding

times. Fota Wildlife Park attracted 101,261 visitors in its first year and since then, has grown consistently, with 474,792 visitors in 2021. Spending by holidaymakers and visitors to Fota Wildlife is estimated to be worth €100 million annually to the local economy. Fota at 40, four decades of Conservation in Action, will be marked by the completion of the largest capital project to date at the Wildlife Park, the new Education, Conservation and Research Centre (ECRC), Understanding Our Sustainable Future, cofunded by the Government via the Office of Public Works (OPW), which will open in November 2023. Since Covid, the OPW has co-funded essential capital infrastructural projects including the new Spider Monkey house, the Howler Monkey habitat, and the flood defence repair to the south sea wall.

The new ECRC will replace the current education complex, initially designed as the administration, admissions, and retail centre at Fota Wildlife Park when it first opened in 1983. Sustainability is at the forefront of the design, including passive design, meaning it will produce as much energy as it needs with recycled materials, solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and external and internal living walls with living spaces for native birds and bats. The ECRC will feature a lecture theatre with a seated capacity for 260 persons which can be subdivided into two classrooms to facilitate a total onsite educational capacity of 500 students (or delegates) at any one time. The new centre will also feature a dedicated

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conservation and research centre, providing learning at every opportunity to encourage greater public engagement in areas such as biodiversity and native species conservation. Fota is a non-profit organisation and reinvests any yearly surplus into capital projects and infrastructural improvements – such as building state-of-the-art animal habitats and improvements to the visitor infrastructure and experience.

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Fota Wildlife Park also financially supports and donates vital resources to conservation projects in Ireland and abroad, such as the Irish Ladybird Research Project, the Natterjack Toad Head Starter programme, the European Life-funded Corncrake project, the Madagascan Pochard, and in Vietnam, the Tonkin Snub-nosed monkey, and the Western black crested gibbon conservation – to name a few.

Fota Wildlife Park has invested considerably in the past ten years upgrading its infrastructure, including an indoor Giraffe viewing area, the Madagascan Village and the Asian Sanctuary, which opened in 2015 and features Asian lions, Sumatran tigers, and Indian Rhino. New Education, Conservation and Research Centre at Fota Wildlife Park.

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Hook Lighthouse is the oldest intact operational lighthouse in the world, operating as a heritage and cultural visitor attraction. The team of modern-day custodians of the working lighthouse endeavour to provide fun family days out, educational tours, free events, parking, amenities, play area and family picnic areas to all its visitors.

Excellence in Tourism Ireland’s Top Attractions Award

HOOK LIGHTHOUSE The lighthouse has now returned to its 2019 figures and, in the last ten years, has seen its workforce increase by ten full-time positions. Sales have also increased, resulting in a small profit in recent years. The team’s ability to employ local students has been a bonus for the lighthouse and the local area. Recent additions to the attraction include a play area for children, a ‘Pirate Ship’, which encourages children to play with each other and interact. Hook Lighthouse is the only business with a dual E-car charger south of the closest town 30 km away. Hook Lighthouse is very much a destination point and the team is aware of its distance from most other attractions or hotels, so free parking is one of the many amenities to attract business.

The Hook Lighthouse team keep up to date with market requests and is proud to have an offering for all budgets. A tender process is currently underway for a new experience and to upgrade and expand the building to allow visitors more inside the room, including a conference area where dogs will be welcome. The Lighthouse team is proud of the service its tour guides offer and everyone who works at the attraction is dedicated to ensuring all visitors have the best experience. Manager Lorraine Waters explains: “You never know what is going on in a customer’s day. For some we might be the first people they have spoken to. We smile, joke engage, ask offer help. The smile on our customers’ faces is what we aim for every day; a smile means we have got it right.

“We ask the customer what we can do for them. It is that simple, often leading us to alter and change tours to suit individual needs.” Lorraine also pointed out the importance of retaining excellent staff: “The familiar face for those returning year after year is very important and it’s from our full-time staff that our new members learn. We upskill, are flexible with days off, and run to a four-day week in the summer months as hours are longer so our staff don’t get burnt out and can spend time with family. “We close early in the run-up to Christmas ensuring our staff have significant family time. Any staff member who visits other attractions or experiences is refunded their ticket costs as they always come back with some

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information of asks. We train our students in all areas, cafe, tours and janitorial.”

heritage talks and achieve sustainable green business.

For Hook Lighthouse, the biggest achievement has been remaining open despite the challenges of recent years. Lorraine puts this down to the staff who work extra hard to provide a welcome and engage with the visitors.

Hook Lighthouse is a fine example of regenerative tourism. The lighthouse has always had its light shining, working as a navigational aid to mariners. It’s been a home for monks, knights, lighthouse keepers and their families and now in more modern times, it shares its story, providing a safe space for visitors while still carrying out its original function

Hook Lighthouse has appointed an interpretive designer to help expand the visitor experience and upgrade its facilities. Free parking, WiFi, play area and picnic benches will remain but this will allow the attraction to provide more areas for children,

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Established from a beacon in the 6th century to a grand tower built by the greatest knight that ever lived, Hook Lighthouse has a fascinating history as the world’s oldest working lighthouse

The Gateway Hotel Dundalk is a hotel and conference centre providing exceptional accommodations with 129 beautifully designed en-suite bedrooms, extensive meeting and conference facilities, two restaurants, and a coffee dock.

Excellence in Hospitality Exceptional Guest Experience Business Support Services Award

GATEWAY HOTEL DUNDALK The Gateway Hotel Dundalk offers extraordinary experiences and unmatched service to its guests, setting the standard for luxurious accommodation in Dundalk.

adapted to changing customer preferences. This, in turn, has contributed to our company's growth in terms of revenue and brand recognition.”

General Manager Brendan Joyce explains more about the hotel's ethos when it comes to offering exceptional customer service: "Over the years, The Gateway Hotel Dundalk has experienced significant growth in terms of staff numbers, innovation, and adaptation to change. We've expanded our team to meet the increasing demands of our guests, consistently improved our services, and adapted to changing market dynamics. Our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences has driven growth in sales and profits.”

The Gateway Hotel Dundalk has successfully overcome obstacles, including the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The team adapted by implementing safety measures and flexible booking options. Energy-related challenges were addressed through energyefficient technologies and sustainability practices. The hotel’s commitment to innovation and exceptional service helped the team navigate competition in the industry, ensuring continued growth.

Cormac McCann, Sales and Marketing Director goes on to say: “From a sales and marketing perspective, we've seen a steady increase in demand for our services. We've implemented innovative marketing strategies to reach a broader audience and

To remain current in an ever-changing marketplace, the hotel continually upgrades its facilities, offers bundled packages, and maintains an environmental focus. Everyone connected with the hotel believes sustainability is vital for everyone's future and is the right thing to do.

“The market's increasing awareness and appreciation of environmental sustainability has surprised us,” says Cormack. “Guests are more environmentally conscious, and this shift has encouraged us to intensify our focus on sustainable practices. “From a marketing perspective, we use data-driven strategies, strong online presence, and adapt to market trends. Our environmental focus aligns with the evolving values of today's travellers.” At The Gateway Hotel Dundalk, the customer service philosophy revolves around the concept of what the management team calls predictable consistency. "This mantra means that we are dedicated to providing guests with a dependable and consistently highquality hospitality experience, " explains Brendan. "Our philosophy is built on the idea that guests can reliably anticipate outstanding service from the moment they arrive to their departure. We place a strong emphasis on meeting and exceeding guest

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expectations, ensuring that every visit is marked by exceptional service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. "We employ a proactive approach to identify and satisfy our customer's needs at The Gateway Hotel Dundalk. First and foremost, we actively communicate with our guests to understand their specific requirements. We encourage feedback and conduct surveys to gather insights into their experiences and preferences. “We also leverage data analysis to identify trends and patterns, allowing us to anticipate and address evolving customer needs. By staying attuned to market changes and monitoring guest feedback, we can tailor our services, amenities, and packages to meet and exceed our customer's expectations consistently. Our commitment to predictably exceptional service ensures that we continuously adapt to deliver what our guests desire.”

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At The Gateway Hotel Dundalk, much emphasis is placed on recruiting and retaining key staff members. To retain and motivate its staff, the hotel prioritises several strategies, including competitive compensation, training and development, recognition and rewards, clear career paths, work-life balance and employee input. By prioritizing these strategies, the management team aims to create a supportive and motivating work environment, resulting in exceptional service for hotel guests. Cormack attributes the hotel's continued success and position in the marketplace to several factors: exceptional guest experiences, sustainability initiatives, innovative marketing, adaptation to challenges and dedicated employees.

“The market's increasing awareness and appreciation of environmental sustainability means that guests are more environmentally conscious, and this shift has encouraged us to intensify our focus on sustainable practices.”

SAFE as Houses Ireland’s housing supply continues to fall short of growing demand despite recent surges in the building of new homes. New figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that the number of new dwellings completed in the third quarter of 2023 rose by more than 14% compared to the same period last year, reflecting almost 8,500 new builds. However, the Cork city and County Kerry region has seen a dramatic fall of almost 12% in new dwellings, with the sharp increase overall still falling short of Ireland’s annual housing targets, which have been exacerbated due to a fall in existing homes on the market. The problem is compounded by this severe shortage of second-hand homes on the market, where volumes have reached an historic low. CSO figures state that 3,627 scheme dwellings were completed in the last quarter, up 1.5% annually, while single dwellings fell by almost 5% in the same period. Apartment completions increased by nearly half in the

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past 12 months, increasing by more than 47% to 3,373, 80% of which were built in Dublin. Overall, six out of eight Irish regions saw a rise in completions, with a notable drop of almost 12% in the southwest and a 0.6% fall in the southeast regarded as particularly concerning. “While the increase in housing completions is encouraging, it is still not enough," says Trevor Grant, Chairperson of the Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors (AIMA). "There is still huge demand for housing and not enough homes are available to meet demand. Unless we can put more shovelready sites in the market, our lack of supply will continue to stunt housing growth and add to the housing crisis." The crisis has been brewing for years. Many young people who would previously have flown the coop are still living at home, unable to buy or even rent their own property. Central Bank deputy governor Sharon Donnery has said that if the number of people living in

each house was in line with the EU average, there should be 260,000 more households in Ireland. This lack of supply cannot be fixed quickly. The National Economic and Social Council wrote in a major report on housing last year that: "Without a change in the system, we are condemned to an endless sequence of isolated measures that seek to generate a little more viability, a slight reduction in risk, a marginal increase in supply, a slightly higher share of affordable housing and a minor shift from greenfield to brownfield development.” The underlying challenges of the housing shortage are much more complex and political than simply finding a quicker and cheaper way to build. The crisis has increased interest in modular construction, particularly in the short term, due to savings in time, money and overcoming the shortage of skilled labour.

MMC – Rapid Build Homes A rapid build home is a high-quality dwelling mostly built off-site from the planned location and then delivered and finished on-site. This means they can be put in place quicker than standard accommodation and there is less construction disruption to the area. Modular housing units are affordable, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. They have reduced energy consumption by upwards of 40% per annum - this is especially observed in the cost of heating. The high efficiency levels of assembling modular buildings has led the Government to roll out a rapid build housing programme. Ireland was already experiencing a massive housing crisis; however, the influx of families fleeing the war in Ukraine was the straw that broke the camel's back. Temporary accommodation was severely under strain and placed a significant burden on the tourist industry, as hotels were block-booked to house refugees.

The Office of Public Works (OPW), working with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), has responsibility for delivering the programme in Ireland to address urgent, short-term housing needs. The programme aims to provide short-term accommodation to 2,000 Ukrainians at several sites across Ireland. While these homes will be used initially to house refugees temporarily, they have the potential to be utilised to address other accommodation challenges, including social housing and student accommodation. A number of sites around the country have been identified for the development of rapid-built homes. Each site will have roads, footpaths, street lighting and community facilities, including a play area and green spaces, fully in line with local authority planning guidance. The rapid-build homes will be energy efficient and durable, and sites will be developed in a way that enhances the local area. Going one step further, the Government is offering local authorities €100 million to pay off debts if they build modular homes for housing in the next two years. To qualify, the Department of Housing states that lands where debts will be covered must be suitable

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for the "immediate development" of social housing. Construction must begin in 2023 or no later than 2024 using "accelerated" delivery. The move comes in response to figures showing that a record 11,397 people are in emergency homeless accommodation, including 3,480 children. While rapid-build homes offer hope for homelessness, they do not provide a longterm solution. Modular homes currently have a lifespan of just 60 years, and there are issues with site availability, planning permission, securing mortgages and general suitability. For example, of the sites on offer for refugee homes, 85% were unsuitable for building. Conditions such as 45-degree slopes, a lack of services and infrastructure among other problems, were all issues causing delay to what seemed a quick fix solution. Sadly, there is no such thing as a quick fix to the housing crisis. According to John Maxwell, CEO of Lioncor, it may take decades to fix the Irish housing crisis: “With a deficit of 250,000 homes plus an annual required run rate of 50,000-60,000 units, means it will be decades before this problem is fixed, given the current planning blockages and general inertia. This is a real concern for Ireland’s competitiveness and our ability to continue to attract Financial Development Investment (FDI).” Dr. Roy Hearne of Maynooth Research says that the real scale of the crisis is

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underestimated. His report claims that the level of housing need and distress is over three times the current waiting lists. If you include those people who are homeless, on housing lists, in receipt of Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP); homeowners in long-term arrears and renters with unaffordable housing costs, and in buy-to-lets with payments in arrears, the total approaches 270,000 households and estimated to grow to more than half a million people. Clearly we urgently need a solution to the housing crisis - and with immediate effect - but there is some hope with

recent developments. Alternative housing schemes highlight the need for 'out of the box' thinking. With a willingness by Government to change planning laws and to explore radical new initiatives, there is hope for brighter prospects in the not too distant future.

It's fundamental – if you have a home, you have the foundation of life. Every family deserves to have a home, somewhere they can not only feel safe, but thrive.

As a leading innovator in the field of modular structures, Byrne Rapid Build Homes supplies cutting-edge factory-built homes and structures throughout Ireland and the UK.

Excellence in Business Innovation Modular Homes Sustainable Design Building & Installation

BRB HOMES From a young age, Donal Byrne displayed an entrepreneurial spirit as a child washing cars at his family home for money. After a spell working at the Olympic Park and being frustrated with the 2,000 marquee structures there, he returned to Ireland and in 2013 founded BRB Homes, then known as Big Red Barn Ltd, a company established to manufacture and supply alternative, temporary structures to the events industry.

Such was the growth of the company, it had the enviable challenge of having to relocate to larger manufacturing premises on two occasions before alighting at its current headquarters in Swinford, County Mayo, in 2018. Barely a year after that relocation, the company doubled the size of its manufacturing area and commenced manufacturing and supplying factory-built homes.

As Big Red Barn, Donal provided his event customers with structures complete with a bar, stage, flooring, furniture, lighting and other accessories required for any event. From humble beginnings with just a few employees, the BRB brand quickly grew through constant innovation. Donal was able to introduce new structures to the market each year, securing major contacts in both Ireland and the UK.

Rebranding as Byrne Rapid Build Homes in 2022, Donal and his team now provide a complete turnkey solution for planning approved A-rated homes and other structures, including school classrooms, pilates studios and home offices. BRB Homes takes care of the entire process from site survey, preparation and submission of planning applications, site groundworks, full factory manufacturing and complete on-site installation across the country.

All BRB Homes structures are manufactured at their 30,000-square-foot state-of-the-art premises. Utilising modern techniques of steel-frame construction and use of only the highest quality of materials and levels of craftsmanship allows the company to offer customers a twenty-five-year structural warranty, the longest guarantee period in the market. Donal can offer his customers an extraordinary level of customisation and supply all styles of homes, such as bungalows, dormers or twostorey. He explains, “We understand that one size does not fit all, so we ensure all of our structures are flexible in design and that every customer gets a home to suit their desired needs and budget.” This unique approach to building solutions has resulted in spectacular growth. The company’s turnover has increased by 125%

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since February 2020, and the team has expanded from 25 to 56 employees. BRB Homes has also embraced social media, which has helped both with increased enquiries and resulted in a tremendous response to a recent recruitment campaign. “We have embraced ‘lean thinking’ across all aspects of our business to help increase productivity and reduce costs and lead times. In this way, we offer significant savings for our customers over conventional construction,” Donal explains. Donal puts the success of BRB Homes down to a steely determination to overcome significant odds, investment in the most modern design software, plant and equipment, and investment in people training and continuous personal development. His employees work consistently as a team and the company mantra is, “We don’t do problems; we only do solutions.” The future looks even brighter for BRB Homes. “We have ambitious plans for further growth over the coming years as we continue to innovate and develop,” Donal says.

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All BRB Homes structures are manufactured at their 30,000-square-foot state-of-the-art premises.

COMPLETE TURN-KEY SOLUTION FROM DESIGN TO ON-SITE CONSTRUCTION All our structures are manufactured at our 30,000 sq ft premises in Swinford, County Mayo. We have a rapidly growing team of employees who all play a key part in ensuring every customer receives the highest standard product. As all our structures are manufactured and assembled by BRB employees, it guarantees consistency and quality. We use the highest quality of materials available and offer a twenty-ﬁveyear structural warranty, the longest guarantee period you will ﬁnd in the market.

+353 (0)94 900 2931

◆ Twenty-ﬁve-year structural guarantee ◆ All costs are clearly identiﬁed at the start of the process – No hidden costs or surprises. ◆ We offer customised designs to meet individual customer needs. ◆ We offer shorter lead-times than competitors due to the nature of the construction process and always deliver on-time. ◆ We manufacture homes in a panelised system, which allows for easy transportation to site on regular sized trailers and avoids the need for expensive crane-hire for on-site construction. ◆ We offer different styles of builds depending on your needs and budget. We provide Modular Builds and then our A Rated Factory Built homes that meet all building and planning regulations and are also a permanent structure. ◆ Our customer service & after-care and is second to none. ◆ We have our own in-house Chartered Building engineer to take care of your drawings and go through the planning application for you.

info@brbhomes.ie

www.brbhomes.ie

To arrange a visit to our on-site VR Suite, simply contact info@cpacmodular.com

Think Beyond Expectations Modular Building for Modern Healthcare Experience our 360° Tour of our recent project at University Hospital Waterford View on your PC www.cpacmodular.com/virtual-tours/ View on your phone Simply scan the QR code www.cpacmodular.com

SCAN ME

Excellence in Public Sector Construction Services Modular Constrution Award

Cpac Modular is a true partner of choice for public and private sector clients. The company specialises in off-site modular construction, delivering the highest quality, regulationcompliant multi-storey buildings to the education, healthcare, pharma and commercial sectors.

Cpac MODULAR Cpac Modular strategically developed its business, responding to client requirements, technical improvements across the sector and improved building regulations. The ambition and drive to be Ireland’s leading modular building company is core to everyone in the company. The firm has aligned its product offering with a particular focus on meeting its public sector clients’ environmental, sustainable and regulatory goals. Educating the market on the benefits and possibilities of 3D volumetric solutions remains a top priority for the team. Cpac Modular is an agile and proactive business. By investing in continual improvement and process refinement, the firm’s product, service and its people are equipped to respond to the needs of an ever-changing marketplace. For many years, Cpac Modular has been promoting the benefits and payback of modular and off-site construction, as Managing Director Seán Murphy explains: “The recognition by Government to wholeheartedly endorse and support MMC (Modern Methods of Construction) - in

particular modular and off-site, has been highly rewarding. We have seen a marked change in attitude across all sectors to favour high-quality, high speed and highly compliant modular buildings. “We stand out in our sector as a trusted and true partner of choice for clients because of what we offer. We are a modular contractor which provides a full turnkey package, from initial concept, design, manufacture, delivery, installation and fit out and commissioning. Our clients consistently give positive feedback and are refreshed to deal with a company who is ahead of schedule and takes the pressure off them.” The company collaborates from the outset and offers advice and experience to help its clients meet their needs. The team strives to see the finished product perform beyond the end user’s expectations. By working with clients, design teams and supply chain Cpac Modular ensure everyone is aligned and projects go to plan.

Everyone is encouraged to share their ideas and experience in an open and safe environment. The firm’s no-compromise approach to Health and Safety throughout the organisation ensures everyone knows their safety is a top priority. Cpac invests heavily in the training and development of the team, recognising and rewarding high performance and supporting its people in every way. Cpac Modular has been honoured to have won the Excellence in Business Award for the past four years, which is a significant marker of the firm’s success. The company has evolved in the last 40 years, responding to client, regulatory and market needs. Cpac has recently designed and developed an in-house permanent modular building system, a long-life solution with applications across many sectors. The firm believes the Cpac Permanent Modular system will be a go-to choice for its clients and challenge the industry.

Cpac’s mantra #partofthepac, is not simply a catchy marketing device for social media – the firm believes all of its colleagues and supply partners truly are part of the Pac!

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Carlow build designs and manufactures all modular systems at its state of the facility in the southeast of ireland for direct supply and installation by market aﬃliates and trade partners. The company is well on course to establish itself as a market leader in the provision of modular building systems for the delivery of large scale residential, commercial & departmental buildings.

for more information:

info@carlowbuild.com

IRE: +353(0) 1 4378831 UK: +44(0) 207 1646706

www.carlowbuild.com

Excellence in Business Innovation Modular Residential Buildings Modular Buildings Award

Born from a need in the construction services market for modular residential building systems, Carlow Build has been operating since 2016 as a leading specialist, off-site manufacturer of light gauge steel modular buildings.

CARLOW BUILD The company is owned and managed by Enda Byrne and MJ Lomax, who are highly experienced in the industry and bring a combined 50 years’ wealth of experience. The company’s core business is the design, manufacture, and installation of modular building structures for both the UK and Irish construction sectors. The company is well on course to establishing itself as a market leader in the provision of modular building systems for the delivery of large-scale residential, commercial and departmental buildings. Enda is a qualified Structural Engineer with 20 years in the construction and consultancy sectors, and MJ, has 25 years in the manufacturing industry. They leverage their deep technical experience, extensive market knowledge and trade connections to produce innovative modular designs within the framework of a lean and efficient production model. They credit this combination for giving them a sustainable competitive advantage. Carlow Build is highly design and innovationled, with a focus on developing a core range of modular solutions to meet the specific needs and standards of water companies and housing developers. Over the last two years, the emphasis has been on new product

design and increased solutions for residential applications. Carlow Build designs and manufactures all modular systems at its state-of-the-art facility in the Southeast of Ireland, for direct supply and installation by market affiliates and trade partners. MJ explains: “Factory production of modular units is easier, more efficient and cost-effective and facilitates higher levels of quality control than that of traditional, onsite construction methods. The production of stock items ensures constant availability.” Carlow Build is highly committed to minimizing the impact of its activities on the environment. In line with this commitment, they implement carbon accounting and management protocols and project-specific carbon budgets can be produced at the customer’s request. ”Carbon accounting is now a major component of bid analysis by our customers,” says Enda. A significant portion of Carlow Build’s resources are dedicated to servicing the requirements of UK and Irish developers and Local Authorities. The company’s aim is to establish itself as a key supply chain partner to large development companies, ensuring its new building system is accepted as an industry norm.

Carlow Build’s system gives the client the assurance of quality and ease of installation due to the innovative design, factory production techniques and simple connection details for site assembly. The design and detailing of the system are absolutely critical to its success on every project. A blend of structural steel design, finite element analysis and 3D building information modelling, is required on all schemes. This high level of inhouse technical skill provides a truly unique customer experience. The company’s research and product development team were successful in obtaining Irish Agreement Approval and more recently achieved SCI/NHBC approval for up-to 5-storey residential construction. Their system has also reached the patent pending stage in both the UK and Ireland. Expanding into larger markets outside Ireland is the logical next step and forms part of Carlow Build’s long-term strategy. Research has confirmed that, similar to the UK and Irish markets, significant amounts of technical expertise, accreditations and quality control are essential for new entrants to the Northern European markets. The future is bright for Carlow Build and modular building systems.

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BIG MAN MODULAR specialist in modular and panelized building. We offer a one stop shop looking after design, planning, with full install and build packages available. We have a dynamic team with a diverse skill set, who are committed to delivering high quality sustainable housing.

BENEFITS Shorter Build Times ‘A’ Rated Homes More Sustainable Homes Construction not Affected by Weather Higher Quality Standard Low running costs Can be Extended easily

087 6176391 023 8893761 info@bigmanmodular.ie

bigmanmodularandtinyhomes

bigmanmodular.ie

Excellence in Construction New Company Specialist Buildings Award

Big Man Modular creates amazing, beautiful, welldesigned living spaces, from modular and panelised homes to home offices and garden studios, in a fraction of the time of a traditional build.

BIG MAN MODULAR Big Man Tiny Homes was founded by JP Simpson in 2018. After working on many different projects around the world and in Ireland, from bespoke cabins to large-scale housing projects, JP came to realise that people want a lot more freedom in their lives without being tied down to massive debts. JP’s Business Partner, Niall Lehane, joined the business in 2021, bringing with him over 25 years of manufacturing leadership. Following this, the firm rebranded to Big Man Modular. Niall strongly believes that quality and efficiency run hand in hand, allowing Big Man Modular to design, manufacture and supply energy-efficient, cost-effective, sustainable homes in timescales unheard of in traditionally built homes. JP explains how the firm works hard to change people’s preconceived ideas about modular homes: “Our main challenge is people’s ideas of what modular/panelised homes are, but once they see the completed homes and talk to existing clients about how happy they are with their home, they soon realise that our SIP (Structural Insulated Panel) build system is far superior to conventional builds.” JP also lamented the lack of understanding and support from the government and banks in relation to planning and mortgages.

The firm supplies units built using SIP Panels. These units require up to 50% less energy to heat and cool than a conventional home due to superior insulation and air tightness (currently surpassing passive house requirements). Unlike most modular companies, Big Man Modular undertakes 100% customised builds tailored to the client’s needs. As a company, Big Man Modular’s main aim is to reduce stress for the client. The firm does this by offering a one-stop shop, looking after everything from design and planning to a complete build and installation. The firm can build off-site in its workshop so the time on site is drastically reduced, minimising stress for the client. Big Man Modular is committed to quality, safety and value for money, offering fully transparent pricing and allowing customers to buy their building at any stage of construction and finish as a self-build if they wish.

“Our staff are the backbone of our business”, says JP, “we employ a dynamic team with a diverse skill set. We aim to create a safe, healthy and environmentally friendly workplace and to foster a good work/life balance for employees.” Big Man Modular won the award for Best Small Business at the West Cork Business and Tourism Awards 2022. JP attributes this to having a small, committed build team invested in the firm’s core values, delivering sustainable, energy-efficient, cost-effective homes. In addition to its work in the private sector, Big Man Modular is looking at entering the growing social housing market. The firm has partnered with MMC Eco Homes in the UK, and with this collaboration, the two firms can now supply the Irish Market with up to 300 houses a year.

The firm takes a collaborative approach, working with the client from initial design and planning to installing a fully furnished new home. The itemised pricing system allows the customer to retain control over their spending.

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WE ARE A TRUSTED ALTERNATIVE AND MAY BE THE MOST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO THE HOUSING CRISIS. With production facilities in Dublin and a new stateof-the-art plant in Longford, AMVIC IRELAND have a proven track record and now has ample capacity in place to meet this ever-growing demand in the market. FACT Amvic ICF means: Build Superior Homes Faster

FACT • Massive shortages of housing, apartments • Massive shortage of manpower, most materials • Massive increases in power, fuel, and energy cost FACT • We are a trusted alternative with 18 years manufacturing in Ireland and Irish owned. • We are already working with a lot of councils, approved housing bodies and some of the biggest construction companies.

• Far less scaffolding which stays clean, less labour • Far less energy and power • No wet trades • No Silos • No downtime • Minimum waste • Fast in the right hands • Simple chasing for conduit • Ready for internal plasterboard slabbing direct to block webbing • Massive saving’s on-site running costs WHY? • Yes, only a teleporter for 30 minutes a day • Less diesel and the driver can do whatever else the site needs for the rest of the day #cleanquietsite #lesslabour

• Safety with Less labour ,machinery and Silos • With all these savings little variations on the site budget. #costcontrol We are the answer to help you Build Superior Homes Faster To date, any program that our AMVIC approved installers have been given, they have superseded it. Try us. Certified up to 18m, 6 stories. With the need for housing so desperate, we are part of the solution. We bring speed, short lead times, no long waiting times on product and in the right hands, with one of our certified installers, nearly any program is possible, 10 to 12 certified installers have regularly completed the equivalent to 5-6 houses a week. Amvic ICF addresses all these issues.

DON’T BE LEFT BEHIND - contact: cillian@amvicireland.com or 087 6097776 www.amvicireland.com WE WILL DELIVER!

AMVIC are a trusted alternative and may be the most effective solution to the housing crisis.

Excellence in Construction for Building Innovation ICF System

AMVIC

Amvic Ireland is an Irish-owned company that has been operating in Ireland for over 18 years. The company has production facilities in Dublin and a new, state-of-the-art plant in Longford that can deliver 3000 - 4500 units a year if required. Amvic Ireland’s ICF system is a very fast and cost-effective construction method for energy-efficient, high-performance homes, and buildings. If Housing for All is to be achieved, it needs a local trusted supply chain, we have ample supply and we are a trusted alternative.

It is used all over Ireland for large-scale housing and apartment developments, one-off housing/passive homes, extensions, healthcare, commercial and industrial units with little to no waiting time, we have seen the equivalent of 6-8 units a week built. No downtime. Its simplifying on-site material handling, one teleporter and no wet trades needed on site.

Amvic have supplied many councils, housing authority all over Ireland. The Amvic ICF system is certified by NSAI IAB and The BBA for buildings up to 6 stories. Perfect for houses, duplex’s, apartments up to 6 floors. For further details contact cillian@amvicireland.com

In the right hand of an approved Amvic Installer. Any program is possible, everything can be pre-ordered, and Amvic want to do more to help, they are a major part of the solution.

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Based in the Midlands ofIreland, we bring over 25 years of experience in property development, carpentry, andjoinery. We provide a unique range of state-of-theart residential log homes, garden log cabins, and glamping huts that are unmatched in terms of quality, attention to detail, and craftsmanship.

With our 5-star status, you can trust that you are making the right choice by choosing Éire Log Cabins for your home or recreational space needs. For more information or to arrange a free consultation, visit:

eirelogcabins.ie

Excellence in Business Innovation Log Homes, Cabins & Glamping Huts

Based in County Offaly, Éire Log Cabins offer a unique range of state-of-the-art residential log homes, garden log cabins and glamping huts and are unmatched in terms of quality, attention to detail and craftsmanship.

ÉIRE LOG CABINS An innovative partnership with over 25 years of experience in carpentry, joinery and building, CEO, Kevin Early and COO Anthony Foy have led Éire Log Cabins to be the fastestgrowing log cabin and timber home company in Ireland. They are en route to becoming the leading supplier of premium residential log cabins, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) homes and modular buildings in Ireland by 2024.. Éire Log Cabins has a unique brand of affordable log houses that are the perfect solution for the Irish climate - giving peace of mind to new homeowners and to those wishing to downsize or retire to a more sustainable log or timber home. Kevin Early believes that one of the aspects that makes the company stand out from the competition is this: “We are Irish tradesmen who understand the Irish climate and market with lots of experience in designing and erecting premium log cabins. “We understand that everyone’s needs are different and that is why we can customise any home to make it suitable for our client´s unique specifications.” One of the challenges of the business is to combat assumptions about living in a log and timber house. Kevin explains: “It is a

common myth that timber, when exposed to the elements, deteriorates quickly. Timber log buildings, which are still in routine use in Europe date back more than 800 years. A well-constructed and properly maintained timber log home should last for generations”. Since wood is the principle construction element, high quality is of paramount importance. Kevin explains: “We use Scandinavian timber, grown furthest north in Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forests, making our timber more durable and sustainable. The specific logs used in construction reduce the risk of warpage and shrinkage by up to 90%.” Éire Log Cabins offer prospective homeowners a housing solution that is environmentally friendly, affordable and far quicker to complete than traditional house construction. Anthony, COO explains: “Wood is not only renewable but also a brilliant natural insulator. During winter a timber log building offers warmer interiors and in summer, the internal temperature remains relatively cool. These natural properties of wood reduce the dependency on high energy-consuming heaters or air conditioners.” So good are the company’s timber log homes at maintaining an even, comfortable

temperature that owners only require a small energy-efficient reverse cycle air conditioner for heating and cooling all year round. In comparison, traditional ‘stick and brick’ houses require costly and often environmentally unfriendly systems to combat temperature fluctuations. Another benefit of an Éire Log Cabins’ timber log home is the unique acoustic properties of wood. It absorbs sound resulting in less noise and echo. In addition, the company installs fully sealed double-glazed European-style windows and solid wood core doors to add to the wood’s naturally superior insulation from outside noise, making life in a timber log home a quiet and peaceful experience for the company’s clients. Anthony points out: “Log cabins are becoming a popular choice for retired couples wanting to downsize without selling their homes. It gives them the option of installing a timber log house in their garden and freeing up their property for their family, or to generate rental income.” Looking to the future, Kevin says the company is excited: “Helping solve the housing crisis, helping new homeowners, and helping families and refugees.”

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DECARBONISING Construction The construction sector is essential for modern society, delivering the buildings we live and work in, the roads and bridges that connect us, and the industrial facilities that produce and distribute our energy and goods. Despite being a crucial sector for the world economy, construction suffers severe criticism from an environmental point of view and from all sides, which is difficult to abate. Within the industry, emissions continue apace, from sourcing and producing materials, the logistics and the construction activities themselves. These activities account for ‘embodied carbon emissions’ – accounting for more than 16% of global CO2 emissions. There is a strong call for decarbonisation of the industry, but the question remains, how to best achieve this? Although some progress has been made, decarbonising the built environment, especially the existing stock of residential

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and commercial buildings, is one of the most significant challenges facing Ireland on its journey to net zero. To reach Ireland's economy wide 2030 interim target of 51% emissions´ reduction by 2030, the built environment needs to reduce its carbon footprint to 4-5 MtCO2e compared to the 2018 baseline of 7.9 MtCO2e. Roadmap to Recovery The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) has launched a roadmap to decarbonise Ireland's construction and built environment sector. The "Building a Zero Carbon Ireland” roadmap was developed by the Irish Green Building Council in close cooperation with over 200 key stakeholders. It sets out a detailed strategy towards a net zero carbonbuilt environment by 2050 and details a series of near-term actions to put the construction industry on a clear path towards this, as well as a range of further, longer-term actions to accelerate the transformation of the built environment.

The roadmap was developed as part of the #BuildingLifeCampaign and will support the work of officials at local, national and EU levels. Similar roadmaps were developed in Croatia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the UK. According to the “Building a Zero Carbon Ireland” report, the construction and built environment account for 37% of Ireland’s carbon emissions, the same as agriculture. This is made up of around 23% operational emissions, associated with the energy we use to heat, cool and light our buildings, with the remaining 14% being accounted for by embodied carbon. Embodied emissions result from quarrying, transportion and manufacturing building materials, in addition to constructing buildings and the necessary infrastructure. Projections to 2030 show the national retrofit programme will lead to a significant

10 Essential Steps to Decarbonise the Construction Industry Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (Global ABC) has published a report that identifies 10 key measures that national, sub-national and local governments need to incorporate to move forward with efforts to decarbonise the building sector. Endorsed by the UN Environment Programme and publicised by the European Construction Industry Federation, the report highlights actions deemed essential to helping all countries lower their carbon emissions. The measures outlined in the report are designed to help governments, local authorities and construction organisations achieve net-zero targets. 1. Establish and implement an ambitious energy code for buildings 2. Support the use of integrated design 3. Promote deep energy renovation 4. Lead by example by decarbonising buildings 5. Use energy information and behaviour change to drive energy efficiency 6. Promote financing for energy efficiency 7. Enable easy access to information on the carbon footprint of materials 8. Develop public procurement policies that incentivise materials with low carbon footprints 9. Integrate nature-based solutions into urban planning, buildings and construction 10. Develop integrated resilience strategies and plans for the built environment

According to the “Building a Zero Carbon Ireland” report, construction and built environment accounts for 37% of Ireland’s carbon emissions, the same as agriculture.

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decrease in emissions from operating buildings. However, new construction outlined in the National Development Plan and the 'Housing for All' policy will likely only negate these savings if embodied emissions are fully addressed. According to Pat Barry, CEO at the Irish Green Building Council, the roadmap details a set of actions to halve our sector emissions by 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2050. “The first thing should be to prioritise what is being built to meet our housing, health, transport, and educational needs, without blowing our carbon budget," he said. "That means better using our existing stock, including vacant and derelict properties, and supporting high-quality, affordable retrofit at scale. It's important to realise that the carbon emissions of a deep retrofit are, on average, a quarter of those of a new build." Mr Barry added that when new buildings are designed and constructed, the focus should no longer be exclusively on energy efficiency. The decarbonisation of the grid will support the transition to Net Zero

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homes in operation, but embodied carbon is locked in as soon as a home is completed and cannot be retrofitted. “All new homes must be highly energy efficient and deliver as per design, but the construction process itself must be low carbon. We must reduce embodied carbon emissions through better design and innovation so that low-carbon construction and materials become the norm. With 400,000 homes to be built over the next decade, we must do it rapidly," explained Mr Barry. The roadmap proposes to regulate embodied carbon emissions in the built environment, as already done in several European countries and to further support affordable, high-quality energy renovations, including phased retrofits. It also promises to encourage the development of low-carbon construction processes and materials, including greater use of bio-based materials such as timber. Ossian Smyth, Minister of State for Public Procurement and the Circular Economy

said that transitioning to circularity in construction is critical if we are to reach our climate targets: "A decarbonised, circular and resource-efficient built environment will not only help achieve our climate objectives but will generate business opportunities and support sustainable economic growth," he said.

The roadmap proposes to regulate embodied carbon emissions in the built environment, as already done in several European countries, and to further support affordable, high-quality energy renovations, including phased retrofits.

Sigma Homes specialises in architecturally designed extensions, renovations and retrofits to client properties. The company prides itself on taking the stress out of building with its team of professionals.

Excellence in Construction House Build & Design Award

SIGMA HOMES Sigma Homes manages each project from the initial enquiry to handover of the futureproofed home. By completing all the necessary work in-house, Sigma reduces the cost of going to separate building professionals, speeding up the project’s progress. According to Office and Sales Manager Eilís Fleming, Sigma Homes is going from strength to strength, and she is delighted to confirm that the company has won Construction Company of the Year several years in a row. “Our demand in business is high, which we are so grateful for. This allows us to take on more business, starting at least one new project every Monday and handing back a new home every Friday.”

“Our social media channels showcase live projects starting on site, every Monday morning, and live project handovers every Friday afternoon. It is a great resource for anybody considering prospective projects all over the country, giving advice, design ideas and features, along with interior inspiration.” Sigma Homes has a growing team of professionals with two talented Senior Architects in-house boasting international and national portfolios. In addition, the company recently hired an experienced Interior Architect, increasing its services and offerings, and hired more personnel for the costing team to help control costs for both the company and the client.

Eilís acknowledges that Sigma Homes has overcome significant challenges and obstacles, with the Covid pandemic and the Russian/Ukrainian war having major consequences for the industry. Thankfully she says: “Our reputation precedes us, giving prospective clients the confidence they need to consider Sigma Homes for their project. Ensuring we never cut corners at any time helped our team to be consistently responsible with our client’s budgets and expectations. “Sigma Homes is a business like no other. As well as our straightforward business model, with a step-by-step approach to our projects, we also boast an invaluable aftercare service. We hand back our homes with a 10-year

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warranty and a 20-year flat roofing warranty. This gives clients the confidence they need when considering a life-changing project. “The customer is at the forefront of everything we do,” Eilís adds. “We work closely with clients to design each home creatively and intuitively, focusing on maximizing natural light, increasing energy efficiency and improving the internal layout.” Looking at the huge demand in business Eilís feels that it is evident that with the lack of affordable and/or suitable housing on the market to buy, people have decided to adapt and upgrade their current property rather than buying. “This has been very successful for our clients, especially those with children or who do not work from home,” she notes. “Many clients we work with love their area, their children are happy in their current school, and it is a suitable commuting distance to work. If they complete a build with us at Sigma Homes, they know we will work with them to design specifically to their needs.”

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Happy employees are critical to the company and the management team does everything possible to ensure that colleagues are happy and fulfilled in their roles. “We offer a competitive package when hiring staff and have recently introduced a Sigma Sports and Social Group,” Eilís explains. The sports group offers free exercise classes and complimentary talks with professionals on everything from injuries to mental health. In addition, the company holds two key social events as a thank you to the team, a popular Summer BBQ and the Christmas party. Taking staff wellness to the next level, Sigma took steps last year to reduce working hours, with an earlier finish each Friday and a special lunchtime close on bank holiday Fridays to extend long weekends and contribute to a healthy work-life balance for staff members. In closing, Eilís says many exciting developments are coming up soon, so stay tuned to social media channels and follow this passionate team on LinkedIn for more.

“Sigma Homes is a business like no other. As well as our straightforward business model, with a step-by-step approach to our projects,we also boast an invaluable aftercare service. We hand back our homes with a 10-yearwarranty and a 20year flat roofing warranty. This gives clients the confidence they need when considering a life-changing project. The customer is at the forefront of everything we do.”

your design and build team

Designed and built for the way you live

Build. Grow. Change.

Design Tailored To You

Want to discuss your project ? We love to listen and we are eagerly waiting to talk to you regarding your project. Get in touch with us if you have any queries and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Visit us at

Unit A4, Donnybrook Commercial Centre Douglas, Cork

W: sigmahomes.ie E: info@sigmahomes.ie P: 021 4365866

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Stress-Free Planning

McGAHON S U R V E YO R S Chartered Quantity Surveyors Building Cost and Management Consultants

Tried and Trusted for over 45 years

Block 1, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk Co. Louth, Ireland

Tel: 042 933 1192

6 St. Colman’s Park, Newry Co. Down BT34 2BX N. Ireland

Tel: +44(0)28 3083 3074 e-mail: info@mcgahonsurveyors.com www.mcgahonsurveyors.com

McGahon Surveyors proudly marks its 46th year in business by being awarded Ireland’s Best Quantity Surveyors Company of the Year Award, 2023.

Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Quantity Surveyor of the Year

McGAHON SURVEYORS MGS is one of Ireland’s leading professional quantity surveying practices, entrusted to oversee and manage a large portion of the Government’s capital spend on various public-funded construction projects across Ireland, including housing, education and health projects, amongst many others. MGS also enjoys the confidence of various private clients, who deliver many large-scale projects nationwide. McGahon Surveyors has a strong team of thirty members and continues to successfully attract the best people, with this philosophy being at the heart of the firm’s success. The MGS team brings together decades of expertise, experience, unwavering energy, and commitment that ensures that valued clients always receive top-notch service every time. During the firm’s gradual expansion, MGS has proudly maintained its motto: “Large enough to deliver any construction project, but small enough to ensure that you (and your project) matter.” Each of MGS’ dedicated teams are prepared to steer your

project to completion while achieving the optimum value. McGahon Surveyors’ vast experience with public sector employers has always been rewarded with prominent quantity surveying appointments, which brings a high degree of satisfaction and excitement to the MGS staff. “These new appointments are off the back of the staff’s hard work and diligence on previous projects,” says Joe Beggs, MGS’s Managing Director. “Our core staff have been an integral part of the company for many years, a testament to our ‘employee first’ culture. This is essential in today’s working environment, whereby a happy workforce attracts the top talent and ultimately results in a satisfied client base and a thriving business!” When asked about the firm’s current key projects, Joe responds, “We have been appointed to The Land Development Agency’s QS Framework, which is both rewarding and exciting, as all their housing projects are large scale. We are currently at the pre-planning stage on a 1,100+ unit

scheme in Cherry Orchard Dublin, which will be delivered across multiple phases in the coming years. “This project and appointments on multiple educational campus projects for the Department of Education throughout Ireland identify MGS’s place within the Irish construction industry. This proves that Irish-borne and based SMEs when correctly structured, can deliver excellent service on our industry’s largest projects. Having 1,000+ international QS staff is of no great benefit in delivering a hundred houses in Tralee.” Joe concluded that his hope for the future is that McGahon Surveyors continues to grow and develop. “We are looking forward to continued success, and we would like to thank our valued clients and our colleagues within the industry who have shared and added to our experience and success over the past 46 years, particularly those that have supported us since the financial crisis of 2008 – Go raibh míle maith agat.”

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The Project The National Screening Services (NSS) commissioned this project in conjunction with the Coombe Women’s and Infant University Hospital and the HSE to develop an optimised pathology department and National Centre of Excellence for Screening Services located on the Coombe Hospital Campus. Works included: • Constructing a new four-storey laboratory building within the existing Coombe site with a rooftop plant. • Internal renovations to the existing laboratory building within the existing Coombe site (ongoing) and two rear extensions to the existing laboratory building to include a new link, office and store with all associated site works. • The re-alignment of the existing car park and associated site development works and services at the Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital, Cork Street, Dublin 8. Words were executed on a live Healthcare campus. Multiple phases were required to deliver the works while maintaining high levels of patient, care, health and safety and dignity.

Coombe Women’s and Infant University Hospital. Optimised pathology department and National Centre of Excellence for Screening Services.

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McGAHON SURVEYORS

Coady Architects is an award winning, design-driven practice specialising in workplace, residential and student accommodation, healthcare and education buildings. Services include expertise in architecture, master planning, interior design, conservation, building information modelling (BIM) and sustainable design.

Excellence in Building Projects Energy Support Services Award Deep Retrofit Social Housing

COADY ARCHITECTS With over 30 years in practice, Coady Architects provides quality design and delivers exciting, robust buildings and interiors for forward-thinking clients. The company’s head office is in Ranelagh, Dublin, with a regional office in Galway. In 1987 Jim Coady founded Jim Coady and Associates, primarily serving public clients in the education, health and residential sectors. Jim brought a keen interest to optimising passive energy efficiency and integral landscape design to the practice’s work. The practice grew steadily over the next 14 years to a team of about 20 architects, architectural technologists and support staff. In 2001 the practice reformed as Coady Partnership Architects, with Anne Fletcher and Mark McCann joining Jim as partners. It grew to a team of 35 in 2008 when Tomás Sexton was appointed a director in 2008.

In 2015, the practice was rebranded to Coady Architects and two years later, Jim Coady retired. A further director, Donal O’Donohue, was added to the management team in 2016 before the retirement of Anne Fletcher in December 2020. “The changes were largely about maintaining continuity,” explains Tomás Sexton. “In 2021 we appointed four associate directors to strengthen the management team. We are recognising the calibre and ability of those individuals but also adding further strength to our management team, which was necessary due to the strong growth of the practice. We now have almost 70 staff with specialists across many fields to support our project teams. “The construction industry is very cyclical, even within sectors within the industry. We have countered this by our spread of sectors and blending our client base between public and private sectors. We

also have an international reach through our membership of a European association of architectural practices, ‘Perspective’. Recently we designed and delivered school projects across eight school campuses with our Belgian partner.” Green Agenda Coady Architects was one of the earlier converts to the green agenda, and founder Jim Coady was a committed advocate of sustainable design. This has ensured the firm’s work has strong design principles and the team remains enthusiastic and committed to its work. Since the practice’s inception, public sector housing and urban regeneration have been key areas of Coady Architects’ work. Two recent award-winning projects have included deep retrofit upgrades of Dublin inner city public housing buildings for two approved housing bodies. These projects illustrate

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how existing buildings can be reimagined and repurposed for modern living and be a catalyst for community regeneration. The redevelopment of Ellis Court on Benburb Street, Dublin, involves the renovation, extension and deep retrofit of an existing 1880s social housing development for Tuath Housing Association. The development is part of the first social housing scheme produced by Dublin Corporation. The site contains a four-storey red brick apartment building and three red brick terraced houses. In addition, Coady is currently working on the Opera site in Limerick, which entails the redevelopment and regeneration of an entire block in the heart of the city. The

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site had lain idle for ten plus years after plans for a retail mall collapsed during the fiscal crisis. Limerick City and County Council subsequently purchased the site for development under the Limerick 2030 plan, and it will feature some 45,000 square meters of mixed-use development, including office buildings, a new city library, residential units, food and beverage and cultural facilities. Coady carried out the master planning for the site as part of an Aecom lead interdisciplinary team and completed the design of the first phase of development involving an office building over a basement across the entire site, in partnership with Woods Bagot Architects, which is currently under construction.

The practice continues to have a strong portfolio of public work across each of its sectors: Residential, Education, Health and Workplace. Coady values this variety and spread of work, believing it gives strength and depth to ensure business resilience into the future.

The 3.7-acre ‘Opera Site’ on Patrick Street will be transformed into c. 540,000 sq. ft. of office and retail space.

Ellis Court, Dublin; Kilbride Court Development; Children’s Health Ireland, Tallaght University Hospital; Naas Community College.

36 years of architectural design, urban design and Education, Residential, Health, Workplace & Masterplanning Dublin | Galway | 01 497 6766 | admin@coady.ie | www.coady.ie

Downey is a vibrant and progressive multi-disciplinary practice of Chartered Town Planners, Registered RIAI Architects, and skilled Project Managers. The Urban Planning & Development consultancy specialises in overseeing projects from inception to completion, with a collective ethos of perfecting the ‘Art of Planning & Design’.

Excellence in Construction Public Sector Planning & Architecture Services Support Award

DOWNEY The practice offers extensive coverage over planning procurement and development services throughout Ireland & the UK. The nature of its dynamic service has been cultivated through comprehensive experience in the Planning, Architectural, and Construction industries and by virtue of building robust client relationships Steering the ship is John Downey BA, MRUP, MBA, Dip. Law (Kings Inns) MRTPI MIPI, a chartered town planner with over 25 years’ experience in planning and development within both the private and public sectors. John is a specialist in planning applications, inter alia, planning procedures, and procuring all planning applications through the various planning processes including S.34 applications, SHD (Strategic Housing Development) applications and the new LRD process. The firm has lodged over 10,000

units in recent years and has around 850 units currently being constructed on-site. The firm also carries out various analytic / GIS research, including Housing Core Strategies for Local Authorities. Johns’ diverse skill set extends way beyond day-to-day planning experience. He has been heavily involved in the profession with advisory roles to the Government, including advising The Oireachtas (2014) and The Department of Finance (2015/20). He was part of the Advisory Group for the National Planning Framework (2017) and was on the expert panel for formulating the Design Standards for New Apartments – Guidelines for Planning Authorities (March 2018). John is an outgoing Board Member of the ECTPCEU (European Council of Spatial Planners) and was a former Chair of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Ireland, in addition

to being the first Irish delegate elected as a corporate member of the General Assembly of the Royal Town Planning Institute in London. When asked about the outstanding achievements of his practice and its exemplary reputation in the industry, John simply says, “Our extensive skill set with decades of experience ensures that our clients, both in the public and private sectors, benefit from optimum success rates of planning procurement and development”. In recognition of these achievements, Downey has been awarded the Public Sector Magazine Excellence in Construction Service Support Award 2023 for its contribution to the industry.

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ARCHITECTURE THAT TRANSFORMS CITIES AND BUILDS COMMUNITIES

www.cwoarchitects.ie

Excellence in Business Innovation Architecture Firm of the Year

As one of Ireland’s busiest and most highly regarded firms, C+W O’Brien Architects has delivered design-driven architectural solutions with a commercial edge for 25 years.

C+W O’BRIEN ARCHITECTS Principal Architect and Managing Director Arthur O’Brien has gained a reputation for excellence working in London and Dublin. From an early age, architecture was in his blood, he recalls, “My father was a small builder based in Tullamore and I spent my childhood holidays doing small jobs around the sites and got an early engagement with construction. Being raised in the countryside, we didn’t have playgrounds, so we would have spent a lot of time making treehouses and huts in the woods – all quite creative and probably quite formative.” He remembers that the architect visiting his father’s building sites was viewed as a ‘somebody’ and he wanted to be regarded that way too. “I liked how they would sketch their ideas and develop creative solutions. I was by no means an artist as a child, but I liked to make things and build things,” he explains. Arthur went on to complete his Master’s in Architecture (M. Arch) at the University of Greenwich and so began his successful career in the field. Other than sleek, smart, sustainable designs that transform the surroundings and build communities, Arthur believes that a key

ingredient of the firm’s enviable reputation is his team’s highly professional service, employing a straightforward methodology that engages clients throughout the design process. Arthur expands on his philosophy: “Bringing your community with you and celebrating that achievement with them – family, colleagues, clients – is important.” He remarks further on his team’s collaborative approach, saying, “We pride ourselves on an honest, transparent, inclusive and accountable culture, placing our clients at the heart of the design team, encouraging collaboration to develop innovative solutions.” Arthur is rightly proud of his expert design team, saying, “They examine the brief and look for efficiencies while developing buildings that create a positive impact.” In addition to the company’s architectural talent, Arthur employs an in-house team of graphic designers and 3D animators who can accurately convey the architect’s vision to the client. As with all other industries, the construction sector has its challenges in the current economic environment, but Arthur’s company sees opportunity in the situation. Challenges such as a struggling housing market and labor scarcity haven’t decreased the need for new

homes and offices. C+W O’Brien champions the benefits of modular construction methods, which have seen interest and investment soar over the last year. The ability to fast-track construction projects and use fewer on-site manhours is an attractive proposition to developers. “When properly considered and designed modular construction can be a faster and more efficient way to deliver construction projects, we are positioned at the forefront of modular design in Ireland,” Arthur explains. “We are eager to increase this type of construction to avail of the many benefits that can help maximise the potential of a development site by delivering the most appropriate product and construction methods.” C+W O’Brien has been involved with numerous and varied projects, ranging from residential to student housing, office and commercial, hotels to industrial and even film studios. The future looks bright for Arthur and his team,. He closes by saying: “As a young architect, I never could have hoped that I would be where I am now, that I would have the people around me that I have around me now, that the work we are doing is this exciting.”

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A REPUTATION BUILT ON EXPERIENCE

BUILDING SURVEYING HEALTH & SAFETY STATUTORY COMPLIANCE PROJECT CONSULTANCY

www.olmconsultancy.ie

Excellence in Construction Government Projects Consultancy Partnerships

OLM Consultancy is a well-established independent and privately owned building consultancy firm offering expert professional advice throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom to both the public and private sectors on existing building stock, new build developments and refurbishment projects.

OLM CONSULTANCY With its origins dating back to 1993, OLM Consultancy works across various sectors in the construction and property industry. Its business is split into a number of service areas, including building surveying, statutory compliance, health & safety and project consultancy. From small and humble beginnings, the firm has worked through challenging times over the last 30 years. Embracing innovation and adapting to change, OLM has experienced steady growth and currently employs 15 staff, including two consultant directors. “In recent years, the main challenge to our business was continuing to trade strongly throughout the recession, followed by the global COVID pandemic,” explains Managing Director Brendan McGing, ‘’and the resilience and dedication of our staff, coupled with the strong support from our clients, are the main reasons we succeeded and overcame every hurdle’’. “Our success at ensuring the business remains abreast of current market developments is down to our continual observance of the marketplace, identifying and adapting to changes that impact the business. Significant emphasis is placed on our commitment to research, structured staff training and continued investment in IT and management systems to ensure that we are not only current, but striving to be at the forefront, while maintaining high-quality standards,’’ Brendan adds.

OLM Consultancy employs highly and appropriately qualified staff, an essential prerequisite to ensuring the business remains competitive in an ever-changing marketplace. The team includes Chartered and Registered Building Surveyors, Chartered Health & Safety Consultants and Chartered Project Management Surveyors, all holding appropriate membership of the relevant professional institutions. “Our extensive technical expertise, the outcome of many years’ experience working in a broad range of sectors, differentiates us from our competitors,” explains Brendan, ‘’and this is evident from the wide range of projects we have successfully delivered on various building types, including buildings of historic and special interest.’’ “We are driven by a strong commitment to client care and delivering a quality service. The extent of repeat business we enjoy from our existing client base is a testament to our success in honouring these commitments,” Brendan points out. Recognised in the industry for a diligent approach and strong work ethic, OLM Consultancy relies on a reputation built on a wealth of experience gained over many years and on long-standing client partnerships, built on trust.

contractors, professional services and business advisory firms and central and local government agencies, with referrals also coming from design team professionals, solicitors, general practice surveyors, and asset, or property, management professionals. With such a broad and diverse client base, a priority focus for the management team is that of ensuring they correctly identify and satisfy the needs of all clients. This is accomplished by regularly engaging with each client, then sharing that information with staff members. Brendan stresses that high calibre staff are vital to the company’s success and each staff member has a bespoke career plan identifying their education and training needs. Regular individual meetings ensure that each plan progresses and that career aspirations are met. Social events are also a key feature within the firm to augment relationships, to motivate and to engender bonding between staff members. With a positive outlook and being firmly focused on the future, OLM Consultancy’s main aim is to consolidate and expand on its already notable success in the marketplace.

The company’s clients, both Irish and international, include financial investment firms, funding institutions, developers,

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Client satisfaction is the keystone on which our business is built & we have successfully completed projects from minor works to multimillion euro projects. We have built long standing repeat client relationships, & successful referrals based on our consistently high customer satisfaction.

Our projects span residential and commercial, from renovations through to new build. We have a strong team who are enthusiastic, hard-working and dedicated to each project. It is the strength and experience of this team, and working closely with our clients that makes each project a success.

We invest in our staff training plan, to ensure relevant certiﬁcations are maintained and that we stay current with the latest construction techniques, and materials advances and regulations.

McDonagh Construction Ltd, 10 Emerson Avenue, Salthill, Galway. T +353 (0) 91 522 803 M Hughie +353 (0) 86 2428772 M Marie +353 (0) 87 9290406

www.mcdonaghconstruction.com

Excellence in Construction Commercial & Sustainable Building Building a Better Galway

McDonagh Construction Ltd is a well-established general building and roofing company operating in Galway City and County. With a proven track record of nearly three decades, Managing Director, Hughie McDonagh, cites client satisfaction as the main reason for the company’s success.

MCDONAGH CONSTRUCTION Established in 1991 by the late Joe McDonagh and his son Hughie, McDonagh Construction Limited has developed an enviable reputation for reliability and quality of work in its catchment area and beyond. Based in Salthill, Galway, the company operates in both the commercial and private sectors and delivers efficient, cost-effective, high-quality projects on time and within budget. Years of experience in the construction industry have given McDonagh Construction an acute understanding of the importance of meeting its client’s needs, no matter the size or scale of the project. Client satisfaction is the keystone on which the McDonagh Construction business is built, and the company has successfully completed projects from minor works to multimillion-euro projects. The company’s projects span residential and commercial, from renovations to new builds. With a solid and enthusiastic team

dedicated to each project, the commitment to working closely with clients makes each project a success. A CIF and CIRI registered member, McDonagh Construction counts the Office of Public Works amongst its list of satisfied clients with more than 25 years working with them. “We carry out a lot of refurbishment work on behalf of the OPW,” Hughie revealed, as well as working with major clients including AXA Insurance, NUIG and GMIT, Conor Slack of Tribe Architects and Ruairc O’Tuairisg and Associates Engineers Galway. The company strives to ensure all personnel and sub-contractors have the appropriate experience, training, expertise and up-todate equipment to perform their duties to the highest standards.” McDonagh Construction operates a strict ‘safety first’ policy at all times on-site and is proud of its exemplary health and safety record.

Having met the challenges of the Covid 19 pandemic, the company continues to thrive and expand. “Thankfully, we’re busy enough at the moment,” Hughie adds. “We are growing again after the recession and Covid 19 lockdown. We overcame these obstacles, and thanks to our good reputation and solid client base, we have built up our numbers again. We are now at the stage where we are getting into bigger work again, and we look forward to a positive 2023.” From concept ideas to planning to construction works, McDonagh Construction is a company that can be trusted to assist clients at every stage of each project. No job is considered too small, and the team is happy to help in any way possible. If it’s high-quality workmanship, commitment and value for money you are looking for, don’t hesitate to give Hughie a call on 0862428772. McDonagh Construction Ltd has the experience and skills to undertake a wide variety of projects.

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CATHAL GLYNN CONSTRUCTION LTD.

Established in Limerick in 1975 Cathal Glynn Construction is a family-owned company with over three decades of building experience and a reputation for the highest level of quality construction.

ATHAL GLYNN

Domestic CONSTRUCTION LTD. • Commercial • Retail

New Build • Extensions • Renovations • Ground Works • General building works A high quality ﬁnish, delivered by skilled tradespeople at competitive rates Contact Cathal Glynn Construction on: 085 7022021 • cathal@cgcconstruction.ie

www.cgcconstruction.ie

Cathal Glynn Construction (CGC) is founded on over thirty years of experience in the building industry. Set up under Pat Glynn Construction in 1975, the business quickly gained a reputation for a high-quality finish and a personal approach.

Excellence in Construction, New Builds Extensions, Renovations & Groundworks Midwest Region

CGC CONSTRUCTION Specialising in modern construction methods for building new builds, extensions, renovations, commercial and retail sectors, Cathal Glynn Construction is committed to delivering a high-quality build in a timely manner. The company utilises experienced tradespeople and project management techniques proven in the delivery of topquality construction. The company has enjoyed steady growth over the years in terms of size and reputation. Current Managing Director Cathal joined in 1997, working his way up as an apprentice, where he mastered all aspects of the trade. In that time Cathal has seen many positive changes in the industry but nothing beats a personal one-to-one, hand- on approach, as he explains: “Being proactive in giving customers what they need is very important to us. We listen to what our customers want and we aim to go above and beyond these expectations. The construction industry is moving faster now than ever before. If you don’t pay attention to this, you will be left behind.”

In the last ten years, the company has doubled its workforce several times and keeps improving on quality and training as it continues its expansion trajectory. One issue that has been a challenge is the availability of quality staff as the industry embraces new and existing construction methods. Cathal explains: “It is of utmost importance that we employ and retain staff of the highest caliber. All our staff are treated equally and are given the freedom to excel in and develop their own set of skills. We have always believed in finding the correct solutions to the challenges we face, and we are lucky that our reputation speaks volumes when it comes to attracting new talent to our team.” Cathal feels the secret to the company’s success is its attention to client needs and good old-fashioned reliability. “Our clients have chosen us for many different reasons, but they all say consistently that we turn up when we say we will, our team and foremen are easy to communicate with and all phone calls are returned. We adhere to our timelines religiously and deliver a high-quality product

every time. From concept to completion, we are there every step of the way, and all our work complies with the highest industry regulations.” CGC Construction is dedicated to customer satisfaction in all areas including honest pricing, meeting deadlines, attention to detail and professionalism. Superior workmanship, value-for-money and a commitment to working closely with clients are the hallmarks of this family firm. “Listening to customers and acting on what we are told is paramount to achieving a successful project,” Cathal adds. While the company has a reputation for homebuilding, it enjoys working in new areas that expand its knowledge and reach in the industry. Currently there are several conservation projects and some interesting commercial projects in progress. Closing Cathal says that he has learned many lessons over the years but the one that stands out from them all is that consistent hard work pays off. “You must commit to delivering the best possible product and commit to seeing it through.”

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enerveo.ie

Enerveo Ireland is part of the Enerveo Group, which provides a wide range of services including electrical, EV infrastructure installation, high voltage and test and inspection services across the UK and Ireland. Enerveo is focused on helping businesses achieve their net carbon zero targets. Across the UK and Ireland, Enerveo manages over one million street lights.

Excellence in Public Sector Lighting Solutions Support Services Award

ENERVEO IRELAND Enerveo Ireland delivers electrical services such as public lighting, maintenance, sports lighting and renewables - including solar PV, wind farms, battery storage, pedestrian beacons, air quality monitoring, public EV charging, lamp post EV charging, and remote connectivity. With a staff of over 120 personnel, Enerveo Ireland has a turnover in the region of €20M per annum, maintaining over 250,000 lighting assets across Ireland. Over the past two years the company has rebranded from SSE Airtricity Utility Solutions to Enerveo Ltd. The rise in material rates in the same period has put increased pressure on existing contracts. However, the firm has worked hard with its supply chain and clients to ensure minimal disruption to services while works were carried out. Keen to remain current in an ever-changing marketplace, Enerveo Ireland has diversified the services it provides. Director Noel

Cummins explains: “We align ourselves with our customers’ ambitions, such as reaching net carbon zero targets. Examples of this would be our installations of EV charging infrastructure, battery storage, and largescale public lighting upgrade projects. “Our work is underpinned by strong commitment, not just to our customers and partners, but also to safety, and we are proud to have one of the best safety records in the industry. If it’s not safe, we don’t do it. We ensure everyone goes home safely. Our safety track record is industry-leading, evidenced by seven successive RoSPA Gold Awards and over 20 years of zero lost time injuries (LTIs) in our Process Industries division. I believe this makes us stand out from the crowd.” Enervo Ireland is a multi-disciplinary contracting business offering full end-toend solutions with the skills and expertise to deliver simple as well as complex projects across several service lines. No matter the

size of the organisation, the company works collaboratively with customers and partners to solve some of their most pressing issues. The firm has a robust customer service philosophy, which includes openness to innovation and a flexible approach to projects, ensuring it is well-placed to deliver all customers’ objectives. Through its network of depots across Ireland, Enerveo Ireland delivers local services on a national scale. Along with this Public Sector Award for Excellence in Public Sector lighting support services, Everveo Ireland was named Top Contractor by Highway Electrical Yearbook for two years in a row (2021-2022). Noel sums up the firm’s success saying: “We live in a competitive world, and we must keep looking ahead and reinventing ourselves, or in the words of the great goalkeeper, Peter Shilton, ´if you are standing still, you are going backwards´.”

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Excellence in Business Innovation Joinery Works Specialists

Woodfit Acoustics is the world’s foremost provider of wooden acoustic panelling, with a client base that spans the globe. The firm combines expertise across acoustical engineering and design with world-class manufacturing facilities. With over 40 years of experience delivering on highprofile projects worldwide, Woodfit has earned a reputation for the highest levels of skill and craftsmanship.

WOODFIT Woodfit works with the same passion today as when it opened its doors in 1979. Developing from a manufacturer of bespoke kitchen cabinets to a world-renowned specialist fabricator, the firm’s progression and success over the years are largely down to the three pillars on which the business was built, quality, dependability and innovation. As a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Woodfit had to adapt how it operated to manage working while dealing with an ongoing global pandemic. This was a challenge for Woodfit and the industry as a whole. The firm implemented a new research facility to broaden its range of acoustic panelling and invested heavily in new equipment and the training of its workforce. The firm reshaped its workforce by allowing some staff members to work from home and use this time to invest in training and innovation. “Lockdown gave us time that we may not have had to really invest in our training and innovation, says Managing Director Anthony Denby. “Now, even though the lockdown

has ended, we continue to take time to ensure that our workforce and practices are to the highest standard. We are constantly investing in research and development of new products and ways of manufacturing to keep ahead of the competition and changing world. “The difference between us and our competitors comes down to the trust that has been earned from our clients through the years by producing quality work time and time again. They know they can trust us and we will do the job right. When it comes to the manufacturing side, there are no other companies in Ireland manufacturing wooden acoustic panels. The fact that we can provide a turnkey package also sets us apart from the competition. There aren’t many other specialist fabricators in Ireland producing the same quality, dependability, and innovation.“ Woodfit has a strong customer service philosophy. Whether working on the most complex structures or the finest of details,

the firm guarantees exceptional quality every time and maintains effective communication from start to finish. Woodfit’s staff are one of the primary keys to the firm’s success. “All our staff are very important to us, says Anthony. “We retain our team by learning something new and finding innovative solutions and projects to keep our staff interested and motivated. “Our plan for the coming years is to continue to apply our considerable experience and expertise in creating spaces that sound as good as they look. We have great loyalty and repeat business from clients because of our attention to detail and the quality of our products. We are involved in many domestic projects, including a large project at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin. Finally, we are negotiating a deal with a large opera house in Malaysia which would be an exciting project for us to take on going forward.”

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All-in-one green solution

Monobloc

9 City East Business Park, Ballybrit, Co Galway. T: 091-380 038 Peamount Business Centre, Newcastle, Co Dublin. T: 01-610 9153 Unit 8, Cherrywood Business Park, Little Island, Co Cork. T: 021 – 441 4010.

www.unithermhs.ie

Email: info@unithermhs.ie

Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award Ireland’s Top Heating Design Team

Unitherm Heating Systems was established in 2004 to design, supply and commission residential and commercial fully-engineered heating system solutions using renewable technologies. With continually changing technologies, Unitherm has remained at the forefront in introducing the most up-to-date innovative products and solutions, including heat pumps, underfloor heating, aluminium radiators, mechanical ventilation systems and district heating systems.

UNITHERM Unitherm has grown considerably over the last eighteen years and now boasts four locations, Dublin, Galway, Cork and Exeter in the UK, with 58 staff, including 28 fully qualified engineers for designing systems and offering technical support to installers. The firm also provides installer training and upskilling from three training academies. Heretofore, Unitherm has predominantly focused on the new-build market and in 2022, became an approved “One Stop Shop” for commercial and residential retrofit projects. The company has invested and is committed to delivering the actions set out in the Climate Action Plan by accessing grants from the SEAI Community Energy Grant Scheme. Unitherm has partnered with DEACRB and started working on its first community scheme (BEC 1209). The Community Energy Grant Scheme provides funding for retrofit projects in the public, private, domestic and commercial sectors. This scheme has 20

commercial and 11 domestic retrofits and promises to abate 518 tonnes of CO2. Unitherm and DEACRB can offer a turnkey, fully designed heat pump and ventilation system specific to the required application and an SEAI One Stop Shop grant facilitation package for commercial or residential retrofits. For commercial projects, an energy audit must be obtained before the engineering calculations and costings are submitted as part of a group application to the SEAI. Grant funding is available of up to 30% for commercial fabric and renewable heating upgrades and this is proving to be a game changer. For residential projects, a BER assessment must be carried out before a proposed pathway specification document, complete with costings, is produced. Grant values can then be accessed under the SEAI Grant Scheme. Unitherm provides a complete grant application and coordination service, including compliance verification, quality

assurance, inspections, site visits, and liaising with contractors and clients. The SEAI grants are paid retrospectively for works passing inspections. Unitherm’s Managing Director, Declan Kissane, told Public Sector Magazine, “We are delighted and honoured to win the Excellence in Business Award as Ireland’s Top Heating Design Team in consecutive years. It reflects the dedication and commitment of all our staff to design and promote systems that offer a sustainable living environment using efficient and renewable energy sources. We intend to continue raising the bar regarding properly designed systems, which are more important to us than the quick sale. The Government Climate Action Plan is extremely ambitious but important for all of us, and we are pleased to continue playing our part in trying to achieve the targets

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MJS MJS CIVIL ENGINEERING

CIVIL ENGINEERING

With over 25 years of experience, MJS Civil Engineering is an indigenous Irish firm specialising in Civil Engineering Contracting. We have a proven track record in; • Storm Water • Sewage Management • Reservoir Building • General Civil Works

Kilday Farm, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow

M: (087) 2908868 T: (01) 2011895 F: (01) 2011896 E: michael@mjscivilengineering.ie

MJS Civil Engineering Ltd is an industry-leading contractor boasting over 35 years of experience and offering a wealth of knowledge in its field. The firm was established in 1986 in the UK and moved to Ireland in 1999.

Excellence in Construction Civil Engineering Firm of the Year

MJS CIVIL ENGINEERING MJS is a family-owned business to which each project is given personal attention. The firm carries out civil engineering projects mainly for the public sector specialising in complex works that require high technical or logistical knowledge and resources. MJS’s projects include works in the water industry ranging from water tower refurbishment, reservoir construction and commissioning large valve replacement. The firm has also worked on waste water treatment plant construction and commissioning of deep pipelines, involving supply issues to large communities’ waste water. Other projects have included public realm parks on tightly restricted sites, flood defence works, coastal erosion protection works, harbour and estuary dredging works with disposal at sea, road maintenance works and large RC contracts, many with complex traffic management arrangements. MJS has grown organically and retained

a core staff with a wealth of knowledge and experience in every aspect of civil engineering relevant to the needs of modern society and the economy. MJS has overcome several obstacles over the years including supply line issues, shortages of skilled labour, economic downturns and procurement protocol regulations. Despite these challenges, the firm remains one of the top players in the sector; as Director Michael Storan explains: “We believe that there are no risks or challenges that we as civil engineers cannot overcome. We also believe that civil engineering is at the core of at the core of the development of a modern economy, and that civil engineering has had a crucial role in the evolution of many things we now take for granted. We relish the fact that we are now an active player in this exciting and progressive industry.

He continues: “We see ourselves as part of a vibrant group of contractors who deliver a quality product and value for money for our clients. Our projects are delivered to the highest standard in a safe environment and we always strive to improve our performance and remain vigilant in our pursuit of excellence. Our philosophy is to create a safe and happy environment for our workforce to progress in a career they are proud to partake in. This reflects in a wholesome attitude to customer service and needs.” Michael’s greatest lesson in business is that “you must always deliver a quality product in a safe environment and that pride in the work reflects both in a happy and fulfilled workforce and a client whose needs are met or surpassed”.

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Electrical Services Cosgrove Electrical Services are an award-winning electrical engineering practice that has delivered electrical installation projects across the greater Dublin area for 23 years. Services include: Medium Voltage / Low Voltage Data Installations Life Safety Systems Lighting Security installation services throughout the greater Dublin area

Cosgrove Electrical Services Ltd Unit 220 Block C Blanchardstown Corporate Park Dublin 15 Tel. 01 885 5088 Mob. 087 0000 380 www.cosgroveelectrical.ie

Cosgrove Electrical is an Electrical Engineering Services Company providing high standards in residential and commercial installation throughout the greater Dublin region. The firm specialises in a wide range of electrical engineering projects and assists clients with the delivery of flagship developments with quality and experience provided on every project.

Excellence in Electrical Services Electrical Engineering Firm of the Year

COSGROVE ELECTRICAL Cosgrove Electrical’s goal is to maintain a high standard of service and an excellent customer satisfaction rate. The firm has a steady growth rate and is very market aware, aiming to maximise quality rather than volume. Operations Manager David O’Donoghue says, “Our company is defined by the people we work with. Our growth is organic, and we develop strong delivery teams with leadership, collaboration, and good project management at the core of our service. We have maintained a high staff retention rate and invest in our employees to remove staffing risks and build consistently successful project teams that overcome project challenges through early engagement and good open communication. The industry is evolving not only in technological advancements but also in processes and procedures. We have embraced new practices to ensure work patterns are efficient and create effective use of time. The world is fast moving, so our teams are equipped with the latest technology to ensure their day is fruitful and productive while maintaining a good life balance.” For Cosgrove Electrical, the project range has jumped from standard build types to fast-track construction to hyper-scale mixeduse developments where a key focus is in the

project’s planning stage. The firm has invested in master’s level qualified energy managers and engineers to forensically review work packages to ensure smooth project delivery during installation, where delays are most prevalent. This helps clients deliver on their commitments. Cosgrove Electrical brings to the project experience that can deliver. This is achieved by providing a team that understands not only the electrical service element but a clear understanding of the building requirements for the smooth completion of prestigious projects. The firm offers efficiencies to the project programme by utilizing modern construction methods such as lean stock control via an app, a multi-user stock management platform for the teams. Cosgrove Electrical understands and appreciates the scale and complexity of the build and brings experience from several sectors to ensure that the pre-construction planning and preparation of the works provide a seamless build for the contract stage.

relationships based on delivering value for money electrical engineering installations that are of superior quality with a team that is committed to setting high standards of service. Our team is fully collaborative, from director level to our project managers and engineers, site supervisors and staff; they all make it possible for us to deliver our vision. We strive to achieve a high customer satisfaction rate and constantly request feedback on how we might improve our operations after each project.” In 2022, Cosgrove Electrical won the electrical contractor of the year and also won an award for best large commercial building of the year, attributed to the strong project management teams employed throughout the projects to ensure quality, planning, and safety at the forefront of the company’s operations. This year the firm is embarking on a reduced carbon footprint plan to reduce the amount of waste from projects, using efficient modern construction methods and material waste management to drive down wastage that ends in landfills and boost high sustainability standards.

The firm offers a high standard of customer care as David explains: “Over the past 23 years, we have worked to build solid customer

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Eire Facades Systems IRL specialises in the design, supply, fabrication and installation of complete building facades systems. We deliver building facades projects across all sectors of the construction industry including: Commercial ◆ Industrial ◆ Healthcare ◆ Education ◆ Residential

The Ridge, Old Leighlin, Co. Carlow, R93 CK20 Mobile: 086 601 3155 ◆ info@eirefacades.ie

www.eirefacades.ie

With more than 30 years experience, Eire Facades Systems IRL are trusted experts in design, fabrication and installation of commercial facades. Clients choose the company for its technical expertise, quality of delivery, supply chain excellence and close working relationships.

Excellence in Construction Design & Installation Complete Building Façade Systems

EIRE FACADES SYSTEMS

Eire Facades Systems IRL specialises in the design, supply, fabrication and installation of complete building facades systems including fabrication of external cladding – aluminium panels, cement sheets, interlocking panels etc. Offering timely delivery of services from quotation, design and fabrication to installation on site, the company delivers building facade projects across all sectors of the construction industry. With its unique services in 3D modelling supporting BIM co-ordinated projects, the company has the ability to achieve exceptionally stunning facades. Managing Director Roy Smyth started the company in Australia in 2005 with only four staff members. He subsequently returned home to Ireland and moved his company with him. Since then Eire Facade Systems has gone from strength to strength, currently employing over forty highly skilled employees. Roy’s ethos is to establish long-term relationships with his customers by providing exceptional customer service and treating people with respect and honesty. “We earn

trust by being responsive, intuitive, and honest and by delivering on time and on budget,” he explains. It’s a formula that clearly works with the company having an exemplary reputation in the industry for the design, fabrication and installation of commercial facades. “Clients choose us for our technical expertise, quality of delivery, supply chain excellence and close working relationships,” Roy adds. “We believe in treating people with respect and honesty. We integrate honesty, integrity, and business ethics into all aspects of our business opportunities.” A full-service delivery is assured, including coordinating samples, shop drawings, engineering, procurement of materials, fabrication, delivery and project installation. All cladding and framing shop drawings are fully documented, and the company provides design certification specific to project requirements. To achieve cost efficiency, the team evaluates a project from an operational overview of all aspects, including design and methodology. They carefully review specifications, compliance,

location, site conditions, cost budgets, etc., to ensure a cost-effective proposal. Safety is also at the forefront of everything that Eire Facades do, and they continually review and revise safety policies and Safe Work Method Statements to maintain best practices in both fabrication and installation. Ongoing projects include Connelly Hospital with BAM Construction and the new Tallaght Satellite Centre on the grounds of the Tallaght Adelaide and Meath Hospital campus – a BIM project with services being designed and coordinated in REVIT. Customer satisfaction is paramount to the Eire Facades team as Roy explains: “Every one of your customers will have a different view of excellent customer service. Therefore, you must know and understand what their needs are,” Roy says, explaining that it is vital to communicate consistently with customers. “Part of understanding our customers is listening to them. Listen to what they say–whether positive or negative- and learn from that valuable information.”

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EXCELLENCE

in Building...

RESIDENTIAL RESTORATION RESTAURANTS HOTELS & BARS OFFICE FITOUTS 085 866 3120 | 085 173 8669 roy@emlconstruction.ie | noel@emlconstruction.ie www.emlconstruction.ie

Excellence in Construction Celebrating 10 Years in Business Construction & Conservation

EML is a company providing construction services to the public and private sectors. Services range from housebuilding, office fit-out and conservation works to commercial works.

EML CONSTRUCTION Founded in late 2012, EML Construction Ltd. has established itself as a reputable construction company, driven by a core group of experienced management professionals and skilled tradespeople. With a firm commitment to cultivating strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, sub-contractors, and suppliers, they take great pride in their ability to deliver exceptional results. The company’s unwavering dedication to client satisfaction ensures that they consistently strive to exceed expectations in every project undertaken. Much of EML’s business is garnered through word of mouth and recommendations from architects, engineers, design teams, and previous clients. The firm works closely with new clients and designers to get a clear picture of their requirements and expectations and understand how the client’s goals can be met. For EML, its staff is everything. The firm believes that a company can survive and thrive with properly trained and motivated skilled staff. The vast majority of EML’s staff have been with the firm since day one, with some new additions along the way. The company operates a friendly, one-to-one approach with an entire team who pull together to deliver hard work, diligence, and outstanding effort. EML Construction boasts a diverse portfolio, seamlessly transitioning between various

sectors with expertise and finesse. With capabilities extending to restoration and conservation projects, meticulous preservation techniques are required. Collaborating closely with architects and engineers, they adhere to strict guidelines and regulations, ensuring the highest standards of quality and authenticity are upheld throughout the process. In addition to proficiency in restoration and conservation, EML Construction excels in the construction of high-end modern homes, small house extensions, office fitouts, and commercial projects. Whether it’s creating luxurious, contemporary residences or seamlessly integrating extensions into existing structures, the team of skilled professionals is dedicated to bringing clients’ visions to life. Working closely with architects to ensure that their designs are meticulously executed, while also offering valuable experience to optimise functionality, costs and aesthetics. Understanding the unique requirements of office fit-outs and commercial projects, EML recognises the importance of balancing finances, functionality, efficiency and aesthetics in these endeavours. By collaborating closely with clients, they create tailored solutions that meet their specific needs, whether it’s building dynamic and modern office spaces or constructing

functional commercial facilities. Their commitment to open communication and collaboration ensures seamless project delivery and strong client satisfaction. At EML Construction, we recognise the importance of building strong and lasting relationships with clients. Prioritising clear and open communication ensuring that clients are informed and involved every step of the way. Dedicated project managers oversee each project, ensuring that timelines and budgets are meticulously adhered to, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. EML Construction has just commenced an inspiring restoration project, restoring three large whiskey stills from the nineteenth century. The firm is also immensely proud of its restoration and conservation works of the Shelbourne Hotel façade. The team finds these projects particularly rewarding - conserving and protecting living pieces of history for future generations. EML Construction prides itself on building strong relationships. Its diverse portfolio means they possess the expertise to excel in various sectors. Unwavering dedication to excellence, attention to detail, and commitment to client satisfaction set them apart in the industry.

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By the coast or by the mountains, suburban and well connected, we create harmonious communities that enable people to live their best lives. By balancing heritage, the natural environment and public realm with modern development, people and green infrastructure, we enable home owners to enjoy high quality, inclusive environments with great leisure and recreation amenities. Taking our role as a place maker very seriously, through creative design, strong master-planning and joined up thinking, we develop and create more sustainable communities, reducing our carbon footprint resulting in communities and neighbourhoods that stand the test of time.

A VISION FOR IRELAND'S FUTURE

BRINGING PROPERT Y & PLACES TO LIFE Q U I N T A I N . I E

Quintain is one of the largest property developers in the country, with a landbank that can accommodate over 9,000 units across four locations in Adamstown, Portmarnock, Cherrywood and Clonburris.

Excellence in Public Sector Residential Services Ireland’s Best Property Developer

QUINTAIN Quintain’s team of 54 employees work across all stages of housing delivery, from acquisition to master planning, design and construction through to sales and marketing. The firm’s ambition as a large-scale property developer is to create exceptional and affordable places to live which are at the forefront of sustainability, design and placemaking for communities, delivering in addition to new homes, retail and leisure amenities, parks and schools, in locations chosen for their efficient transport links.

and healthier residents emerging in our neighbourhoods.

In a society that needs quality, modern housing with excellent amenities for families of all ages, Quintain Ireland’s landbank across four key locations creates communities for today’s societal needs. The company endeavours to adopt the 15-minute town planning concept whereby everything needed for a good life – work, live, study, culture, exercise – is available within 15 minutes by walking, cycling, bus, or LUAS, thus reducing the need for cars and urban sprawl. Implementing this planning principle undoubtedly sees happier

Since Quintain Ireland was formed in 2019, the firm encountered headwinds including Covid – 19, closely followed by supply chain challenges by a combination of events including pent-up demand for materials, shipping container shortages, the Ukrainian war, the energy crisis and hyperinflation - all in the background of nationwide housing provision problems and planning difficulties. Many of these challenges would have led to floundering business but for newly formed teams like Quintain’s, the challenge was intensified.

The energy efficiency of Quintain’s homes plays a key role in the firm’s fight to reduce the carbon footprint within our neighbourhoods and homes through improved insulation, switching to renewables and switching to energy-efficient appliances. Whether it be thinking green by walking, cycling, using public transport, eating local food, and leaving as light a carbon footprint as possible.

Executive Director Eddie Byrne explains more: “Early in our business, we identified our core values including professionalism, Integrity and Team Players, Solution Focus and Exceptional Designs. These core values were the primary objectives when recruiting and developing team members into Quintain. They ensured that we had the adaptability within our team to navigate economic challenges, impact on the communities around our business, rise to demographic change and adapt to new environmental conditions. “This allowed us to prioritise achievement of planning permission for over 2,250 units over this period and hand over the keys of 608 new homes to people in 2022. “We adapt to play an important role in the communities where we operate. By being mindful of our projects’ impact on residents, businesses, and the environment, we have successfully built a positive reputation and established strong relationships with the communities surrounding us.”

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Demografic Shift Eddie is acutely aware of demographic shifts, including substantial increases in population size over the coming decade, diversity of nationalities, their bespoke needs, age distribution and income levels, as these changes impact on the demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure. “By anticipating these shifts, we have positioned ourselves to take advantage of new opportunities,” he explains. “In Adamstown for instance, we are investing strongly in the provision of a new town centre known as ‘The Crossings’ which includes new retail spaces including Tesco, Aldi and 20 new smaller retail spaces around a Public Plaza adjacent to the Adamstown train station. This space is fully wheelchair accessible and provides for the needs of all demographics now and into the foreseeable future, with particular focus on customer needs over the next 10 to 20 years.” Quintain takes its role as developer and place maker very seriously. In a short number of years, the firm has dramatically impacted the evolving Dublin landscape with the ongoing development of new neighbourhoods in Portmarnock, Cherrywood and Adamstown. The example of Adamstown is a real exemplar of securing community futures. Quitain feels renewal and regeneration go hand in hand. It’s adoption and ongoing completion of the Adamstown development is an excellent example of the same. The story of the landmark SDZ Adamstown project stalling in such an early stage of construction amid the global financial crash is known well. Quintain picked up the reins in 2015 when, in tandem with the renewal of home construction, a new focus also centred on

creating the missing infrastructure so essential to the community. Under the firm’s guidance, this is now a secured, phased programme, delivering well through its construction supply chain framework and strategic partners. Quintain’s role as a developer and place maker comes with a great responsibility to establish urban neighbourhoods that are not only sustainable but create improved liveability and quality of life for its future residents. The firm provides mixed-use neighbourhoods and mixed-density zones, leading to more inclusive and vibrant communities. Sustainable Communities Housing is just one part of the story. In Quintain’s creation of sustainable communities where people can live, laugh and work, the firm has been responsible for amenities that make local neighbourhoods successful: A community centre, two supermarkets at The Crossings, 400 spaces multi-storey car park, 20 retail units, an urban plaza, two parks - Tandys & Airlie Park - and a post-primary school planning site. The cost of delivery for these amenities is €60m. Community engagement is another of Quintain’s core values. Eddie explains: “We have worked with and continue to work with various voluntary groups to support the local community which is made up of many residents across our neighbourhoods. Our community engagement strategy aims to foster a vibrant and happy community by bringing together existing and new residents, local groups and school communities. We want our residents to be proud of where they live and to ensure that there is more to their neighbourhoods than just bricks and mortar.

“Throughout 2022 we raised €40,000 through employee charitable donations and company events. The many beneficiaries helped during 2022 include Dublin Simon Community, Temple Street Childrens Hospital, Irish Red Cross, Lámh Fáilte – Helping the Homeless and Unicef. We are very proud to be a cornerstone sponsor of Dragons at the Docks, which in 2022 raised enough funds to provide ten properties, providing homes for fifteen people who are homeless.” Quintain supports the local schools in its communities by sponsoring various events or sporting teams. For community initiatives, support is offered financially and where possible, giving company time and expertise on community-based projects. For example, Saint Marnock’s Bay Community Orchard is a resident-led community initiative in a growing neighbourhood full of young families. This project is designed to encourage community integration, awareness of sustainability and organic growing, and educate young children on the value and importance of where our food comes from. Quintain’s participation in this project is giving a section of land to allow the orchard to be planted, professional landscape architect and project management. Other ongoing charitable activities include sponsorship of Adamstown Ladies Cricket Club, UCD Men’s Hockey, Malahide FC, Lucan Festival, Adamstown Community College GAA Team, Adamstown Community College Soccer Team, Lucan Sarsfields GAA Club and Crann – Coillte Initiative for primary school children in Adamstown Quintain creates and delivers inclusive places through exceptional design, fearless creativity and cultural identity, putting residents and communities first to accommodate varying affordability levels, generate employment and build sustainable, thriving communities. The firm is creative, innovative, and entrepreneurial in its master plans and designs. Eddie concludes by saying: “My greatest lesson in business was during the financial crisis of 2008 which taught me to never take anything for granted. There is no such thing as a risk-free decision; you always have to question where things can go wrong and if they go wrong, how it might impact your business. I live by the Benjamin Franklin adage ‘By failing to prepare; you are preparing to fail’.”

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Safety Management Specialists Environmental, Health and Safety Award

DCON Safety Consultants serves a wide and varied selection of customers including public sector departments, corporate owners, real estate developers, main contractors, design professionals and infrastructural bodies. No project is considered too simple or complex for the team of highquality specialist consultants, averaging 20+ years’ experience working in the built environment.

DCON With seven years in business, DCON Safety Consultants continues to come to the industry forefront after successfully claiming another industry recommendation award. The company returned to the winner’s podium recently by receiving the prestigious Public Sector Magazine Excellence in Business Award for 2023 having already claimed the equivalent award in 2022 and 2021. Founder and Managing Director Diarmuid Condon instantly deflects praise to his clients and industry partners. 2023 has so far been an excellent year for the company as it was once more recognised by the Public Sector Magazine, a feat which Diarmuid admits would not have been possible without the invaluable input of an extensive network of partners. He explains: “We are humbled to have been chosen as an award recipient for 2023 but the reality simply is that we would not have received this award without our clients, their design teams and project managers, our consultant partners that we work closely with on a dayto-day basis prioritising health, safety and

wellbeing. We must acknowledge all project parties, as it is ultimately a collaborative effort.” Proven leaders in built environmental, health & safety and wellbeing consultancy matters - DCON Safety Consultants prioritises and specialises in the highest levels of informed and intelligent advice, senior project resource allocation and compliance assurance. Acutely cognisant that every project with potential beneﬁts also has potential risks, the team consistently prioritises and safeguards each client’s best interest and statutory conformity. While collecting awards obviously should not rank high on any practice’s list of priorities, it is nevertheless true that it provides businesses with some additional positive press. When DCON struck gold with the 2022 Public Sector Magazine Excellence in Business Award, Diarmuid noticed that his LinkedIn profile attracted at least 26,250 views within a week!

“It’s recognition of what you do and how well you are doing it, and it’s also free marketing, but at the same time, there is also a consequence to winning an award in that you must maintain your high standards thereafter and be even better going forward,” he concedes. “While you can draw a line in the sand each time you win an award, you have been placed on a pedestal from which you can be knocked down – and I do not particularly want to be knocked down from it. I prefer to move upwards. Our modus operandi is to excel at what we are good at and never to overpromise and fail.” While Diarmuid’s record of accomplishment in designing and executing strategic safety plans and systems for construction projects in Ireland and the UK is exceptional, his comprehensive background as a construction professional has been key to taking DCON Safety Consultants to where it is today. “While we provide safety services, we also understand how things get constructed and deconstructed. There’s value in that, and it

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is earned. We understand that value, and we are always open to learning and strive to excel in new technologies, be that lean construction, alternative design layouts or BIM developments. You must consider whether that technology suits the Irish market and the client on each project. We are fully committed to consistently learning and to acquiring the understanding which enables us to have that conversation at the right level with influencers and decisionmakers across design teams.” At any given time, the experts at DCON Safety Consultants are active on various bespoke projects for a wide range of clients

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across the city centre and beyond. Some ongoing projects at the time of writing include the Cherrywood Town Centre Development, Camden Yard Development (former Kevin Street DIT campus), Project Calvary Dublin 3, 2 Grand Parade Dublin 6, and various data centre, aviation, restoration and regeneration masterplan projects. With this 2023 Award proudly on display – symbolising DCON Safety Consultants’ strong relations with its clients, design team partners and project management teams – this progressive safety consultancy practice seeks to enter a new year with a decided spring in its collective step.

Proven leaders in built environmental, health & safety and wellbeing consultancy matters - DCON Safety Consultants prioritises and specialises in the highest levels of informed and intelligent advice, senior project resource allocation and compliance assurance.

Consulting on various aspects of project design, constructability and operational lifecycle matters for local and global commercial clients.

OUR SERVICES — DESIGN SUPERVISOR — PLANNING COMPLIANCE — CONSTRUCTION HEALTH & SAFETY — HEALTH & SAFETY STRATEGY — EXPERT WITNESS

DCON Safety Consultants Suite 5, Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin 2 Email info@dconsafety.com Phone +353 (0)1 611 155

www.dconsafety.com

COMPLETE FIT-OUT

Including joinery, ceilings, partitions, external facades, roofing, glazing and flooring. Based in Cork, but working throughout Ireland – Unique Fitout are general building contractors as well as specialists in total turnkey fit-outs of office interiors, shops, hotels, bars and restaurants Unique Fitout also provide facilities maintenance services for educational & health-care buildings, offices, hotels, retail outlets and large multi-national IT manufacturers.

DESIGN

MANUFACTURING AND INSTALLATION

We boast an in-house design team who can demonstrate, if required, how a concept interior fit out is transformed from a hand drawn illustration to a detailed 3D rendered drawing and finally to a finished product.

Our production team are capable of manufacturing high quality bespoke pieces within a relatively short time frame with an emphasis on attention to detail. All items are manufactured in our workshop by highly skilled cabinet makers with over 20 years experience. They are familiar with all types of veneers, laminates, solid timbers and other materials such as natural and composite stone

For more information or to book an appointment please contact: Unique Fitout, Unit 4, Sarsfield Court Industrial Estate, Glanmire, Co. Cork, T45 CC67, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)21 4822656

Email: info@uniquefitout.ie

www.uniquefitout.ie

Excellence in Design Manufacturing & Maintenance Turnkey Fit Out Solutions

Unique Fitout Unlimited started in 2009 and now comprises a full-time staff of 55 persons with sales in excess of €8 million per annum. The business works in conjunction with other companies in the development of housing for the private and public sector.

UNIQUE FITOUT Unique Fitout has offices in Ireland, Belgium and the UK. The company work throughout Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe, offering a full service design, manufacturing and maintenance service. They specialise in commercial, retail and hospitality fit-outs with clients ranging from large and small retailers to city and county councils; shopping centres, large multinationals and locally based firms and individuals. “Our philosophy is to do what we do, to the best of our ability and to our client’s satisfaction,” explains Operations Manager Sidney McElhinney. “We take time with each client, big or small, to identify what they are looking for. We adopt their requirements into a project that will work for them and leave them with something that not only looks good, but enhances their workspace or home.” Unique Fitout has its own joinery manufacturing facility, which means there is cohesion from initial concept to final installation and having any queries sorted immediately, instead of involving several different companies. In

addition, the company’s design department keeps up with new trends which are then manufactured in the joinery workshop. “Keeping abreast of the latest styles is important while maintaining a high level standard of production,” Sidney adds. “Our creative team can show the client the concept from a hand-drawn illustration to a detailed 3D rendered drawing, and finally to the finished product. This means that before they commit to a design, clients can see in advance how the project will look when completed.” Sidney explains that the intricacies involved in each project level, whether public authority, business, or private sector, including the training and qualifications of all those working on each stage, is something the company takes very seriously. Planning, attention to detail and highly trained staff are key components in successful project delivery. To this end, the company recognises that each employee plays a vital part in the company’s success. “Because of this, each staff member is treated

with utmost respect, and we celebrate and recognize their contribution at Unique Fitout,” he notes. Awards and accolades are numerous, including the Excellence in Facilities Management Award in 2020 and 2021 for a Social Affordable Housing Project, which Sidney says he is very proud of, especially in the current climate of homelessness. “This type of project particularly resonates with the team, and they are delighted to be working on an ongoing project, the fit-out of a centre for children with severe medical conditions. Knowing that the company is playing a small part in helping those less fortunate is particularly rewarding,” he adds. “By doing a good job and giving the client what they want and need, your reputation in the industry precedes you, and you will be known by your high quality of workmanship,” believes Sidney. Little wonder, therefore, that Unique Fitout adds one more award to its impressive list of accolades for turnkey fit-out solutions.

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New Home Builds - Home Renovations - Home Extensions Commercial Construction - Groundwork

www.khclconstruction.ie

Servicing the County Wicklow region for over two decades, KHCL Ltd lends its vast construction experience and craftsmanship to private and public sectors alike.

Excellence in Business Construction New Home and Renovations Regional Award, Leinster

KHCL LTD Based in Arklow, KHCL Ltd is a progressive construction company that prides itself on completing high-quality projects on time and within budget, attributes which, in a climate of ever-rising costs and inflation, are highly valued by its clients. The company specialises in home extensions and renovations, new house development, commercial construction and groundwork. As builders of new homes, KHCL Ltd works with the best architects, surveyors, engineers and trades and is proud of its ability to offer a turnkey service. Clients have the confidence to go about their daily lives and activities, knowing KHCL is handling the smallest detail of the build, from start to finish, to the highest of standards. Recent new build projects include a beautiful 4-bedroom house in Fernhill, Arklow. The house is A3-rated, airtight and with tripleglazed windows. It boasts a hand-crafted kitchen with a tiled floor, granite worktops and cosy wooden floors throughout the downstairs living area. KHCL have great

experience building homes that incorporate the latest energy-saving features to keep living costs down for the homeowner and help the environment. The house in Fernhill is no exception, with state-of-the-art PV Solar Panels producing power for the house and feeding excess electricity back to the grid. Home extensions and renovations are projects that can be diverse in nature. KHCL takes projects from the structural work of brick and block, roofing, plumbing and electricals through to the aesthetics of tiling and decorating. Their clients also benefit from their expertise in internal and exterior disability adaptations and landscaping. Director, Kevin Harper, says: “When building your home extension, we make sure that the disruption to your family is as minimal as possible, by isolating the living area from the building work and keeping the site of construction as clean as possible. “The strength of our company is our team made up of highly skilled, dedicated and experienced workers, whose obsession is

producing work to the highest possible standard,” he adds. The company also boasts a versatile fleet of groundwork machinery and equipment and specialises in all aspects of earthwork, from bulk excavations to foundations; from the laying of water mains and electrical ducting to sewer lines. Kevin notes: “We are able to work in all sectors of the construction industry on a wide range of groundworks, civil engineering, demolition and roadworks projects.” KHCL do not operate purely on a commercial basis within the County Wicklow region, as being part of the community and lending its support to local initiatives is of great importance to the firm. From sponsoring prizes for the popular County Wicklow’s Got Talent competition to lending its time and machinery to clear local rivers blocked following storms that threaten nearby householders with flood water, the company is committed to giving back to the community it thrives in.

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Rendering | Conservation Masonry | Graveyards | Decorative Plasterwork | French Drains

Lime rendering - Hot lime or Common lime rendering Lime Pointing - Pointing using lime Lime wash - Limewash ﬁnishes

Call us: +353 (0) 86 888 2987

Lathe and Plastering Sensitive repairs - Cornice repairs Wall Consolidation - Dash ﬁnish

www.calxrestoration.com

Delivering the highest level of traditional craftsmanship on projects both in Ireland and abroad, CALX Restoration has been engaged in the renovation, restoration and conservation of historic buildings for 25 years.

Excellence in Construction Craftsmanship & Restoration Award

CALX RESTORATION

Damien Condon, founder of CALX Restoration, is a craftsman descended from six generations of plasterers and masons, who specialises in conservation work. Holding a Professional Development Diploma (PDD) in Historic Building Conservation and Repair, another PDD in Conservation and Repair of Architectural Structures and BuildingConservation and a further PDD in West College Sussex, his skill level is clear. Among his specialities are repair and conservation of decorative plasterwork, French drains and conservation and replacement of masonry, including work on sensitive areas such as graveyards. Damien’s particular passion is traditional lime rendering, a subject he is regularly called upon to give talks and demonstrations, both at home in Ireland and abroad. Speaking on RTE 1’s, The Great House Revival, Damien explained how his team would work on repairing and replacing old lime render on the walls of an old surgery in Borrisoleigh. “From a conservation point of view, we like to make the mortars a good match, so we take a sample from the original mortar of the building. We break the sample up and do a visual analysis, then we segregate all

the small granules and go around the local quarries to try and match the same size granules in the form of sand and gravel,” he explains. He goes on to say: “It’s like being a chef, it takes years to remember all the recipes and hold them in your head.” These mortar recipes can include materials such as coal pieces, brick dust and even horse hair and the team’s focus is to reverse-engineer the original mix in order to get the new mortar recipe mix as close as possible to the original. Once the CALX team are happy with the recipe, it is mixed and baked in layers with quick lime to create the render. Damien is passionate about the subject of lime rendering, pointing out that these traditional masonry and rendering techniques produced buildings where moisture is both freely absorbed and released by evaporation from their surface. Damp is kept under control naturally by the choice of materials and construction and prevented from reaching the building’s interior by the depth of the wall and by the rate of evaporation. Unfortunately, during the 1950s a lot of traditional lime rendering was removed from buildings, leaving water to seep into walls and cause damp problems.

Craftsmanship of this level ensures that Damien and his team have a steady stream of interesting and challenging projects. One such project is the restoration of the old Town Hall in Althy to become the world’s first Shackleton Museum. The work on this historic property is being recorded to become part of a 3D virtual tour through the stages of restoration. The CALX team have already been recorded for posterity as they remove modern plaster from the internal walls to reveal the original stonework which will be brought back to life. Another lofty project CALX is involved in is the restoration of the church bell tower at Clonaulty, Tipperary. This at-height work involves removing loose cement material and resins; steam cleaning all carbon deposits; removing and re-bedding stones that have become dislodged; taking down and replacing the bell housing and lightening protection, and repointing masonry. With increasing interest in preserving and caring for historic structures, the future for CALX craftsmanship looks assured.

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Groundworks, Roadworks, Demolition and Civil Engineering projects

Hacketstown, Co. Carlow Phone: 087 2771939 smithgroundworks@gmail.com

www.smithgroundworksandcivilengineering.ie

Excellence in Construction Groundworks & Civil Engineering to the Public Sector

County Carlow-based, awardwinning Smith Groundworks & Civil Engineering specialise in all aspects of earthworks from bulk excavations to foundations and the laying of water mains, electrical ducting, sewer and stormwater lines.

SMITH GROUNDWORKS & CIVIL ENGINEERING LTD Formed in 1995 by Pat Smith, the company has enjoyed year-on-year success and growth to become what it is today. Smith Groundworks, the Outright Winner of the Groundworks Construction Award at the 2021 Public Sector Magazine Awards, owns and operates a modern fleet of trucks, plant and equipment that can undertake any civil engineering project. Excavators range from 1.5 to 35 tonnes, while Pat has also recently invested in crawler cranes for his burgeoning formwork business. Pat explains, “We provide the whole package for our clients with the most skilled labour force. We have our own fleet of lorries, dump trucks and excavators as well as our own landfill where we take in soil and stone.” Smith Groundworks has a proud history of working with the public sector on large projects. Commenting on his collaboration with the sector, Pat says: "The public sector is a great place to work. The projects we work on have a big impact on the local communities. Projects such as schools, student accommodation, sports pitches and so on. It's a joy to work on projects that are appreciated and used by so many."

Some recent projects the company has been engaged with as main contractor include student accommodation at Rathdown Road and residential development at Clay Farm for Walls Construction, as well as a residential development completed for Barina Property Group in March 2023. The remainder of 2023 is just as busy for Smith Groundworks with ongoing residential development projects for Glenveagh Homes in Ashford consisting of 118 two, three and four-bedroomed homes, 13 houses and 23 apartments for Belgrove Homes in Dalkey and a development for BKRN in Mount Prospect, Clontarf. On the commercial front, work is being carried out apace for Dwyer Nolan on an underground car park and a 203 residential unit development at Glenamuck. In Cookstown, Pat's team is nearing the end of a project for MB McNamara, which involved the demolition of the old Gallagher cigarette factory to make way for a residential development. The team is also set to embark on the second phase of another residential project for Dwyer Nolan at Santry Place.

Complete client satisfaction is at the heart of everything the company does. This is achieved through working together as a team and providing reliable, efficient, valuefor-money and all-round exceptional service. Smith Groundworks employees are trained to an exceptional standard and are skilled, experienced and dedicated workers who complete projects that not only meet, but exceed customers' expectations. "We place a strong emphasis on health and safety and ensure that our employees are upto-date with the latest HSA requirements," Pat explains. "We are fully insured, tax compliant and C2 registered. Where applicable, we do a full risk assessment and provide safety statements before any work is done," he adds. "In addition, all machinery is maintained and serviced regularly to ensure that it is in perfect working order, and all legal requirements are met." Pat finishes with a word about his customers, "We've built up a solid reputation and have delivered for our clients time and again. We're reliable, which is so important in this business, and we are always prepared to go the extra mile."

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Hartecast is an Irish based ﬁrm that has established itself as a leading manufacturer of contemporary designed street furniture in Ireland and the UK. All products are manufactured in Ireland.

30 years’ experience As specialists in contemporary street furniture, Hartecast has 30 years’ experience and expertise that is second to none in the industry. Life Time Value Hartecast products are strong, durable and robust, with a proven track record of out-lasting other Street Furniture products on the market. Quality Design and Performance Each product is designed and manufactured to be low maintenance and to oﬀer trouble free performance in use.

www.hartecast.com

Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award Street Furniture

Hartecasts range of quality street furniture is stylish, versatile, robust and designed to outlast all products on the market today.

HARTECAST Hartecast has 33 years of experience in product development and is informed by a deep understanding of the demanding needs of the market, a passion for excellence in product engineering and the use of materials appropriate for purpose, together with a desire to bring design leadership to contemporary street furniture. As well as designing its own product range, Hartecast works with customers to meet their design requirements. The firm uses the highest standards of manufacturing techniques and has unrivalled knowledge of materials and design for purpose. Hartecast’s range of quality street furniture is stylish, versatile, robust and designed to outlast all products on the market today. The design team work with the firm’s engineers and key customers to combine exceptional design with the robustness and durability expected of leading products on this market. With over 90 products in its range, Hartecast has an impressive client base, supplying over 40 local authorities, the Irish Rail Industry, and many other public and private development schemes. Recent success includes the expansion into Northern Ireland and the UK

marketplace with public realm and urban regeneration projects being the speciality. Hartecast is extremely environmentally conscious. The majority of its products are manufactured from recyclable materials, for example, recycled composite timber and ductile iron, which is made from recycled metal, and at the end of the product’s life, is 100% recyclable once again. Hartecast’s turnover has consistently increased; with 2022 being its best year to date. The staff complement has risen to 18, and the firm is constantly designing new products for the ever-more demanding streetscapes. Key to the firm’s success is working closely with clients to understand their needs and adapt designs to meet the demands of street furniture products in today’s modern urban space. Hartecast maintains close contact with its customers and listens to their requirements.

on the market today. We estimate that most of our products have a life cycle of over 50 years with regular maintenance. “Our company continues to grow and achieve excellent results year on year. Last year we supplied 31 of the 32 counties as regards local authorities, and we are the leading supplier of seats and litter bins to all Irish Rail stations nationwide. “We credit much of our success to our excellent team. Many of our personnel have been with us for over 20 years, and we recognise the importance of nurturing talent to retain key people.” Looking to the future, Hartecast is looking forward to continual growth, including expanding its customer base in the UK.

The company is keen to stay ahead of the competition as Managing Director Harry Harte explains: “We create a range of quality street furniture which is stylish, versatile, robust and designed to outlast all products

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Bespoke Build Ltd 1 Liﬀey Heights, Ballymore Eustace Co Kildare. Tel: 045 86 47 56 Mob: 087 6382572 Email: enquiries@bespokebuild.ie

www.bespokebuild.ie Bespoke Build Ltd

Bespoke Build is a specialist contemporary building that focuses on one-off, private domestic and commercial builds. From dream extensions, homes and retail outlets, Bespoke Build is the chosen building partner for clients and architects in Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare and beyond.

Excellence in Construction Specialist Building Projects Award

BESPOKE BUILD At Bespoke Build the team understands that every build is bespoke. Every build presents its challenges that require tailored solutions. The firm aims to navigate its clients through the building process effortlessly, efficiently and happily.

Although, like many other Irish businesses, Bespoke Build faced its challenges in recent years thanks to the global pandemic and subsequent lockdown, the firm rode the storm and has continued to grow year on year.

The company has a proven track record in the industry, an extensive network of suppliers and most importantly, a very high level of craftsmanship. Bespoke Build contracts only the best tradespeople and the best quality materials so that your bespoke build stands the test of time.

Key factors that give Bespoke Build the edge over competitors are their commitment to being involved at the design stage, using the best quality materials and the experience and vast knowledge of the team. This combined with the uniqueness of the builds, ensures the firm remains relevant in a fastmoving and competitive sector.

Established in 2017 and located in Ballymore Eustace, Co Kildare, Bespoke Build Ltd has a team of 20 professionals boasting 25 years of experience in the sector. The wealth of knowledge ensures that customers are guaranteed a high level of service and quality craftsmanship throughout the project with excellence reflected in the finished result.

One of Bespoke Build’s projects featured on the RTE show, My Bungalow Bliss. The project in Wicklow was a stand-out build and brought plenty of attention to the company after the show aired in December 2021.

When it comes to client satisfaction, the testimonials speak for themselves. Recent customers describe the firm's work as "meticulous" and with "great attention to detail". The Bespoke Build team members also get top marks for efficiency, courtesy and reliability. High praise which resulted in the company being awarded the Specialist House Building Award by the Public Sector Awards magazine. Bespoke Build is currently working on projects in Dundrum and Killiney, Co Dublin and in Newbridge, Co Kildare. Despite the increase in building costs due to supply chain issues, the firm has not ruled out further expansion. The future looks bright for this forward-thinking Co Kildare company.

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Mechanical & Electrical Expertise Efﬁcient Innovative Robust Mechanical & Electrical Design

www.pmep.ie

Excellence in Business Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Award

Penston MEP Consulting Limited is a mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy specialising in project management and building services, engineering design for mechanical and electrical projects in the commercial, retail, education, health, power and industrial sectors.

PENSTON MEP CONSULTING Penston MEP provides mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy services, including the design of M&E systems, professional advice and due diligence services. The company specialises in project management and building services, and engineering design for mechanical and electrical projects in the commercial, retail, education, health, energy, and industrial sectors. The company’s directors are involved in all projects from concept to completion. At the same time, its team of qualified engineers and technicians are results-driven individuals focused on providing commercially efficient and quality engineering solutions. The practice offers proactive solutions in line with its client’s goals and objectives. “We offer the complete range of design expertise for building services installations through our experienced teams equipped with the latest IT facilities and specialist design software,” explains CEO Nick Penston. “Our comprehensive approach takes care of all facets of the design process from establishing the brief, outlining options, estimating costs and agreeing on budgets

to schematics, plant layouts, performance specifications and equipment sourcing and procurement.” A committed project manager who takes pride in every project that he oversees, CEO Nick Penston promotes a business development culture throughout his team, securing work with existing and new clients and acting as a key point of contact for clients. To this end, PMEP commits to director involvement in all projects from concept to completion. “Our team of qualified engineers and technicians are results-driven and 100% focussed on providing commercially efficient and quality engineering solutions,” he says. Our mission is to be a leading provider of specialised engineering services for building owners, builders, buyers, managers and developers. We want to enhance peoples’ lives through an improved understanding of the buildings in which they live and work, using sound, practical, engineering judgement when evaluating projects. In addition, we look to continually improve our standard of service through clear and responsive communication.”

This high level of dedication to projects has been invaluable throughout the public and private sectors, and the company boasts a diverse and impressive client list at home and abroad. Clients include Jaguar Landrover, Slack, Hibernia REIT, Lioncor, Central Pharma, Park Developments, Central Bank of Ireland, Irish Cement, Dublin Port, Trinity College, National Ambulance Service, Beaumont and Tallaght Hospitals. Overseas projects include works at Harbour Exchange and East India Dock in London as well as several highlevel projects in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Libya, the UK and Barcelona. No stranger to awards and accolades, Nick Penston remains true to his core value of putting the client’s needs first and taking a hands-on approach on every project. In this regard, Penston MEP is in safe hands and the company is a deserved winner of yet another award, the Excellence in Business Award for consultancy firm of the year.

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PUSHING THE ENVELOPE BCL Contract Ltd, design, supply, install a variety of envelope and roofing solutions on all new and refurbishment buildings. Having delivered prestigiou, high profile projects nationwide, BCL Contracts is widely regarded as one of Irelands’ premier roofing & cladding contractors.

Specialist in the following sectors:

Sports & Leisure • Aviation • Bespoke buildings Education • Energy • Health

Tel: +353 61 419824 • Fax: +353 61 419826 E-mail: info@bclcontracts.com

www.bclcontracts.ie

Excellence in Construction Roofing & Cladding Award

Balintaw Contracts Ltd (BCL Contracts) is a bespoke roofing and cladding company involved in many prestigious projects, including the redevelopment of Thomond Park and the award-winning state-of-the-art climbing wall at the University of Limerick.

BCL Colum Breen, CEO, set up BCL Contracts in November 2004 as a standard roofing and cladding company for the commercial construction industry. The original crew of four staff, including one in the rented office in Harvey's Quay Limerick, branched out into flat and pitched roofing along with metal insulated wall panels.

growth continuing for BCL Contracts while we focus on the international tech sectors.

In 2007, a trusted client showed huge confidence in the company's ability and took them on board for the redevelopment of Thomond Park Rugby Stadium. This project opened the door to the next level of roofing and cladding and the vast choice range of many different products.

“Every industry has its risks and challenges, however, we pride ourselves on the speed at which BCL Contracts can adapt to change by listening and learning from our staff and clients every day.

Since then, the company has completed projects varying from aviation hangars, sports stadia, university buildings, schools, racecourses, shopping centres, and structures for the life sciences and technology sectors. Colum explains how the firm has overcome the hurdles in the industry: "Like all companies in all sectors, the recession of 2008 forced us to adapt. However, with the many sectors we were involved in, we count ourselves as one of the lucky ones, with

"With the onset of the pandemic in 2020, like most, our growth slowed, but again we adapted and focused on the Life Science sector of the industry and work continued for us following a shorter lockdown than most.

"Our reliance on our manufacturers and suppliers in seeking advice on the vast range of products available to us allows us to navigate the industry's challenges and risks. Every day is a school day. "In almost 20 years in this industry we have witnessed huge change in the application of design, construction and completion of projects. B-Car, Programming, Safety and Bim design is the new construction; all four compliment each other on every project. Setting out each project into these categories ensures compliance, delivering projects safely and on time to the clients'

satisfaction. Wall cladding, as it was in 2004 has substantially changed. Façade finishes and rainscreen cladding provide a huge change in the industry with top-of-the-range finishes achievable to the external walls of each project," Colum explains. "The variable choice of products provides a huge array of colour, shape and longevity. The end product often surprises me with its clean lines and features, allowing the building to provide its own stamp to the surrounding areas for the client," he adds. Constantly adapting to change allows BCL to remain on top of the game and maintain the confidence of re-occurring and new clients. Listen and Learn Colum describes how the business functions so well: "BCL Contracts listen carefully to the client's requirements; we detail and develop the design intent and present this to our customers; we listen again and create the changes needed to satisfy the client. This proactive and learning approach, along with delivering projects to the client's satisfaction instils confidence in our clients and they become a re-occurring customer.

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Colum feels that staff members are the ultimate key to the success of BCL Contracts, "mutual respect for their ideas and changes to our model is key to staff retention and motivation, learning from our younger staff of new technologies available to assist our day-to-day running and leaning on our site leaders experience to produce the end product," he says.

Shannon. We have an endless list of projects complete throughout Ireland, all standing the test of time.

BCL Contracts has retained many staff members for as long as 15 years, which gives an insight into their high regard for staff in the belief that "everyone learns from each other," a huge contributory factor to success.

“In 2010 we purchased our own premises in Unit G2 Eastway Business Park, Ballysimon Road Limerick, which included new office space for our growing staff and a manufacturing facility for pressings and accessories to the industry. Sales have continued to grow year on year with a steady growth up to 2017 of 1600 times our initial turnover and pushing up to 4000 times in 2023. Staff numbers have also grown in line with this growth.

Colum continues: “It’s always great to see our work in the lines of the Thomand Park Stadium on the skyline of Limerick city. Many of our completed projects have been nominated for awards, with the most recent achievement being the state-of-the-art Climbing Wall at the University of Limerick. We have completed a massive research facility for PepsiCo in Cork along with the Range Rover/Jaguar R & D structure in

“The Construction Industry can be a very challenging industry with a huge amount of moving parts on a daily basis," Colum says. "We learn from our mistakes and use this education to assist in the next day's challenges, and we never carry a 'know-itall' mantra. Communications with all our team, manufacturers, suppliers and clients is essential, as no one likes not to be heard or listened to."

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BCL Contracts plan to expand their Limerick base by constructing additional office space and refurbishing the existing structure, due for completion in late November. This will enable the company to further expand and ensure continued growth. Colum adds: “Our order book to date looks healthy, bringing us well into 2024. Again, some large prestigious clients have placed their confidence in us to deliver. While we have completed many projects in our 19 years, we look forward to many more in the coming years and remain ready to adapt, change and continually learn in this everchanging industry.” Colum concludes by quoting Douglas Adams: "To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured, and that is sincerity and integrity." This is exactly how BCL Contracts do business.

Best Collaborative Scheme Housing Initiative Award

The First Home Scheme was launched by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD on the 7th of July 2022.

THE FIRST HOME SCHEME The First Home Scheme helps homebuyers by funding the gap between their mortgage, deposit and price of their new home in return for an equity share in the home. A simple example of how this might work is as follows: An individual or couple wish to purchase a new home that costs €350k; they earn a combined salary of €70k per annum. Under current rules (four times their salary), they qualify for a mortgage of €280k and must have a 10% deposit (they can also avail of the Help to Buy Scheme), which in this case is €35k. When they combine their maximum mortgage with their 10% deposit, the maximum available to them is €315k. However, the price of the new home is €350k - a shortfall of €35k, or 10%. In this scenario, the First Home Scheme can provide the individual/couple with the €35k for a 10% equity stake in the new home. The First Home Scheme can provide up to 20% (30% if not availing of the Help to

Buy scheme) of the new home’s value as an equity share. The scheme can also be utilised by people who fall under the Fresh Start Principle - those who have been subject to divorce, judicial separation or those who have gone through an insolvency process and have lost their interest in the family home as a result. The scheme has some unique features such as no interest to be paid, since this is an equity product instead of a debt product (such as a mortgage). From the beginning of year six, there is a service charge of 1.75%, increasing to 2.15% after 15 years and 2.85% after 29 years. A customer can opt to roll these charges up with the equity amount at no cost to them (simple interest). Price ceilings - the maximum price of a new home that the scheme will support, have been set for each local authority area, to minimise the risk of market distortion and house price inflation. These ceilings are reviewed regularly and will be adjusted as deemed necessary.

Customers can redeem all or part of the equity amount held by the First Home Scheme in their home, up to a maximum of two redemptions per annum. There are four normal lifecycle events, including the property sale - where the equity provided by the First Home Scheme must be redeemed by the customer, along with any outstanding charges. A key aspect of the scheme is that the amount held by the First Home Scheme in the home is a percentage of the equity and that this amount does change as property prices rise and fall over time. This is considered fair, as when the customer redeems the equity share, the equity amount may have increased but so has the value of the property, so in reality, they are no better or worse off than they were when they purchased the home on day one. The First Home Scheme is being administered by the First Home Scheme DAC and has a €400m fund which will allow up to 8,000 individuals or couples to purchase their first

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home and get onto the property ladder. The scheme currently has four shareholders: The Minister for Housing Local Government and Heritage, AIB, BOI and Permanent TSB. The fund may increase over time and is open for other authorised mortgage lenders in the Irish market to join the scheme. As of the end of June 2023, more than 1900 buyers in 24 counties have been approved by the scheme and have received eligibility certificates to allow them to buy their chosen home. More than 450 of these buyers have

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now completed their home purchase with the assistance of the First Home Scheme. The scheme has been extended to support self-builders and also tenants seeking to purchase their rental home, as the landlord is putting it on the market. Many more individuals and couples who struggled with the prospect of ever owning their own home will now be in a position to do so.

The scheme has several unique features - such as no interest to be paid, since this is an equity product instead of a debt product like a mortgage.

The First Home Scheme makes home ownership achievable for first-time buyers* by bridging the gap between their deposit and mortgage, and the price of their new home.

DEPOSIT

MORTGAGE

FIRST HOME SCHEME

NEW HOME

To check eligibility or to find out more please visit:

firsthomescheme.ie If you have a query, you can email us at info@firsthomescheme.ie or call us on 0818 275 662 between 9am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. * and other eligible homebuyers

The First Home Scheme is funded and supported by the Government of Ireland (Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage) in partnership with Participating Lenders. Warning: The equity amount you owe may go up or down in line with the value of your home. Ts & Cs apply. Fi First Home Scheme Ireland DAC is incorporated in Ireland under company number 710046 with its registered oﬀice at Pembroke Hall, 29 Mount Street Upper, Dublin 2, D02 K003.

Are you, or someone you know, trying to buy their first new home?

If so, and there is a funding gap, the First Home Scheme could be the answer.

John FARAGE O’BRIEN Alternative Dispute Resolution Construction Contracts

John Farage O’Brien, the well-established firm of contract claims and dispute consultants to both contractors and employers, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year providing expert consultancy and support services to domestic and international construction clients. The firm has enjoyed an impeccable record in managing and negotiating settlements in some of the state’s largest public and private sector construction disputes. When asked how he achieves such success for his clients in complicated construction disputes, especially in areas where the parties still retain control of the process at mediation and conciliation, principal consultant John FFF O’Brien says: “We find that most adversarial groups we meet across the table normally possess an

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unbalanced weighting of knowledge and understanding across what we describe as the ‘four core construction industry disciplines´. It is in the art of properly balancing the influences of these disciplines across the relevant facts that we find resolution to many disputes.” O’Brien explains that the four core construction industry disciplines that entwine into every construction dispute in different measures and weightings are: (1) commercial; (2) contractual; (3) legal and (4) technical. Technical, he adds, is split into two sub-categories: design and construction methodology. “Each discipline is but the tip of its own tall Christmas tree, with hundreds of branches spreading out below. Having to understand

To get to a strong position of certainty before a dispute can be settled is an iterative process that requires constant input from a party’s team, which includes weighted inputs from witnesses of fact, experts, consultants and lawyers potentially thousands of underlying issues enmeshed within all four disciplines is precisely what makes construction disputes inherently complex to assess and resolve - especially to those who are fluent in only one or two of the core disciplines (and whose fluency in those disciplines can often blind them to the importance of the others). “Conciliation or mediation is often the first time that the paying party on the other side of the dispute sees their own position being rigorously stress-tested. In our experience, many such paying parties, having seen the limitations of their entrenched alpha team member for the first time and realising how incomplete their grasp is of the four disciplines, begin to see the settlement as a much more attractive option. “To get to a strong position of certainty before a dispute can be settled is an iterative process that requires constant input from a party’s team, which includes weighted inputs from witnesses of fact, experts, consultants and lawyers,” says O’Brien.

“The party receiving this new information needs to be receptive to objectively weighing its worth and feeding results into a live risk register that is constantly updated to assess how the party’s position is either getting stronger or indeed getting weaker. A party with a clear and unjaundiced view of its own case’s strengths (and weaknesses), will also do better in negotiation, as the scope for surprise and the need for rapid re-assessment is radically reduced.” When asked if similar considerations apply at adjudication or arbitration hearings, O’Brien explains: “As parties enter into the arena of the short and sharp process of statutory adjudication under the Construction Contracts Act 2013, they have already begun to lose control of their dispute to a third-party neutral. “Having your dispute crystallised and weighted objectively across the four disciplines is paramount, before pulling that

trigger to refer. It is simply too late to do so for the first time under the quickfire demands of one of the Minister’s panel adjudicators, where they are using powers and specialist knowledge to ascertain facts and matters in the case required for a decision in 28 days. “If your dispute gets into the arbitration arena, then all party control is lost, and your fate now lies 100% in the hands of a third-party neutral, with very little scope for any further appeal or challenge – finding out your weightings at that stage is much too late. However, the threat of arbitration and the dynamic of sealed offers that normally ensue to de-risk the normal rule of costs following the event, is very much a part of the dispute resolution process. “Our advice is to get good advice early and remain in control,” John FFF O’Brien concludes. E. info@johnfarageobrien.ie

“The team needs to remain dynamic to react, (and perhaps re-adjust its position) to the inevitable issue of new information from the opposition - by way of submission papers; pleadings; particulars, or from plenary sessions with the third-party neutral.

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EVERY JOURNEY Counts Bus it, walk it, bike it, train it. The Government introduce measures to help Ireland reduce its transport emissions. Budget 2024 will ensure that families and young adults will continue to benefit from cheaper public transport fares. The 50% discount for those with the ‘Young Adult Card’ has been extended for two more years and will now benefit 19-25 year olds up to their 26th birthday. Currently the discount ends when a person reaches 24 years old. These additional cuts come alongside the 20% fare reductions for all, originally introduced as a temporary cost-of-living measure and now secured for another year. Commenting, Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan said: “I am delighted that we can continue to extend and improve the historic fare reductions. This makes Ireland one of the most cost effective countries in Europe to travel as a young person. But we won’t stop

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there. We have also secured a commitment to review transport fares for under 18s and my ambition is that we can move towards zero cost travel for children and teenagers in 2025.” As passenger numbers on public transport increase, it is clear that these reductions are encouraging more people to choose sustainable modes of travel, with recent data indicating a nearly 15% increase in bus passenger numbers and an almost 8% increase in train passenger numbers since 2019. The funding for the maintenance and safety of the Irish road network is a central responsibility of the Department of Transport. Investment into the protection and renewal of the roads system remains a priority and will see €937m allocated in 2024. This allocation will continue to maximise the value of investment in the roads and

to ensure the safety of the roads system for all users. Funding will also be provided for the development of new roads projects at a cost of over €200m across the country. Currently, there are 10 national, regional and local road projects under or nearing construction, which further demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving the safety and connectivity of our roads. This year’s budget will see further investment in new public transport developments with approximately €220m for bus projects and €200m for rail across the country. This allocation will ensure the continued roll out of new and enhanced services across flagship projects such as BusConnects in the cities and new town services. Investment will be earmarked for the Connecting Ireland programme, which so far this year has delivered 105 new and enhanced services across rural Ireland.

Here’s what Budget 2024 will make possible: CHEAPER FARES Further reductions to the Young Adult Card giving 50% discounts on fares for 24 and 25 year olds on PSO and commercial services. This commitment has been secured for two years. Retention of 20% discount on public transport for all on PSO services. 90-minute ticket on PSO services for all users.

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Purchase of 101 double-deck electric buses for BusConnect programmes in other cities, for Cork, Galway and Limerick. Continued roll out of new and enhanced bus routes through Bus Connects, Connecting Ireland and town services. Progress the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme (CACR) inluding signalling upgrade on the track and double-tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton line.

WALKING AND CYCLING €360 million for walking and cycling infrastructure projects through the Active Travel and Greenways Programmes.

Completion of construction of a through-platform at Kent Station, as part the CACR project.

BUS PROJECTS Purchase of 70 new double-deck electric buses for Dublin and provision of depot facilities.

EMERGENCY TRANSPORT SERVICES An additional €4m has been allocated to deliver emergency transport service requirements for Ukrainian refugees.

Purchase of 101 new double-deck electric buses for outside Dublin, covering Limerick, Galway and Cork.

Electric Vehicles Supports & Infrastructure Roll-Out.

Funding for Core Bus Corridor procurement and network redesign for BusConnects Cork. RAIL ENHANCEMENT Installation of charging infrastructure at Drogheda train station in advance of the new battery-electric DART trains entering service on this line in 2025.

SUPPORTING REGIONAL AIRPORTS 2024 spending will also include almost €17 million in funding to support connectivity and balanced development for regional airports including Ireland West Airport Knock, Donegal and Kerry. ROAD SAFETY MEASURES €21m ring-fenced for road safety measures including improvements to dangerous junctions and to conduct a review of the driver testing curriculum.

Funding of €102m for the promotion of electric vehicles including grants and infrastructure measures to highlight the benefits of going electric and savings that can be made by the consumer.

Protection and renewal of the heavy rail network as well as bus/rail fleet renewals and station upgrades. DUBLIN Implementation of BusConnects Dublin, including purchase of new electric buses and procurement for core bus corridors. Commencement of procurement/ construction of the Clongriffin and Blackrock Core Bus Corridor, subject to planning permission. Movement to the next phase of Metrolink including the commencement of recruitment for key staff for project delivery as Metrolink enters the next phase of the planning cycle.

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This substantial investment will see further progress in making the public transport network cleaner and greener, including the purchase of 70 new electric doubledeck buses for Dublin and 101 electric double-deck buses for cities outside Dublin - covering Limerick, Galway and Cork. The electric charging infrastructure at Drogheda station, combined with 65 new batteryelectric trains which will start arriving in Ireland next year, will allow for a new DART service to start between Dublin city and Drogheda in 2025. All of these investments will encourage people to leave their private vehicles at home, to choose public transport journeys and be part of the effort to reach the national Climate Action Plan targets of reducing transport-emissions by 50% by 2030. Walking & Cycling Since 2020, hundreds of kilometres of new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure have been delivered across the country. This ambition has once again been guaranteed, with €360m allocated to walking and cycling infrastructure for 2024. Projects in this year’s budget include the Longford Town pedestrian and cycling project on the R198 and N63 and the Wolfe Tone Bridge in Galway among many others.

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Greenways will also benefit from this year’s budget with construction continuing on 10 projects across the country including Carlingford Lough, the Great Western Greenway in Mayo and construction is to begin on the South Kerry Greenway between Glenbeigh and Caherciveen. Funding of €21m has also been ring-fenced for road safety measures in response to the increased number of fatal road traffic collisions on Irish roads in recent times. €15m has been earmarked for road safety upgrades including improvements to junctions and other schemes such as the N20 Mahon Slip Extension in Cork. €6m in funding has also been secured for specific interventions including additional public awareness campaigns and to conduct a review and develop the driver testing curriculum. Minister Chambers commented: “I am pleased that Budget 2024 prioritises keeping people safe on our roads following a very worrying increase in road fatalities with many tragedies, involving young people in particular, shocking communities all over Ireland this year. This budget delivers focused investment in road safety with measures to develop road improvement projects like addressing dangerous junctions and to

strengthen Road Safety Authority awareness and communications campaigns”. The Minister pointed to the allocation of €937m for the protection and renewal of the national roads system. These initiatives are further complemented by the continued roll out of the Safe Routes to School Programme which will provide safer infrastructure in and around schools countrywide as well as continued funding of the €360m per year commitment to developing Active Travel and Greenways. €100m has been allocated to the Irish Coast Guard, including an extra €5m, for training volunteers and staff as they continue to provide world class search and rescue services, often in the most challenging of circumstances. 2023 saw funding of €17m for regional airports providing enhanced connectivity for people across the island and delivering more balanced regional development. In addition, in 2024, there will be continued support when the review of the Regional Airports Programme is concluded.

Greening the public transport fleet combined with sustainable journeys will make a considerable dent in target reductions by 2030.

Setanta Vehicle Sales We offer our customers tailored transport solutions in the form of new and used trucks, trailers, and light commercial vehicles. We listen to our customer’s needs and requirements. With that in mind, our designated in-house team of product engineers and experienced sales executives’ analysis and conclude solutions that offer maximum uptime and reduced total cost of ownership. As the distributor for Renault Trucks in Ireland, we are a leading player in sustainable mobility offering an array of electric vehicles from 3.1T to 26 coupled with high tech dealerships and highly qualiﬁed personal. We have the product range and resources to offer class-leading customer satisfaction.

Contact Sales on (01) 403 4555 or visit our website:

www.setantatrucks.ie

Excellence in Fleet Solutions Sustainability, Reliability & Innovation Award

Setanta Group is the main Importer of Renault Trucks in Ireland and has two wholly owned dealerships in Dublin North (Ballycoolin) and Dublin South (Long Mile Road). The company provides sales, parts and service for all Renault Trucks and commercial vehicles including the T, C, K, and D Range HGV and Master and Trafic vans.

SETANTA GROUP Alfred Barker - Setanta Group

throughout the pandemic to ensure supplies for its customers.

Since 2008 Setanta has grown its business from 10 employees to over 100 and in 2019, opened new state-of-the-art bespoke premises in Ballycoolin. The company has expanded the market share in Renault Trucks from 3% to over 12.5%.

Like many other businesses in recent years, Setanta has faced challenges. Starting the business during the recession, the firm proved its ability to buck the trend and grow market share despite the downturn in the market.

“We have seen many changes over the years, including the development of a full contract hire offer to our customers, servicing and repair contracts and extended warranty,” says Director Sharon Concarr. “The technology in the vehicles we sell now too, has undergone tremendous growth and changes to provide the safest, most comfortable, fuel-efficient and reliable commercial vehicles on the road. We are now moving into the alternative fuels era of change and can provide an offering in both gas-powered HGVs and battery electric vehicles across the range from Trafic (coming soon) and Master, right through the HGV range of vehicles including the D, C and T E-Tech models.”

Covid provided another challenge for the business but as a proud professional company, Setanta kept the nation running by maintaining its workshop opening hours, providing breakdown assistance and supply of parts to its customers throughout the pandemic. The firm was one of the first to introduce antigen testing for its staff to ensure their safety and the safety of its customers and was featured on an episode of Primetime in that regard during 2020.

“Brexit has also provided some hurdles, particularly in the used vehicle market and also in terms of being able to provide good service to our customers who operate both in Ireland and the UK,” Sharon explains. “With a dealership already situated in Belfast, Diamond Trucks, we moved forward to open a new dealership in Warrington under that dealer franchise. This provides cross-border symmetry and allows us to continue providing our high level of service and quality products to our customers. We also brought customs clearance in house and continue to provide this additional service for our dealerships and customers.”

Covid also brought supply shortages including component shortages for the vehicle industry in general. Setanta maintained a robust ordering policy

Setanta is keen to ensure its business remains current in an ever-evolving marketplace. The move to Electromobility in the vehicle sector is the next evolution for the transport

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industry. The firm will be bringing the Renault Trucks E-Tech range to market this year and anticipates that infrastructure will be the main concern for its customers. In collaboration with the 13 Renault Trucks dealer sites nationwide, Setanta is installing charging infrastructure for commercial vehicles to assist its customers and overcome any range anxiety. Setanta has several electric and gas-powered trucks and vans on the road and sees itself as partnering with customers to achieve a more sustainable future for the transport industry. Additionally, the firm has introduced many trailer brands to its product offering including Meiller Tipper Trainings, Kraker Walking Floor Trailers and D-Tec Skelly and Tanker Trailers. Setanta is the main distributor in Ireland for these brands and additionally the main distributor for D-Tec and Kraker in the UK and Northern Ireland. With these products, the firm aims to provide customers with their entire transport/haulage needs under one roof. In a packed business sector, Setanta works hard to stand out from the crowd as Sharon explains: “We offer the best service and the best quality products, but our dedication to our customers is the backbone of the business. Excellence in customer service is our number one priority. Ensuring our customer’s vehicles stay on the road is vital to their business and our own. We provide 24/7 breakdown assistance throughout Ireland for our customers along with complimentary courtesy vehicles when our customer’s vehicles are off the road. We recover

vehicles to our workshop from Ireland, the UK and even Europe to ensure the speediest resolutions possible and to minimise costs for our customers. We continuously train our staff to ensure the highest level of knowledge is available to our customers and maintain service standards across our sales, service and parts departments. “The right product, correctly specified to the customers’ needs and application of the vehicle/business, as well as quality aftersales service are key requirements for our customers and we strive to maintain the highest of standards in that regard. Uptime is also of utmost importance to our customers, and ensuring their vehicles operate for them when they need them is vital. We open early mornings, late evenings and Saturdays to allow our customers to service and maintain their vehicles at a time that suits them. “When it comes to personnel, our employees are the lifeblood of our business. We have been fortunate to attract talented and dedicated individuals to our team over the years. We pride ourselves on the loyalty of our staff to both Setanta and the Brands we sell.” Sharon says that several factors have helped in attracting and retaining staff members. “We offer attractive packages, career progression, continuous professional development, performance incentives, loyalty packages and an opportunity to be at the cutting edge of vehicle technology in Europe. “We are moving into a new chapter now also with Electromobility and it is exciting

for existing staff and newcomers to be at the start of this evolution. New products, new technology, new experiences and the new challenges they bring will keep us all interested in the future of the transport industry and we’d like to think people will want to be part of that change.” Setanta has ensured that the Renault Trucks product has been award-winning in Ireland. The firm has successfully endeared Renault Products to the Irish transport industry through dedication and customer focus. Its products have won several awards over the years at the National Fleet Awards Show, including Irish Truck of the Year for the Range T, Long Haul/Distribution Truck of the Year for the Range T, Fleet Truck of the Year for the Range and Irish Construction Truck of the Year for the Range K 8x4. Other significant awards include Irish Truck of the Year for the T High 520 6x2, Flagship Truck of the Year for the T High 520 6x2, Irish Green Commercial Truck of the Year (Electric Truck Category) for the D16 E-Tech, and Irish Green Commercial Truck of the Year (Natural Gas Category) for the D26 6x2 320 CNG. Looking to the future, Setanta hopes to grow its dealer network in strategic areas in Ireland to support its customers with plans to do the same in the UK and Northern Ireland. Sharon says she learned a great lesson in business and reminds herself of it frequently - there is always a solution - you just have to find it! www.setantatrucks.ie

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Coaches between Dublin City, Dublin Airport & Belfast Choose Dublin Express for: The fastest coach between Dublin City & Dublin Airport Premium transfers between Dublin City, Dublin Airport & Belfast

For more information or to book visit: dublinexpress.com

Dublin Express offers high-frequency passenger services between Dublin Airport and a range of locations within Dublin City, including the recently launched Dublin to Belfast route. The transport company is part of the National Express global passenger transport business with over 600 contracts on four continents, and nearly 900 million passenger journeys each year.

Excellence in Transportation Superior Passenger Services National & International

NATIONAL EXPRESS IRELAND The company has a fleet of 21 dedicated vehicles across three routes under the Dublin Express brand. They operate 22 hours per day, 364 days per year, delivering the fastest connection to and from Dublin City to Dublin Airport, and an inter-city Belfast to Dublin route. General Manager, Rory Fitzgerald, says: “Since our relaunch following COVID in August 2021, we’ve expanded our frequency to such an extent that we now depart every 10 minutes from Dublin Airport to the city centre. We carried 1.2 million passengers in 2022 and will exceed 2 million in 2023.” National Express Ireland’s modern fleet consists of a mix of Euro VI Mercedes Turismo, Volvo Jonckheeres and Caetano Levante 3 vehicles and boasts the most environmentally friendly vehicles on the road today. Commenting on the service, Rory says: “We offer a value for money, safety first, high customer service, friendly product. Our team of 27 customer service advisors are on duty at the airport or in the city seven days a week, over 17 hours per day, to assist with

our customers’ questions. The feedback received in surveys and online is a testimony to how great this service is.” What keeps the company ahead of the competition is its dedication to safety and customer comfort; quality vehicles wrapped in their distinctive navy blue branding, and carefully chosen stops. Rory says: “We are also extremely proud not to have cancelled one service since we launched in August 2021.” One of the challenges the company faces is to make the brand and route known, not only to locals but also to tourists on a daily basis. To combat this, National Express Ireland has struck up many fruitful partnerships with similar businesses and continues to invest heavily in marketing. Speaking of one such partnership, Rory explains: “We are currently in a pilot phase of launching a new product with Irish Rail which will allow a customer to buy a train ticket to Heuston Station and add on a Dublin Express ticket, allowing them to continue their journey to Dublin Airport with us.”

He continues: “We also hope to launch another product with Ryanair, allowing customers to book their transport to and from Dublin Airport at the same time as they are booking their flight.” Rory knows that patience is required to ensure a route becomes a success and that frequency plays a huge part in building trust. “By having such a high frequency, customers come to trust that a coach will show up and get them to the airport at a time that suits them,” he says. National Express Ireland knows that building trust takes time and as society moves towards more sustainable ways of living, taking a coach to the airport is not only good value for money but could also take up to 35 cars off the road. Thinking about the future, Rory says, “It’s extremely bright as we look to expand our offering in 2024 and beyond, by adding new routes throughout Dublin and its surrounding areas, plus also looking to add to our intercity network beyond Belfast.”

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Ireland’s Premier Coach Hire Company +353 (0) 1 8473487 info@nolancoaches.ie www.nolancoaches.ie

Nolan Coaches provides a full range of coach and bus services in Dublin, Leinster and Ireland. Services include school transport, local and national tours, sporting events, work shuttles, conferences, and airport transfers.

Excellence in Transport Corporate Bus & Coach Hire Support Services Award

NOLAN COACHES Jimmy Nolan founded the company 82 years ago and over the past ten years, Nolan Coaches has expanded and grown from having five employees and four coaches in 2010 to having 32 full-time employees, parttime staff and five office staff. The company has continuously evolved and embraced the changing world of technology from a relatively early stage. Nolan Coaches now operates 24 units varying in size, from 12-seaters to 76-seater double-deckers. The company enjoys an annual turnover of more than 2.5 million euro. Over the past ten years, the main challenges have been the collapse of the global economy and the Coronavirus pandemic. With this in mind, Nolan Coaches extended their services to large, well-established companies. The company now provides clients with shuttle services for their staff, offering safe and comfortable transport while reducing the carbon footprint of the companies they provide services to. Nolan Coaches remains relevant by regularly consulting with clients, listening to their needs and requirements, and constantly upgrading services.

According to General Manager Garret O’Toole, the biggest surprise of the business market to date has been the resilience of the human spirit and the ability and desire to continue in the face of adversity. “The determination of larger companies to protect their staff during the pandemic has been inspiring. By utilising companies such as Nolan to provide bespoke and safe modes of transport to/from the workplace, they ensure their staff remained safe.” Nolan Coaches team is available to discuss any issues 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Buses and coaches are immaculately kept, and drivers present themselves in uniform daily to uphold the company’s professional standards. Nolan is also very flexible regarding price, with a view to the bigger picture when discussing rates and terms with customers. “Nolan Coaches strives to deliver slightly more than promised and we never take a client for granted,” continues Garret. “Every job is the most important one we’ve ever done.”

communicating with customers about current and future requirements. The Nolan philosophy has always been that you’re only as strong as the weakest link. Staff are divided into structured and well organised teams. Each team is motivated by bonus/ holiday incentives and financially rewarded. “We try to maintain a balanced approach to work/life and each staff member is continuously motivated and made to feel that they are an important and valued member of a successful team,” Garrett adds. Nolan Coaches has expanded its business 13-fold and has successfully acquired the custom of large, blue-chip companies while maintaining its core business. This has enabled the firm to grow by combining the old with the new and maximising its units throughout a 24-hour day. Looking ahead, Nolan has many new projects in the pipeline and the future looks bright for this growing company.

The company identifies every client’s needs by using close and considered observation and, most importantly, by regularly

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PENROSE TRANSPORT IS A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS ESTABLISHED SINCE 2002. OUR FLEET CONSISTS OF OVER 20 TRUCKS RANGING FROM, ARTICULATED TRUCKS TO RIGID, HIAB AND CURTAIN SIDE TRUCKS.

ALL OUR DRIVERS ARE FULLY QUALIFIED IN ALL ASPECTS OF OUR BUSINESS ENSURING A GUARANTEED QUALITY SERVICE THAT IS HARD TO BEAT. WE HAVE BEEN SUPPLYING TRUCKS AND DRIVER TO BUILDERS MERCHANTS SINCE 2002 ENSURING ONLY THE BEST TRUCKS AND DRIVERS REPRESENT THEIR BUSINESSES.

www.penrosetransport.ie

Based in Artane, County Dublin, Penrose Transport is a family-run business and leading specialist in crane hire and the moving of building materials, containers, teleporters and diggers.

Excellence in Transportation Haulage & Transport Services Award

PENROSE TRANSPORT

Founded in 2001 by Managing Director Wayne Penrose, Penrose Transport has grown steadily throughout the last 22 years to become a leader in haulage with a fleet of over 20. Originally a plumber by trade, transportation was not an industry that Wayne initially contemplated. "A friend of mine had suggested I get into it, and I looked at it and went out on my own in 2001," Wayne recalls. "It went well, and I was up to five lorries in 2008. The recession then hit, but by 2014 things started to turn around and we went on to the next level, going up to over 20 trucks," he adds. Wayne continues, “Right now we’ve 25 staff employed and you could say that we can do anything in the haulage industry, with a lot of work ongoing for builders around Dublin.” The company offers crane hire vehicles from 7.5 up to 32 tonnes. Their trucks can transport 20, 30 and 40 ft containers, which can carry up to 30 tonnes in weight and are

ideal for scaffolding companies, builder providers and stone merchants.

issue, we can deal with it and we've always got the truck here."

Penrose Transport's curtain-side vehicles range from van-type to 18-ton trucks, including a Palfinger truck-mounted crane capable of lifting 13 tons. The company can source larger truck-mounted cranes if a customer requires them. In addition, they can provide rental of a tractor unit and driver to allow customers to transport goods to their chosen location.

The company has clearly found a winning formula, and Wayne puts this down to his team's pride in offering a punctual, flexible service of consistently high quality. All Penrose Transport's drivers are fully qualified in all aspects of their business, ensuring a guaranteed quality service that is hard to beat.

Many of Wayne's customers like to utilise their own branding and the company is happy to not only provide the driver and vehicle but also display the customer's logo on the side of the truck to give an extra professional edge to the service. "We pride ourselves in using well-maintained vehicles and updating our fleet to more modern vehicles," Wayne adds. "I have a great team of lads with me and the fleet is maintained very well. Any time there's an

This attention to detail and commitment to providing the best service possible has resulted in most business the company gets being repeat business from satisfied customers. Wayne is optimistic that the next year will continue to build on the success of previous ones, saying, “We’ll be hoping for more of the same and keep on growing the business like it has been over the last five or six years.”

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Kearney’s of Cork is now ﬁrmly established as a leading Coach and Bus Hire company and tour operator throughout Ireland. With an impressive ﬂeet of vehicles which includes luxury coaches, modern buses and executive mini-coaches of various sizes, styles and capacities. Address: Units 3 & 4, Waterfront Business Park, Little Island, Cork

Tel: +353 21 423 2252 Email: info@kearneysofcork.com

www.kearneysofcork.com @kearneysofcork

As a leading Coach and Bus Hire company and tour operator throughout Ireland, Kearney’s Coaches provides professional coach hire services to tour operators, VIP and corporate companies, transfer services and shuttle bus companies.

Excellence in Travel & Transportation Luxury & Executive Coach Hire

KEARNEY’S COACHES Founded in 1968 by Anthony Kearney (aka TK) with a single mini-bus, Kearney’s Coaches has grown over five decades to become one of the most trusted luxurious and executive style coach hire providers in Ireland.

climate control and air conditioning. The executive touring coach caters to parties between 49 and 54 and features toilets and washrooms, an onboard refrigerator, reclining seats with built-in USB, TV monitors and WiFi.

Anthony worked hard throughout the 1970s and 1980s to expand the business from one vehicle to a large fleet of coaches, buses and mini-buses. His son, Roy, took over the company in 1997 and continued to expand the fleet until a major investment injection in 2006 allowed Kearney's to move its headquarters to Little Island, Cork, where the new depot included state-of-the-art workshops, drivethrough washes for coaches and vehicles of all sizes, warehouses, yard storage and bigger office space.

A popular choice for wedding parties and corporate events is Kearney's vintage coach. Its distinctive blue and white livery and wood dashboard make it a classic that adds pizzazz to an event.

Today Kearney's Coaches operates a fleet of over 150 vehicles that includes luxury coaches, modern buses and executive mini-coaches of various sizes, styles and capacities to fulfil the needs of every type of client. Vehicles include Range Rover Vogues for smaller VIP travel, and Mercedes Turas coaches for parties up to 33, boasting full leather upholstery, USB charging ports, USB and DVD facilities,

The company doesn't just provide the vehicle; it can also provide the knowledge on tours and day trips. Roy explains, "We plan and organise journeys for groups and individuals, and our cooperation with clients is based on confidence. Kearney's Coaches is an excellent choice for people who want to visit and experience historical landmarks and exciting destinations throughout Ireland." He adds, "A professional approach and the best user experience are our primary goals." The company is also the largest school bus operator in the Cork Area, providing weekly transport to and from nearly 80 schools for Bus Eireann. It is contracted by numerous

schools in the Cork and County area to provide transportation for their school needs. Roy is passionate about progress and as a result, the company is continually expanding and innovating. This year it has invested in new livery for its fleet and introduced uniforms for its drivers. Roy has also invested time in digital initiatives, including a new-look website and social media presence. "We have a very active Facebook page, whereby we encourage our drivers to send in pictures of our fleet when out and about on tours, outings, etc," Roy explains. The industry is not without its challenges, and Kearney's Coaches is no exception. Roy says, "As one of Ireland's largest and leading coach hire companies we struggle to find new drivers that are committed; they are few and far between, but driver shortage is a national problem all coach companies are faced with." Roy summarises his company in a nutshell, “We have a reliable fleet, well-trained drivers, good practice codex, regular training and all of our drivers are Garda vetted and proven by experience.

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Egis is an international player active in the consulting, construction engineering and mobility service sectors. We design and operate intelligent infrastructure and buildings capable of responding to the climate emergency and helping to achieve more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development. Through its wide-ranging fields of activity, Egis is a central player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world.

18 000 EMPLOYEES

€1.16 Bn TURNOVER

ACTIVITY OUTSIDE FRANCE

Excellence in Public Sector Infrastructure & Sustainability Services Support Award

Egis is a leading global consulting, construction, engineering and operating firm working side by side with clients across every aspect of transport and the built environment to build a more balanced, sustainable and resilient world.

EGIS Since 1994, Egis has designed, operated and maintained railway, roads, and mobility services across Ireland. The firm is proud to operate a network of 470 plus kilometres of motorway and 5.8km of tunnels, including the Dublin Tunnel – one of Europe’s longest urban motorway tunnels. With offices nationwide, its teams manage projects during the whole life cycle, meeting the highest safety, reliability, innovation and sustainability standards. Egis’s Irish team has grown from the early days of 70 to over 500 direct and indirect employees working across different sectors of its business, supported by an international presence of more than 18,000 staff across more than 100 countries. As one of the world’s leading engineering and operating firms, Egis holds itself responsible for today’s biggest challenges: fighting climate change; the digital transition, and meeting the needs of growing populations. Steven Preece, Chief Executive of Egis Ireland explains: “As we know, the world needs to address global warming. As we look to the future, Egis aims to be carbon neutral by 2050. Since 2018 we have already cut carbon emissions by 17% across our road networks and use renewable energy across 50% of our operations. “Much of this has been done by investing in our talented team of diverse and imaginative

people who care deeply about using their creativity and expertise to design smart, green infrastructure, transport and buildings that will help shape a better future for communities in Ireland and all around the globe.”

one of the firm’s main achievements has been to develop and retain a long, trusting and collaborative relationship with its clients, partners and supply chain in Ireland to deliver the best in class services and advice.

Egis’s customer service philosophy is clear be attentive to clients’ needs. The firm works closely within a collaborative partnership to understand clients’ concerns, address their toughest challenges and solve these with the full range of its technical expertise.

A major project for Egis continues to be the Dublin Tunnel - one of the largest projects of infrastructure within the state, ensuring 24/7 operations and allowing the Dublin City economy to flow without interruption.

Egis understands the importance of retaining and motivating excellent staff. “Our people are key to delivering the sustainable future we all wish to create. They are the main ambassadors of our company values; responsible, people-first and creative and we work together to bring them to life on all our global projects”, says Steven. “We consistently invest in our people’s growth by harnessing a safe environment for creativity and innovation. Opportunities for self-development and career progression are available in the broader group, ensuring our teams know they can build their future with us.”

Egis is ready for challenges by constantly developing and deploying worldwide solutions as Ireland continues with its commitment to public transport and its goal of reducing its carbon footprint. Every project Egis addresses is equally as important as the other. Ireland is recognised as a country of importance to Egis and one where the firm sees the opportunity to grow its presence organically and through collaborative partnerships, particularly within areas providing environmental and social improvement and development. With this in mind, Egis intends to offer its expertise using its portfolio supported by its network of partners.

Egis was the first company in Ireland to hold all five internationally recognised ISO management system standards across quality, environmental, health & safety, information security, to asset management. In addition,

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Zellwood Ltd is one of the countries leading contract management and logistics solutions providers. Established in 1995 Zellwood Ltd is a family run Business, located in North County Dublin, specialising in services for Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

FLEET TRACKING All our vehicles are fitted with a satellite tracking system, this give us a full history of each vehicle at any given time, this enables us and the customer to pinpoint any vehicle and its status at any time. The tracking system also enables us to retrieve historical delivery times.

TEMPERATURE TRACKING All our refrigerated Trailers/Rigids fitted with state of the art temperature tracking systems. This enables real time information about the trailer to be available to the customer and ourselves. The tracking system also enables us to retrieve historical temperatures at point of delivery.

Unit 18 Turvey Business Centre, Turvey Avenue, Donabate, CO Dublin tel: +353 (0)1 8900315 fax: +353 (0)1 8900329 email: info@zellwood.ie

www.zellwood.ie

One of the country’s leading contract management and logistics solutions providers, Zellwood Ltd is a family-run business with 28 years specialising in supplying services for the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Contract Management & Logistics Specialists Firm of the Year

ZELLWOOD LTD Established in 1995 in North County, Dublin by Mark and William Flanagan, Zellwood Ltd has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading retail temperature controlled distribution solutions providers. Over the years, Zellwood has developed a one-stopshop capability with the main objective to provide a complete distribution solution for each customer. “We believe that the transport industry is constantly evolving, and we have endeavoured to adapt our services to meet all our customers’ requirements,” explains William. With a small base of blue-chip customers which the company has grown with, Mark notes: “We don’t just provide the wheels, we provide the management service to assist with the growth of our customers. That in turn increases our sales and productivity.” Zellwood believes in forward momentum. William acknowledges: “We were first in retail to have electric rigid trucks working alongside one of our customers, Lidl. The company was also one of the first in retail to use Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel, which resulted in a 99% reduction in C02 emissions. We are constantly updating our fleet to ensure we have the best in class fuel efficiency, thus lowering our carbon

footprint,” something Mark believes is of great importance to the company. Operating in today’s economic climate presents particular challenges. “Our biggest challenge today is staff recruitment as there is a lack of competent drivers and no young drivers coming forward to take up positions,” says William. He believes this is due to the cost of obtaining a HGV licence and salary levels within the industry, noting that: “Something needs to be done to promote driving positions in the industry.” One surprise to the Flanagans has been the change in attitude towards drivers since the pandemic. Mark says, “During COVID, drivers were treated like superheroes and now this doesn’t seem to be the case.” It is his feeling that this, combined with unsociable hours, makes driving less attractive to young people. Zellwood Ltd works hard to differentiate itself from its competitors. “We provide a bespoke service to each individual customer as per their individual needs,” remarks William. “We are a hands-on company that takes a personal approach. We have close relationships with our customers and pride ourselves on working with them to provide the best transport service for their company.”

The company solicits customer feedback on service levels and identifies weaknesses to improve upon. Mark expands, “We see how other companies deal with customer service and take any ideas we feel can benefit our business. We also meet regularly with our customers to ensure we deal with any issues on a day-to-day basis.” The company places as much value on employees as customers because, as Mark explains: “It simply makes management smoother, creates a better atmosphere and helps maintain a motivated and productive workforce.” Looking to the future, Zellwood is introducing a new business app that covers tracking, compliance and drivers’ daily plans and the company is currently in the process of a large fleet replenishment with specifications based solely on safety and fuel efficiency. Giving some final thoughts on his biggest lessons in business, William says, “Being competent in your fleet and having an understanding of the drivers’ day to day work. I drove for many years, doing the same routes and deliveries that our drivers do, which aids communication with our staff and helps gain respect.”

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+353 87 339 1790

+353 87 746 9224

info@midlandslining.ie

Midlands lining road and car park markings company

Ireland’s Most Versatile Road And Car Park Markings Company. Highly trained and experienced work crews can provide a nationwide service to all our clients.

Our Services

Road Markings Design

Anti Skid Surfacing

Car Park Markings

Warehouse Markings

Line Markings Removal

Coloured Surfaces

School Markings

Factory Floor Markings

For more information contact;

www.midlandslining.ie

Midlands Lining is one of the most established road marking companies in Ireland, with 13 years of experience in the road maintenance industry, offering a wide range of services from line application to line removal, as well as the installation of road markings.

Excellence in Public Sector Road Marking & Maintenance Support Services Award

MIDLANDS LINING LTD Spotting a gap in the market for a professionally run, road marking company in Ireland, Evaldas Galinaitis leveraged his extensive experience in the line marking and civil sector to create Midlands Lining. Services offered by the company include application of car park markings; warehouse and factory markings; coloured surfacing and anti skid surfacing and road markings and line removal. With crews on call 24 hours per day, seven days per week and 365 days per year, Midlands Lining ensures that all jobs are finished to schedule. A core area of operations for the company is the application of coloured surfaces to roads and other areas. Evaldas talks about the use of coloured markings: “They help grab the driver´s or pedestrian’s attention and integrate well with signs already in place on the road side,” says Evaldas, “Coloured surfaces have become more popular and you will see these surfaces more frequently throughout Ireland. The key reasons are for safety and informative purposes.” Another key area for Midlands Lining is the removal of old or damaged road markings and the application of new ones: “Our team is aware that there are a few important factors

to consider before any removal of markings is carried out,” he says. “It is always advisable to check the quality of the road’s surface and it must be determined whether the markings are temporary or permanent,” Evaldad explains. His team then advises on the safest method of removal, ensuring the surface is not damaged in the process. Once old road markings are safely removed, new ones can be applied. Evaldas explains the different uses of road markings.: “White lines are used to align traffic in driving lanes, car parks and on highways. Coloured surfaces, signs and symbols grab road users’ attention much faster than regular white lines,” adding “coloured surfaces are also used to highlight areas such as bus lanes, cycle lanes, speed ramps and specialised car spaces.”

risk of accidents, increasing safety standards whilst ensuring operations run smoothly. “We pride ourselves on ensuring that safety comes first,” Evaldas says. “Our design team’s main focus is to get the best out of any facility. We find the most suitable and effective strategy for the floor to ensure operations run efficiently. We cater for all size factories and warehouses and offer a wide variety of colours.” In the case of car park markings, Evaldas is proud to say, “We are perfectionists when it comes down to precise, clear markings. Our main focus is to get the best out of any size project, working with the layout to suit traffic flow.”

“Our team takes pride in having worked on all major roads in counties such as Dublin, Galway, Cork, Mayo and Limerick,” says Evaldas.

Midlands Lining anti-skid surfacing has great benefits for both vehicular road users and pedestrians, giving a visual and audible caution for an assortment of risks, encouraging lower speeds and limiting sliding and skidding in hazardous conditions.

Markings on the floors of factories and warehouses are particularly important for ensuring the safest environment for the employees. The use of bright colours is particularly effective in highlighting high risk and hazardous areas and to minimise the

Evaldas says, “It can withstand any amount of traffic, weather conditions, and any other stress like fuels. Every surface has low toxic levels and is environmentally friendly.”

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KNOWLEDGE MOTORWAYCARE leverages its extensive knowledge gained over 20 years in motorway infrastructure networks to enhance its product oﬀerings.

PROJECTS At MOTORWAYCARE the team take great pride in our association with the building of our motorway infrastructure network.

SERVICES MOTORWAYCARE utilises its extensive experience gained over 20 years in motorway infrastructure networks to enhance its product oﬀerings.

MOTORWAYCARE, UNIT 6, Tashinny Court, Church View, Main Street Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath. E: JJ@motorwaycare.com T: 086 242 9888

For more information visit:

WWW.MOTORWAYCARE.COM

MOTORWAYCARE is Ireland’s leading provider of safety barriers, parapets and noise barriers. The firm provides and carries out installations of these products nationwide, along with developing bespoke safety barrier systems through testing and simulations where solutions are required at the interface of safety barrier, parapet and noise barrier systems.

Excellence in Road Services State-of-the-Art Motorway Systems

MOTORWAYCARE MOTORWAYCARE was established in 2012 by JJ Doherty and Damien Torsney, initially with two installers. Since then, the company has grown exponentially, now employing approximately 25-30 installers supported by a management team of six. The firm is the go-to provider for TII, local authorities and main civil engineering contractors. MOTORWAYCARE is an enhanced service that provides training and full technical assistance to allow contractors and motorway maintenance providers to place all essential products onto the motorway network from their own resources. Recognising that we are now living in an era where we need to be ‘better, cheaper and faster’, MOTORWAYCARE has been specifically tailored to provide all products and services in line with these requirements. Like many businesses throughout Ireland, MOTORWAYCARE experienced challenges in recent years, as Principle & Managing Director J.J. Doherty explains: “2012 was a pretty dull time in Ireland. We were

still dealing with the impact of the Celtic Tiger, such as reduced road building and maintenance budgets, credit facilities and qualified labour (as they were continuing to leave the country). We overcame these obstacles by offering additional services and full turnkey solutions. We also copperfastened trusting relationships with suppliers and contractors, which helped ease the way.” Keen to remain relevant in an evolving marketplace, MOTORWAYCARE is continually innovating and training and strives to maintain close contact with customers and provide and deliver excellent service. This attitude has guaranteed continual support from key clients despite market challenges. MOTORWAYCARE maintains a close working relationship with customers not only to complete work effectively but also to provide a high standard of after-sales service should it be required, in other words, assisting in every way to assist clients in achieving their goals.

MOTORWAYCARE staff play an essential role in the business’s success as JJ explains: “Key staff members are the fuel that drives the business forward to success. It’s important to pay staff well, reward their efforts and make them feel appreciated and part of everything you do.” MOTORWAYCARE is currently undertaking some key projects which include two of the largest road projects in Ireland, Dunkettle Interchange (J. Sisk & Sons) and N22 Macroom (Jons/JCL), both large and challenging projects requiring highly trained personnel and innovative product solutions. The company’s vision is to leverage its knowledge and build on its experience to create a comprehensive and competitive business, ensuring that it goes not just one but many steps further to provide product, service, knowledge, and training to partners, suppliers and contractors alike.

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Total Highway Maintenance is a building and maintenance company, which employs over 200 people between Ireland and the UK. The company has a number of different divisions including: • Civil’s Division • Poling Division • Gully/Desilt Department • Trafﬁc Management/Street works Division • Fibre Installation, termination & testing - both U/G & O/H

For more information please call: (056) 776 7410 or email hr@totalhighways.com

Total Highway Maintenance Limited is a construction company based in Kilkenny City. THM was established in 2010 with a small team of employees which has grown significantly over the past 13 years. The company has a civils and building division and traffic management division.

Excellence in Public Sector Motorway Maintenance Services Support Award

THM Working from its headquarters in Kilkenny City, the company’s ethos is to deliver a service beyond expectation, achieved through a constant desire to anticipate and fulﬁl evolving customer needs.

The company delivers extraordinary customer service and takes great pride in being honest about all products and services. The ﬁrm believes in working to the highest standard possible and ﬁxing any issues that may arise.

Like all other companies, THM has encountered challenges on its journey. Rather than running away from them, THM faced all challenges head- on and moved forward in a positive direction. THM has spent many years trying to be proactive rather than reactive. To achieve this, THM makes it a priority to plan ahead, consult with others, problem-solve, get feedback from clients, and learn from its mistakes.

THM works with numerous government bodies such as Irish Rail, Bus Eireann, TU Dublin and various local authorities. It works closely with suppliers to ensure the highest quality of materials are used in their works. The ﬁrm’s continued growth is achieved through training and keeping up to date with new technology available in the industry and it works hard to stay ahead of the competition.

The THM Traffc Management division has grown and developed fast over recent years and in line with new technology and other developments, the company is quick to integrate these into how it works. THM works with engineering ﬁrms and many local authorities providing the highest quality traffc management services.

Health and safety are paramount, and THM works tirelessly to create a culture within the company where this is prioritised. The company is committed to the continuous improvement of safety standards and performance.

Services is a public Lighting company also based in Kilkenny City. KLS has been awarded the Public Lighting Energy Effciency Project for the Eastern Region which will see nine local authorities and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) invest €50 million in upgrading their public lighting to Light Emitting Diode LED technology. PLEEP Eastern Region will upgrade approximately 73,500 public lights across Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary, Westmeath, and Wicklow County Councils, as well as Transport Infrastructure Ireland. Both companies are looking for more candidates to join the team with the following positions available - senior quantity surveyors, junior quantity surveyors, health & safety assistants, junior health & safety assistants, groundworkers/general operatives, truck drivers and fully qualiﬁed electricians.

THM also works with Killaree Lighting Services Limited (KLS). Killaree Lighting

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3 0 Y EA R S IN B U S IN ES S ROAD PLANING TACK COAT SPRAYING ROAD REINSTATEMENT IRONWORKS WHITE LINING SERVICES KERBING GROUNDWORKS CARPARKS DRIVEWAYS ASPHALT WORKS

041 9823674

info@blacktop.ie

WWW.BLACKTOP.IE

Excellence in Construction Asphalt Specialists Celebrating 30 Years

Blacktop Tarmacadam Co Ltd, which is now 30 years in business, specialise in designing, layout and supplying Asphalt products for roads, car parks and driveways. Boasting a wide portfolio of clients, the company is recognised as one of Ireland’s leading tarmac contractors.

BLACKTOP TARMACADAM Blacktop Tarmacadam is a family-run business established in 1993. Based in Duleek, county Meath, the company is run by Kevin Bissett, Managing Director and the Bissett family, with 35 employees in total. “While some of the personnel may have changed, we’re still very much a familyrun operation,” Kevin explains. “We pride ourselves on our quality, service and professional, highly skilled staff who range from plant operators to administration. Over the years, we have completed thousands of roads, car parks, footpaths and driveways, and we continue to go from strength to strength.” As a subcontractor for Lagan Asphalt, now part of the Breedon Group, Blacktop Tarmacadam has carried out works for many local authorities and large-scale clients throughout Ireland since its inception. In addition to road works, the company also specialise in smaller projects such as car parks, housing estates, industrial units and private driveways. No job is too big or too small, with a complete service provided from start to finish, including white lining. KN Circet, Richard Nolan Civil Engineering and Actavo are but a few of Blacktop Tarmacadam’s many clients. The county Meath-based

contractor carried out repair works to roads where fibre optic cable was laid between Dublin and Amazon’s new data centre in Drogheda. Blacktop is also doing weekend repairs to streets and footpaths in Dublin city centre where fibre optic cables have been laid. Last year, this tarmac specialist completed works on a new car park for Nature’s Best in Drogheda and laid SMA in the new Duleek Bellewstown & District Community Facility for all the community to enjoy! Road surfacing, car parks, groundworks, driveways, iron works, white lining services and planning works are Blacktop Tarmacadam’s speciality. As experienced road makers, this family business has completed work on national, secondary and urban road resurfacing and pavement contracts. Kevin explains that tarmacadam surfacing for roads, driveways and car parks is being phased out and replaced with Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA), which offers superior durability and resistance to deformation. Blacktop Tarmacadam also specialise in Bitumen spraying, a process that involves the spraying of bituminous emulsion to bind the wearing course to the base course layer or to bind new and old material when overlaying.

The company’s fleet of Bitumen sprayers is available for work nationally and it has carried out works from large road construction companies to county council and NRA specifications. The M50 and the Castleblayney Bypass are just two major road projects Blacktop has been associated with. The Bissett’s run a top-class fleet of tankers and tippers, nine pavers of various sizes, and 18 rollers with most tankers and tippers being DAF. Kevin is concerned about rising costs which have been caused by a combination of the pandemic, Brexit and the conflict in Ukraine. “The massive increase in the price of crude oil has been a double whammy for us. As well as costing more to transport it and run our fleet, the bitumen comes from crude oil. It has slowed things down, but hopefully, the situation will improve soon.” Committed to quality and complete customer satisfaction, Kevin would like to thank his customers and suppliers for their continued support and his staff for their hard work, dedication and expertise.

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www.highwaymarkings.ie

Enﬁeld, County Meath & Charlestown, County Mayo T: +353 (0) 46 9541300

Excellence in Public Sector Road Maintenance & Ancillary Services Services Support Award

As one of the leading independently owned providers to the Irish road maintenance industry, Highway Markings enjoys a reputation as an industry leader within their field.

HIGHWAY MARKINGS Founded in 1980, Highway Markings specialises in the application of temporary and permanent road markings and road studs. Over time, a wide range of ancillary services and products have been incorporated, giving the company a unique ability and expertise to offer clients a totally integrated package. Highway Markings have all the necessary resources readily available to carry out all aspects of temporary and permanent road markings road studs, line removal, surface retexturing, joint sealing, pothole repairs and static or mobile traffic management on all categories of road. Managing Director, Daniel J. Murphy, says: “Our reputation within our field is one which we and our clients hold in high esteem, and it is our priority to continue to excel when it comes to safety, service, quality and innovation. “We are constantly looking to international markets for new products and processes which can be introduced into our repertoire, to allow us to stay one step ahead of the field in delivering a top-class service and products to our valued clients,” he adds.

The company is headquartered in Enfield, County Meath just off the M4 and also has a Western Depot in Charlestown, County Mayo close to both the N5 and N17. The choice in location results in Highway Markings being strategically placed to service the East and West coasts of Ireland and all areas in between. Highway Markings is fully accredited to ISO 9001:2008 and OHSAS 18001–2007 and is committed to providing a quality service to the highest standards. It is of paramount importance to the company to ensure that all tasks are carried out with a focus on the health, safety and welfare of their employees and of the general public. Highway Markings is proud to offer joint sealing and surface repairs using Rhinophalt, Ultra Screed, Ultra-band and Proscreed solutions, and surface applied or inset studs for use on all major roads, where a bright durable road/lane delineation product is required.

Signs (VMS), including solar-powered models, as well as mobile and static closure signs and traffic management design. The company extends its offerings to the aviation industry where a particular problem occurs where landing aircraft deposit rubber on the runways. Rubber deposits lead to reduced friction and inadequate tyre contact, which, if left unchecked, can become a safety issue leading to runways being taken offline, thereby impacting the efficiency of airport operations. Highway Markings employs 36,000psi (2,500bar) ultra high-pressure water jetting technology to remove the deposits in a time-efficient and environmentally friendly way. “Our Depots are set up with fully equipped workshops, ensuring that all repairs are carried out in-house to eliminate any downtime and disruption to our clients,” says Daniel Murphy.

An important area of service is traffic management, with Highway Markings’ ability to offer mobile and static Variable Message

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EXCELLENCE IN Education Academic excellence is in Ireland’s DNA. Our long-standing reputation for high quality education is built on the solid foundation of commitment to excellence. Today we have one of the best education systems in the world and an internationally renowned reputation for academic quality. The Irish Government invests over €782 million annually in research in Ireland’s higher education institutions. The impact of this funding is that Ireland’s higher education institutions now lead the world in an increasing number of fields. Irish universities are in the top 1% of research institutions internationally in terms of research impact

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in 19 fields, spanning natural sciences, social sciences and the humanities. This creates a unique opportunity for undergraduate and post-graduate students to join research programmes driving innovation and changing lives worldwide.

The €20 million funding is the first tranche of an overall additional €60 million investment announced as part of Budget 2024 measures designed to assist schools with increased day-to-day running costs such as heating and electricity.

Budget 2024 Budget 2024 seeks to enhance our educational offerings from the ground up. Minister for Education, Norma Foley TD announced that recognised primary and post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme will benefit from €20 million in additional capitation funding to be delivered during the mid-term break.

In addition, permanent core funding of €21 million announced in Budget 2024 is supporting a permanent restoration of funding for all recognised primary and post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme. This will bring the basic rate of capitation to €200 per student in primary schools and to €345 in post-primary schools.

Budget 2024 in numbers €10.5

2024 Budget of the Department of Education – continuing investment in our education system.

c.212,000

Post-Primary students at Junior Cycle to get free school books and classroom resources, which will help families with the cost of accessing education.

744

Additional special education teachers in the system in 2024 working in special classes and special schools, supporting children with special educational needs.

21,584

Special needs assistants in the education system in 2024, an increase of 1,216 on 2023

500 school building projects

Progress 300 school building projects at construction and a further 200 projects to proceed to construction during 2024 / early 2025.

Over €80 million

Permanent restoration of capitation funding for schools along with additional temporary funds in cost of living supports.

Cost of Living

Provide temporary additional funding to support increased running costs for primary and post-primary schools, a reduced fee on school transport and continue to waive the state examination entry fee.

A total of €21m full year costs is being provided for a permanent restoration of funding for schools, bringing the basic rate of capitation to €200 per student in primary schools and to €345 in post primary schools. The Minister was keen to secure additional support for schools to assist them in the face of inflationary pressures with rising day-today running costs. "This significant funding for schools comes at a key juncture in the school year, as we enter into the winter months when costs such as heating and electricity can be felt more acutely,” said Foley.

post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme.

To ensure continuity of support in this area, a further €40 million will be delivered to schools in 2024. This is in addition to €21 million in permanent core funding announced in Budget 2024, which supports a permanent restoration of funding for all primary and

School transport will also receive €92 million in additional funding to provide additional places for children with special educational needs, increased bus contractor costs and a continued reduction in school transport fees.

Budget Summary The budget will extend free schoolbooks to second level students up to Junior Cycle to more than 210,000 students in schools in the so-called free scheme. It is estimated to be worth just over €310 per student.

More schools are also set to benefit from the hot meals scheme, which will be rolled out to another 900 primary schools from next April. The much-criticised fee for State exams is also being waived for another year. This waiver means that the usual fee of €116 for the Leaving Cert exams and €109 for the Junior Cert exams will not have to be paid by students. In special education, an additional 1,216 special needs assistants and 744 additional special educational needs teachers will be hired in classrooms, providing for 2,700 new places for children with special educational

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needs. An additional €11 million is allocated for special schools catering for children with special educational needs will remove the threshold for the appointment of an administrative deputy principal and provide for a further 100 teaching posts. There will also be €20 million in funding for an enhanced summer programme totalling €40 million for summer 2024. For the second year running the contribution fee for college has been reduced by €1,000 for 94,000 eligible undergraduates. If students' household income is less than €100,000, they are eligible for a further €500 reduction in fees, meaning the college fee will be halved to €1,500. There will also be a removal of fees for part time undergraduate students in universities and the removal of all remaining PLC (post leaving certificate) fees.

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The Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) broadly welcomed the budget. It particularly welcomes the provision of €4m in 2024 for the restoration of posts of responsibility in schools from September 2024 and the funding of €5m for the continuation of the pilot counselling services to continue for another year. It was critical however of one key issue, saying that while some of the supports are welcome, the Government “missed an open goal” by failing to tackle classroom sizes.

The total budget for the Department of Education in 2024 will be €10.467 billion. Since 2020, funding for school-level education has increased by around €1.8 billion, (20%). Budget 2024 provides an increase of €420 million in core funding, an increase of 4.6%, and builds on significant increases in recent budgets.

PAT Business School is one of Ireland’s leading Edtech companies specialising in the provision of globally accredited professional accountancy exams in addition to a range of university validated fintech, regtech, anti-money laundering/financial crime as well as a suite of professionally validated finance programmes. In addition, the school has developed its own bespoke Edtech assessment and testing examination platform which protects the rigor, integrity and security of online examinations.

Excellence in Public Sector Higher & Professional Education Accountancy & Fintech

PAT BUSINESS SCHOOL Pictured with the ‘Excellence in Public Sector Higher & Professional Education Award’ are Ms Christine Nangle, Head of Discipline of Accounting, Technological University Dublin and Mr Andrew Quinn, Director, PAT Business School Fintech and Mr Gerry Fahy, Managing Director, PAT Business School.

PAT Business School was originally founded in conjunction with the Irish Times Media Group in 2017 and Mr. Gerry Fahy, has been its Managing Director since 2018.

coveted triple Platinum rating – as a result of student exam result performance – with this being achieved the quickest in the history of ACCA.

In its infancy, PAT Business School had its foundations with early initiatives that concentrated on addressing the supply of skilled talent to the financial services sector. These strategic moves set the stage for the company's subsequent focus. Since then, its stakeholders have ranged from Irish Government agencies, European Union, global professional bodies, university partners, multinational companies and financial institutions to small and medium enterprises.

In professional accountancy exams there is a need for crisp, clear understanding and application of precise detail. Innovative software was developed that promoted the pursuit of performance excellence allied with instant and diagnostic learner feedback. Additional focus was placed on recreating the more discursive exam type questions using a simulated digital exam assessment and testing software that replicated global, professional exams.

PAT Business School embraces technological advancements, leveraging them to optimise processes, enhance learner experiences and drive efficiency. This commitment to innovation played a pivotal role in the company's development, being one of the first colleges, business schools, or universities in the world to secure the ACCA’s highly

Facing challenges When Covid 19 emerged in March 2020, an IT architecture was fortunately in place to meet the challenge. All face-to-face classes, operations, and IT were seamlessly transferred to an online infrastructure shortly after the Government’s announcement of the first lockdown.

PAT Business School expanded its course offering beyond accountancy to meet the evolving needs of both its employer and learner base in FinTech, Risk & Compliance, Regtech, Skills Academy, Financial crime, AntiMoney Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Finance. The diversification broadened the company's reach and solidified its position as a comprehensive solution provider. This was achieved by collaborating with Technological University Dublin, Technological University Shannon, (Athlone) and the Compliance Institute, ensuring the rigor and integrity of the course curricula was linked to an educational framework mirrored by industry demand in these critical skills occupations. Gerry reinforces that the pace of change in today's business and education landscape is unprecedented. “Technological advancements, shifting learner behaviours and global interconnectedness drive rapid transformations across industries. Organisations such as PAT Business School must constantly adapt to stay competitive, embracing innovation, agility, and continuous

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learning to navigate the dynamic challenges yet opportunities this rapidly evolving business and educational environment presents. “We have focussed on specialised offerings in accounting, Fintech and Regtech linked to employer-led demand with innovative and accredited content delivery. This is further reinforced by Government, Professional and University partnerships underpinned by an award-winning lecturer faculty with an outcome-focused approach. “We have a robust online presence with a well-designed website, social media presence and content marketing that showcases our expertise, shares valuable insights, and engages with existing and potential learners. “We were the first Irish ACCA provider to offer a 100% pass guarantee with a 'no pass, no fuss', the student can avail of all the interventions necessary to prepare and equip themselves for repeat examinations at no extra cost. We call it the 'PATway’ - as we only succeed when the student does.” As a private educational and training entity, PAT Business School appreciates that a strong emphasis around putting the student at the centre of all our interactions is a priority. This involves creating a positive and memorable experience that will lead to a positive and transformational impact on their career progression. PAT Business School’s mission statement is quite simple – to provide ‘Knowledge, Skills

and Choice’. The organisation’s commitment to learners is not only to knowledge transfer the rigors of thorough global syllabi but also to equip learners with work-ready skills that will give them a career of choice and opportunity. We would like to think that PAT Business School stands for quality, reliability, and integrity. Students should experience the same high level of service across various touch points as they progress through their exams. The organisation emphasizes its commitment to student support with 'The PATway, ' which builds trust, loyalty and student retention supported by the 100% Pass Guarantee. Achievements and assets Offering an unrivalled learning experience and environment is a top priority at PAT Business School as Gerry explains: “Students' needs can evolve over time, so it is crucial to stay connected with them and our stakeholders so as to remain flexible to meet their changing requirements. This is done by periodic market research and analysis, monitoring student feedback surveys, product/service development, personalisation through CRM and employer engagement to constantly measuring and evaluating operational performance. "Additionally, we recognise that our lecturing and back-office staff are our greatest asset, and PAT Business School is committed to and invests in its skilled and motivated workforce. This in turn contributes significantly to the company's objectives.

Pictured receiving the award were Ms Rasita Kalvaityte, Senior Operations Manager, Ms Sharon Mc Groarty, Finance Director, and Mr Gerry Fahy, Managing Director

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“Retaining and motivating our valuable team members and keeping them motivated is essential. We use a combination of factors to attract and retain our talent, from competitive salaries, professional development, worklife balance, and clear communications to empowerment and autonomy in addition to employee wellbeing.” PAT Business School has a continued emphasis on international diversification whilst domestically solidifying is position, underpinned by maintaining its ACCA Platinum rating status to winning the Irish Accountancy Awards Excellence in Education and Training category for 2023 and maintaining and expanding on university and professional body collaborations – domestically and internationally. Gerry attributes PAT Business School’s development to a combination of factors and strategies. “While we think our company's journey is unique, some common attributes that have played a significant role in driving our business achievements include innovative curriculum design, a studentcentric approach, a talented and experienced workforce, adaptability and strategic partnerships with the desire for continuous improvement.” Closing, Gerry shares lessons he has learned in business: "Change is constant, so the ability to adapt and be resilient is essential. Business environments are fluid and subject to shifts in market technology, market trends, and economic conditions. Consequently, obstacles and failures are part of any business journey. I have failed more times than I succeeded! Resilience is, therefore, hugely important for me in maintaining a positive mindset for the Business and the determination to overcome these challenges. “It is not about avoiding failure, but about learning from it and using it as a stepping stone towards growth. I have a personal mantra that failure never defines oneself – but how you react to it – does. ‘

“We have a strong online presence with a welldesigned website, social media presence and content marketing that showcases our expertise, shares valuable insights, and engages with existing and potential learners.”

PAT Business School is a Platinum Approved Learning Partner of the ACCA with accredited recognition, and is a formal recognition of PAT’s expertise to develop and deliver ACCA Syllabi in both classroom and on-line modes of delivery.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Tel: + 353 1 835 2963

PAT HQ Wicklow House, 84–88 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2

Springboard+ and HCI Pillar 1 are co-funded by the Government or Ireland and the European Union

Rialtas na hÉireann Government of Ireland

E: admissions@pat.edu.eu

WWW.PAT.EDU.EU

ACADEMY CLUB THE COMPLETE DIGITAL LEARNING SOLUTION FOR YOUR BUSINESS • • • •

Award Winning Classroom and Virtual Solutions Monthly Webinars and seminars for all staff Extensive eLearning and Compliance programmes Training for technical IT and Softskills

TO FIND OUT MORE CALL JACKIE OR ALEX ON (01) 434 7600 32 FITZWILLIAM STREET UPPER, DUBLIN 2 T: +353-1-4347600 E: INFO@IACT.IE W: WWW.IACT.IE

Excellence in Public Sector Training Solutions Support Award Celebrating 30 Years

IACT is a leading technical training and soft skills company dedicated to empowering organisations by providing top-class training programmes that enhance skills, boost productivity, and drive growth while ensuring everyone enjoys the journey.

IACT Over the years, IACT has seen exponential growth. The company started as a small team and has now expanded to a large family of dedicated professionals with profits and sales increasing year on year. IACT prides itself on its innovative training methodologies and its ability to adapt swiftly to the ever-evolving market needs. IACT has faced various challenges throughout its journey, one of the most significant being the global pandemic. Health and safety concerns suddenly rendered the traditional classroom training model unfeasible. Recognising the need for adaptability and resilience, the team swiftly pivoted, creating a virtual training environment called iLive Learning. This unique platform was meticulously designed to replicate the classroom experience, bringing it directly into the homes of IACT learners. Despite the challenges, the organisation was able to operate remotely, albeit with smaller numbers. The transition wasn’t just about technology; it was about ensuring that the quality and effectiveness of training remained uncompromised. IACT’s proactive approach and commitment to its clients ensured that learning never stopped, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Keen to keep up in an ever-changing environment, IACT constantly invests in research and development, it updates its training modules and embraces the latest technologies. Keeping a finger on the pulse of industry trends ensures that the company’s offerings are relevant and cutting-edge. IACT stands out from the competition thanks to its award-winning training programs, commitment to excellence, and personalised approach. The organisation doesn’t just offer training; it provides transformational experience, SharePoint and coding skills to Negotiation and GDPR compliance programmes. The philosophy at IACT is simple: “customer first.” The team believes in building lasting relationships, understanding clients’ unique needs, and going the extra mile to ensure their satisfaction. Through regular feedback sessions, surveys, and open communication channels, the team at IACT stays connected with its clients. This helps in tailoring offerings and ensures that clients’ expectations are not only met but exceeded. Staff form the very backbone of IACT. The company invests in their growth, provide a nurturing environment, and recognise

their achievements. Regular training, teambuilding activities, and a positive work culture keep the team motivated and committed. IACT has adapted its business to different environments and in response to the challenges faced by every business once they start. Since 2000 the company has worked closely with various government departments to deliver first-class training programmes at scale all over Ireland. During that time, there have been dotcom crashes and financial crashes to Covid lockdowns. Flexibility and a super hard-working team allowed IACT to succeed during those times. The team at IACT is excited about expanding its training programmes to include the latest technologies such as AI and virtual reality to help clients embrace and empower their businesses by employing these new tools. The future is bright, and the company is geared up for the journey ahead! IACT celebrates 30 years on 1st September 2023. This marks a significant milestone for the business and the team looks forward to working with its clients in the most exciting and transformative times for technology and humanity to work together.

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Excellence in Education & Training Lifelong Learning Community Support Award

As the largest education and training provider in the counties, Louth & Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) provides a broad range of education and training services to over 30,000 students and learners annually.

LMETB One of the country's largest Education and Training Boards (ETBs), the LMETB employs 2,500 staff and provides education for over 13,000 students at primary and post-primary levels, as well as approximately 15,000 learners in Further Education and Training (FET). LMETB's Further Education and Training (FET) provision offers a diverse range of full-time and part-time accredited and nonaccredited education and training for people over the age of 16 across locations in Louth and Meath. Its regional centres include the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE), the Regional Skills Training Centre (RSTC) in Dundalk, as well as Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) provision in Drogheda, Dunboyne and Dundalk. LMETB’s Further Education and Training centres in Drogheda, Dundalk, Kells, Navan, Athboy and Trim also offer information and guidance services and a range of courses and programmes that allow the learner to acquire the blend of skills and competencies necessary to achieve personal, educational and professional goals. The delivery of FET programmes to support the economy in Louth and Meath is supported through the national SOLASfunded Skills to Advance Initiative. SOLAS is the State agency overseeing the building of Ireland's Further Education & Training (FET)

sector. Employment Engagement Officers at LMETB work with local industry to help identify training needs, then develop and deliver targeted interventions to upskill and reskill the workforce. This engagement positions LMETB as the education and training provider of choice for employers seeking to upskill their employees and for the local population to upskill, reskill and participate in lifelong learning. LMETB's Employer Engagement Officer describes how this collaborative approach is essential: "Working in partnership with the various networks and employers around the region enables us to develop training that allows enterprises to compete at a higher level because staff are operating with an enhanced skillset. It can also be a highly costeffective solution for many employers as the ETB fully funds this training, or is provided at a highly subsidised rate, while employees can also apply directly for funding to upskill under our evening course provision.” The Skills to Advance initiative has support available to sole traders, small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs), or multinationals who need assistance investing in and developing their workforce. Training can be provided in soft skills development such as customer service, as well as in technical, practical and ICT skills. In 2022, Employer Engagement Services in LMETB supported almost 1213 employees in over 92

companies from the agriculture, healthcare and childcare, construction, education, leisure and services, ICT and telecoms, manufacturing and engineering sectors, to take up training courses. LMETB is proud to be taking the lead on launching a suite of cybersecurity programmes by their Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence. These programmes will help industries in all sectors to identify cyber risks and understand how they can impact an organisation’s physical assets, software and data. LMETB's apprenticeship and traineeship provision continues to support full-time trainees seeking to upskill and support employers seeking to develop their workforce. LMETB Apprenticeship Services Team engaged with over 850 employers in 2022. LMETBs response to the requirement to address increased Apprenticeships places has been swift and agile , with the delivery of the first of its kind Apprenticeship Training centre being established in Drogheda, Co Louth in 2023. The centre will provide 336 Apprenticeship places in Electrical craft trades annually.

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WORKING TO DELIVERY A BETTER SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICE The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) was set up to improve the delivery of education services to persons with special educational needs arising from disabilities with particular emphasis on children.

Telephone: 01 603 3200

ncse.ie

With responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children nationwide, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) works to improve the delivery of educational services to people with special educational needs.

Excellence in Services Specialist Education Award

NCSE Established in 2003 as an independent statutory body, the NCSE is operated through a national network of Special Education Needs Officers (SENOs), advisors and visiting teachers. SENOs liaise with parents, schools and health and education professionals to provide and review resource allocations to support children with special educational needs. Advisors provide professional learning events and in–school support designed to aid the development needs of teachers in relation to the teaching of children with special educational needs. In addition to conducting research in special education and regularly publishing on the subject, the NCSE carries out a defined role in the creation of policy by preparing evidence-based advice at the request of the Minister for Education to formulate recommendations in the special education sector. The NCSE has seen substantial growth and development over recent years; its 2023

budget saw a significant investment in the region of €13 million to support the expansion and development of the organisation, ensuring it remains capable of delivering meaningful outcomes for its students in the coming year and beyond. Additionally, an investment of over €10 million was made to support the expansion of special education services, leading to an increase of over 50% in staffing levels and providing for an additional 161 staff, including 40 new staff for an Irish Sign Language scheme. The educational landscape is ever evolving and the NCSE has taken several measures to remain current, including continually enhancing its services. The organisation engages intensely with the Department of Education for the forward planning of new special classes. This process involves a detailed review of statistical data to forecast the demand for special class places. This initiative demonstrates the NCSE's commitment to data-driven decision-making and improved data-sharing arrangements, ensuring that its planning is robust and able to meet the needs of its students.

Looking ahead to the next year and beyond, the NCSE is working on plans that include the continued expansion of its services and staff to meet the growing needs of special education in Ireland. Alongside the establishment of new special schools, the 2023/24 school year will herald the opening of 384 new special classes to cater to the increasing demand for special class places, with a particular focus on improving forward planning for special classes. One significant achievement for the NCSE is the substantial increase in spending on special education in 2023 to over €2.6 billion, a figure which is over 10% higher than the previous year. This unprecedented level of educational funding and support, constituting in excess of 27% of the Department of Education’s total allocation for 2023, underscores the organisation’s commitment to bolstering special education services and reflects the collaborative efforts between the NCSE and the Department of Education.

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Excellence in Public Sector Online Education Support Services Award

Public Sector Marketing Institute specialises in providing digital marketing training, consulting and practical support to government and public sector agencies. The organisation has designed accredited training programmes that are delivered both in-person and online.

PUBLIC SECTOR MARKETING INSTITUTE Public Sector Marketing Institute has developed a Learning Management System to facilitate access for public sector and government professionals worldwide. Since niching down into the government and public sector, the company has scaled its business across the world reaching new markets due to the specialist nature of its courses. Public Sector Marketing Institute has clients in the UK, mainland Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia and Asia. The Public Sector Marketing Institute brand is based on authority content, as founder Joanne Sweeny explains: “I write books to gain the respect of the people I respect. Our projects have included primary research into the use of social media by this sector in Ireland, the USA and Australia, hosting the Public Sector Digital Marketing Summit along with the Public Sector Marketing Show and producing an award-winning podcast (Bronze for Best Marketing Podcast at the 2022 Irish Podcast Awards). We have also published a range of industry books including social media Under Investigation, Law Enforcement and the Social Web (2015), Public Sector Marketing Pro 1st Edition (2018), Public Sector Marketing Pro 2nd Edition (2022). “Building trust and gaining market share is a challenge. However, we do this by leading

with value and providing our community with free content to help them on the job and with information that they can apply immediately.” Free resources available from Public Sector Marketing Institute include a podcast, a monthly webinar, blog posts, guides, career guidance calls with Joanne Sweeny and a weekly newsletter.

Public Sector Marketing Institute consults based on evidence and practice. The organisation is a practitioner of all that it teaches and consults on. Public Sector Marketing Institute sets its own high standards and expects the highest of standards of itself in its digital marketing as well as the work it does for its clients.

Public Sector Marketing Institute strives to remain current in an ever-changing marketplace. “I am a life-long learner, so I maintain knowledge and practice in the digital marketing industry as it changes daily”, says Joanne. “I subscribe to paid-for weekly social media and digital marketing training and undertake weekly desk research and interviews with industry and public sector experts as part of the research for my books, blogs and podcast. Our courses are also externally verified by the CPD Standards Office in the UK.

Public Sector Marketing Institute regularly holds focus groups, asks questions in its monthly webinars and interviews public sector pros on its podcast. This helps the organisation identify common challenges and needs. The company also produces bespoke training and consulting to match client needs.

“Social media and digital marketing for private business are vastly different from the public sector. I have essentially written the book on it. To quote Tom Cochran, former Chief Digital Advisor in President Obama’s Presidency, “Joanne’s book is the guide I needed to save me ten years of mistakes.” We don’t just offer general consulting or training; we have developed our own industry-leading frameworks and processes.”

Public Sector Marketing Institute is a team of seven digital marketing experts and is well recognised as a key player in its field and has achieved year-on-year growth, working with government agencies worldwide. Another significant achievement was Joanne being featured as a speaker at Meta’s first Government Digital Transformation Summit. In 2023 Joanne will launch the Public Sector Marketing Pro audiobook. Joanne attributes her considerable success to creating solutions that customers cannot fail to embrace, leading with value and delivering on promises time and time again.

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Ireland’s only Dedicated GWO Training Provider where you can complete your Safety Training & Industry Approved Medicals (RUK/OGUK/ Chester Step) under the one roof.

With unbeatable accommodation rates from our partner hotels - we’ve got you covered. Based in Falcarragh, Co Donegal 30mins from Donegal Airport. Call or email us today on

+353 74 9135999 or

info@errigaltraining.ie Online booking via our website

www.errigaltraining.ie

Errigal Training prides itself on being different. The training centre is Ireland’s first and only dedicated Global Wind Safety Organisation (GWO) accredited training provider to offer all five GWO Basic Safety Training courses under one roof. With a wide range of specialist equipment and training courses running weekly, Errigal Training has revolutionised how renewable energy companies can ensure all their employees are safe and compliant.

Excellence in Safety Training Offshore & Renewables Award

ERRIGAL TRAINING Offering all the necessary courses was always an aim for Errigal Training and for owner Frankie Veldman, the speed at which the centre has become accredited was, in effect, helped by the COVID pandemic. As the world shut down and stalled deliveries and installation of the specialised equipment and training areas in the centre, the decreased footfall and impact on the original business plan created a space to make the complete package ready, sooner than thoought. Frankie explained the benefit that Errigal’s unique offering gives to companies: “One of the biggest challenges for employees working on wind farm sites is their short rotations. They may be on-site for four weeks and home for two. Then in the two weeks off, they must renew their safety certificates. Because we run the courses every week, along with having a medical doctor come in one or two afternoons to complete the mandatory medicals that employees also need, clients don’t have to worry about matching their offsite weeks along with course dates or take a different course in a different place each time. This saves companies time, effort, and money.

“We have partnered with several local hotels and accommodation providers, with our cheapest bed and breakfast rate being €40 per night. We are based in the North-West of Ireland in a beautiful scenic area. So when our delegates come to us, we encourage them to avail of any of the local amenities. There are mountains to climb, and they can go surfing. We make it a different, pleasant experience.” This focus on the local community is a thread that runs through Errigal Training, matching its passion for the sector it operates in. “We employ six staff full-time, and we have many contractors who are extremely experienced in their fields. So, for example, training people to safely climb a wind turbine - all our staff have been in that situation, have worked in that area and know the risks and pitfalls. It isn’t just a matter of a course script that is passed on, they have hands-on knowledge, which makes us very fortunate. We’ve sourced most of our staff locally, which is fantastic. It means we’re employing local, keeping it local, and supporting the local economy. That’s our mantra: We want to keep it all local and give back to the community in any way possible.”

Frankie’s background in health and safety goes back almost 30 years and being safety conscious is very much his passion, something that shows through in the standards that Errigal Training has reached in such a short time. With their recently installed, bespoke Hub & Nacelle, they bring GWO training to a whole new level. These standards have led to three-year contracts being awarded to the centre by two distinct companies, something that is increasingly rare in the new ‘use as you go’ era of business. “The feedback we have had from companies who have seen our centre first-hand has been absolutely phenomenal,” Frankie adds. “We aim for the highest standard possible and to have that recognised with contracts is amazing.” Errigal Training is committed to remaining dedicated to the renewable sector, and with many more plans for offshore wind in Ireland’s future, the only way is up for this passion project with a personal touch.

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Safety Training & Consultancy Specialists

Safetech has an experienced and highly skilled and qualiﬁed team with the ability to provide professional safety services to industries such as Retail, Education, Entertainment, Transport, Licensing, Construction, Farming, Forestry, Hotel, Catering among others.

Classroom

Practical

Virtual Classroom

Plant & Equipment

Simulator

E-Learning

www.safetech.ie | info@safetech.ie NATIONWIDE DELIVERY Donegal: +353 (0)74 91 27786 | Galway: +353 71 93 00886 | Louth: +353 (0)42 94 19075 Cork: +353 (0)21 242 7249 | Dublin: +353 (0) 14853589

Excellence in Public Sector Workplace Safety Training Training & Consultancy Services

Offering a full range of safety solutions to national and international clients, awardwinning Safetech Consulting & Training is one of Ireland's leading workplace safety training and consultancy providers.

SAFETECH CONSULTING & TRAINING Established in 2003 by Managing Director Maria Sweeney, a Chartered Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), Safetech's service offerings include an extensive suite of nationally and internationally accredited training programmes, safety consultancy, construction site safety and fire and safety management systems. With two training centres in Donegal and others in Dublin, Galway, Louth and Cork, the company strives to provide the highest standards in all business areas, illustrated by its winning the local Business Excellence awards in 2012, 2013 and 2015. Safetech currently holds ISO 9001 and each accreditation body continuously audits and monitors the company’s processes. National and International accreditations offered by Safetech include: City & Guilds, SOLAS, QQI, RTITB, CITB, CSCS, CPCS, EUSR, CIEH, IHF, PHECC, CSkills, SQA, CITB SSP, NPORS, LANTRA and IPAF. In 2021, Safetech commenced a large training contract with the Office of Public Procurement (OGP) which has involved the roll-out of thousands of courses across the Public Sector in Ireland to clients such as the Health Service Executive, Universities, Education Training Boards, TUSLA, Court Services, Irish Prison Service, Department of Social Protection, local Councils,

Department of Agriculture and various other government departments. The company has worked hand-in-hand with government bodies to create bespoke training that meets their unique needs, an example being the current roll-out of a very successful Lone Worker First Aid course nationwide for the Department of Agriculture. In 2022, Safetech had over 38,000 clients complete programs in the classroom, virtual classrooms, eLearning, hands-on with plant/ equipment and on simulators. The company has already surpassed 40,000 clients in 2023. Turnover has increased in line with the solid uptick in clients, moving from €3.2 million in 2022 to a projected increase of 20% in 2023. Safetech currently has 27 employees and over 300 contract trainers and, since the onset of the Ukrainian war, has been proud to employ two competent interpreters from that country who aid in delivering training programmes nationwide in the Ukrainian language. Maria Sweeney and her team keep ahead of a changing market by continuously listening to client demands and looking for opportunities to innovate, including more accessible training methods such as eLearning and virtual classrooms. Safetech also employs a state-of-the-art booking system that affords the client a smooth

workflow from the booking stage to the issuing of certification. The company has set itself apart from the competition by its relentless pursuit of excellence, typified by Safetech becoming the only training provider in the Republic of Ireland that provides construction site entry and site plant cards (CPCS Plant Cards, CSCS Skill Cards, NVQs, Site Manager Cards), which are 100% accepted on all UK construction sites. Safetech is also one of the few companies in Ireland that provide simulated training with their state-of-the-art Plant Simulator, which enables participants to become familiar with manoeuvring certain machines while it measures progression. The Safetech philosophy is to keep the focus on the customer and treat each the same way, no matter how large or small. This philosophy crosses over to the workplace, with great importance placed on treating employees well and equitably. Future plans for Safetech Consulting & Training include setting up a base in the United Kingdom to replicate the winning formula the company has developed in the Irish market. These plans are currently underway with work to locate the perfect location for operations.

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Health & WELL-BEING In recent times, the construction industry has made some incredible advances in protecting the industry's workforce from physical harm. However, safety efforts focus almost entirely on physical health and greatly ignore mental health and wellness. Mental health and well-being are now a critical part of the construction industry's safety culture. The industry began a transformative journey to improve safety, reduce accidents and prevent fatalities in the 1980s. It must now take steps to ensure companies are equipped to help support and promote their employees' mental health and well-being. Due to the vast number of sole traders, micro-enterprises and SMEs operating in the sector, this will involve coordinated action between industry leaders, the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and government to ensure workers are supported in this area. The CIF commissioned a report to look into workers health and safety more holistically by addressing not only physical welfare but mental and emotional well-being. According to the “Mental Health in the Construction Sector” report, mental well-being and

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work-related stress are among the most challenging occupational health and safety concerns for construction workers. The survey uncovered that the most significant contributors to poor mental health in the sector were:

• General work-related stress (44%) • Unrealistic work targets (29%) • Long working hours (22%) • A macho work culture where employees

environment for construction workers is challenging, particularly with long hours, physically demanding work and in allweather conditions and terrain. Reaching Out As a male-dominated industry, there is a culture of not 'opening up' about mental or emotional challenges. This can be a real stigma in the construction industry where workers are not the macho people they pretend to be.

are uncomfortable seeking help (16%)

• A bullying culture (15%) • Poor communication between management and staff (9%) Although construction workers can be well paid, the nature of the work often involves short term contracts with less long term certainty of employment. The lack of job security can be a source of stress as it can be difficult for workers to engage in ongoing financial planning, such as mortgages and childcare costs. Another issue to emerge was the transient nature of the job, with workers often moving from site to site every six months. In addition, the working

In the CIF survey, 81% of employers reported that employees’ mental health is a highly sensitive issue and difficult to address, with 68% saying they would find it much easier to manage an employee who is physically sick than one with a mental health difficulty. The survey sought to examine to what extent companies have access to the necessary support structures to effectively manage employees struggling with their mental health. Just over 300 construction companies were surveyed, and the results subsequently weighted to reflect the entire population of 1,226 companies. They also conducted

ten qualitative surveys with employers, noting that almost all companies recognise the importance of employee well-being, with 98% acknowledging that staff mental health has important safety implications. Interestingly, larger construction companies are more aware of mental health and wellbeing than the smaller, more numerous companies that make up the sector.

companies to celebrate the resilience and goodwill manifesting in workplaces at this time.

As construction companies increase in size (numbers of employees), they devote more time to thinking about the issue of employee mental health, with 100% of larger companies (250 + staff) having considered the issue in the last year. This is likely to be influenced in part by the greater resources available to larger companies to allocate to employee well-being. For example, John Sisk & Co has been involved in promoting a National Workplace Well-being Day, encouraging

What companies can do, large or small, supported by membership bodies such as the CIF and The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), is to agree deadlines and budgets that are reasonable, to create structures, resources and education that support worker well-being and most importantly, to create a culture of openness and transparency.

The issue of employees’ mental health is not as ‘top of mind’ for smaller construction companies because they are more timepoor and likely to be more thinly spread than larger competitors.

When you think about it, the mind drives the activity of the body. To work safely, people need to be mindful of what they're doing. And that's part of the conversation on mental health in the construction industry and beyond. 277

Make it Visible The management of health issues in construction and providing assistance for those working in the sector has been a concern for the CIF Safety & Health Committee. To this end, the CIF supports the work of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, the only charity to provide emotional, physical, and financial well-being support to the construction community. The Lighthouse Construction Industry charity provides emotional, physical and financial well-being support to construction workers and their families. It provides a confidential 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline and supporting app which provides information, advice and guidance on a huge variety of well-being issues. Whether an employer or an employee, the helpline provides the first point of contact for those who need to access a range of completely confidential support services. Taking the concept one step further, The Lighthouse Club’s ‘Make it Visible’ on site visits have been spreading the message of awareness and support directly to the construction community. Launched last year in a bid to reach out to the ‘boots on the ground’ workforce, Make it Visible tours are hugely popular and take the message of support directly to where it needs to be.

The Make it Visible team visited sites across a range of Irish companies including John Sisk, Cairn Homes, M. Fitzgibbon Contractors, Shareridge, Dornan Engineering, PJ Hegarty & Son, Goldcross Developments, Knoxpark Developments, Eli Lilly, Keirnan Electrical, Irving Oil Refinery, Weltec Engineering, Bennett Construction and Collen Construction. 278

Mental health contributes to our decision-making, problem-solving, how we deal with stress, and how we relate to others. That's why we must always care about our own mental health.

As well as delivering a toolbox talk, the tour team shares their own lived experiences and the struggles they have had. They talk about the importance of looking after emotional well-being, both on and off site, and reaching out for support at an early stage. The charity's efforts to raise awareness of the support it can offer the Irish construction community has been bolstered by dynamic committees that are championing new networking and fundraising events all over the country.

The road to a robust system of support for mental health issues is not straightforward in any scenario, and there is always room for progress. Still, the pathway to wellbeing within the construction industry has opened. These initiatives can lead to a more secure and supportive arena in the workplace for both workers and employers to express their mental health concerns without prejudice.

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Recent prestigious works at the new Sano Pizza in Cork

OPUS CONSTRUCTION LTD

Northview House, Gurrannes, Templemartin, Bandon, Co. Cork. Telephone:

087 761 0400 Email: brian-nolan@hotmail.com

Excellence in Commercial Construction Design & Craftsmanship Specialists Southern Region

Specialising in commercial projects with a strong focus on craftsmanship and design, Opus Construction Ltd is a leading building contractor in the Cork area.

OPUS CONSTRUCTION The founders, cabinet maker Brian Nolan, and site carpenter John Guiney, met whilst they were both working on the Cork Courthouse in 2004. It was six years later when they decided to meld their joint expertise and experience in the construction industry to form Opus Construction in 2010. Brian and John have carved out a lucrative niche in the commercial construction sector by concentrating on projects under the two million Euro mark. Explaining their commercial tactic, Brian says: “We take on the jobs that are too big for the small guys and too small for the big guys.” He adds: “We have a small crew that can take on the bigger jobs for less expense. I assume the role of project supervisor at the construction stage and put myself in the position of the client and what they are looking for. The look, feel, colour, drama - all these things are factored in.” The Opus Construction crew includes a fully rounded set of sub-contractors who are tested and proven and who come together for virtually every job which Brian and John undertake.

“We specialise in fit-out and refurbishment projects; we’re a design-focused contractor operating mostly within the commercial sector. Everything we do is led from the fitout. We work closely with the fit-out people and architects to make sure the job is done right. We can do everything from the RC walls to the finished carpentry. We help the client to select the right contractor and finish. It’s a complete turnkey service,” Brian explains. Opus Construction have built up an enviable reputation for close attention to detail; exemplary workmanship; a close working relationship with clients, and a value-formoney offering that has much of their work coming from both repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendation from their clients. Hotel and restaurant refits are a particular speciality for the pair with the iconic 4-star Montenotte Hotel in Cork standing as a perfect example of their work. “We’ve done a lot of work in the Montenotte Hotel over the past three years. We enjoy an excellent working relationship with them and are nearly part of the furniture there at this stage,” Brian remarks. “We’ve revamped the Motion Health Club leisure centre twice; we

designed and installed a custom-built zinc line archway and converted seven two-bed apartments into 14 one-bed self-catering apartments in conjunction with Meitheal Architects. We also upgraded 30 bathrooms and bedrooms, fitting them out with new wardrobes, raised the staircase panelling and recently revamped the Panorama Terrace,” he adds. The workload completed at the Montenotte is so extensive, that they joke that it has become their office away from office, and they are currently collaborating on an extension to the staff canteen there. Other notable work the Opus Construction has completed includes the Bowes Ryan restaurant in Limerick; The Green Frog Café near UCC; Son of a Bun in Cork, and Sliced, at four of their outlets across Cork. 2024 looks bright for Opus Construction with its winning one-stop-shop formula of working closely with design teams and using only the most trusted and highlyskilled people to deliver the highest quality construction results for its clients.

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Excellence in Public Sector Construction Northwest Region

Established in 1958, PJ Treacy & Sons is a design and build construction and civil engineering company and familyrun business based in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. The firm operates across the construction sectors in both public and private contracts, with a vast range of experience and an impressive project portfolio across a range of sectors, including commercial, industrial, community, education, healthcare, hotels, and sports & leisure.

PJ TREACY & SONS PJ Treacy & Sons has been a well-respected construction company in the North-West for more than 60 years. From small beginnings the firm has grown to become an innovative building contractor. The traditional values of reliability and attention to detail combine with modern building techniques and a forwardthinking attitude. PJ Treacy & Sons has a strong customer service philosophy as Managing Director Martin Treacy explains: “We work for both public sector and private clients and the philosophy is the same for each. It is about providing a high-quality product and service. If the product or service isn’t at the level required, then at a minimum it reduces the opportunity for repeat business, which in a localised area such as the North-West, could be detrimental to a business such as ourselves. We are passionate about what we do and take a personal approach to every job. Martin believes engaging with the client at the earliest opportunity benefits both parties greatly in terms of understanding the client’s requirements and offering alternative solutions and ideas to provide the best value and resources to achieve the desired end product.

He attributes much of the firm’s success to its staff. “Our staff and personnel are fundamental to everything we do. Thankfully, we have retained great people over the years, with several of our current employees working more than 30 years with the company. We have experienced staff in all business areas, assisting in creating seamless project management procedures within our organisation.”

Construction recently began on a new primary school in Donegal Town and a new fire station project in Ballybay, Co. Monaghan will get underway in September. This is in addition to a new development of six apartments and two retail units to commence for PJ Treacy & Sons’ sister company, Carran Properties Ltd, and planning is in process for three new housing developments in Co. Fermanagh, which are due to start early 2024.

PJ Treacy & Sons have completed numerous significant projects in the last year including a D&B 1,400m² Business Enterprise & Technology Centre project in Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan, a factory and office extension in Tandragee, Co. Armagh, a restoration project at St. Mary’s Church, Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone and the final phase of a 42-unit scheme at the firm’s own development in Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh.

Like most construction companies, price increases over the last few years were challenging to navigate. It significantly increased the risk at the tendering stage. PJ Treacy & Sons overcame this challenge by utilising its vast experience in these situations over its time in business.

In the coming months, the firm will complete a replacement roof project at Mount Lourdes College, Enniskillen, and two social housing schemes in Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim and Cranmore, Co. Sligo. It will also complete the final phase of a housing development in Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh.

To remain current in an ever-changing marketplace, the firm engages with more sustainable technologies, materials and building techniques. For instance, on its upcoming housing developments, the firm is providing electric charging points and air source heat pumps with its homes as standard, recognising a definite trend towards much more sustainable living.

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MJ Clarkes & Sons is a general building contractor which carries out contracting projects to a value of €1-1.5m as well as a large volume of minor works projects and building maintenance (planned and unplanned).

Excellence in Construction 60 Years of Quality Workmanship

MJ CLARKES MJ Clarkes was established in 1961 by Michael J Clarke (deceased 2020). Michael was president of the Master Builders and Contractors Association in 1991. Rachel Clarke, Managing Director since 2013, was made MBCA President in 2020 - the first father and daughter to have held this position and in Rachel’s case, the first female. Areas MJ Clarkes focuses on are blue chip clients – primarily commercial and the firm has recently expanded its specialised medical, hospital and nursing home works. MJ Clarkes employs 25 staff, all of whom are of high quality, talented and customerfocused tradesmen and women. With an annual turnover of approximately €4.5m - the firm consistently achieves Grade A Safe T Certification and is CIRI certified, fully insured and tax compliant.

As a company, MJ Clarkes is agile and has adapted its business to focus on different growth areas over the years. The firm primarily focuses on commercial clients with decades of experience working in banks, embassies, offices and other secure environments. Over recent years this has expanded to specialised medical, hospital and nursing home works.

As a successful leader of a construction company, Rachel says she continues to be surprised that it still makes headlines when women are appointed to management positions in construction, saying: “Surely at this point, women have proven themselves and the industry must realise that good, hardworking women and men are equally capable of being brilliant in any business.”

Managing Director Rachel Clarke explains how the company has evolved over the years: “During the 70s and 80s my dad’s ambition was to grow the company to construct new builds on greenfield sites. His first big job was the Bank of Ireland in Blanchardstown. He grew the company’s client base – primarily commercial and educational new builds, extensive refurbishments and even building apartments. However, over the years, he found that the contracting side was moving more into management, whereas he wanted to hold on to our original reason for being – to build.”

MJ Clarkes is a reasonably low-key firm but consistently delivers for its clients, ensuring significant repeat business. The team nourishes client relationships ensuring clients know they can call for help anytime. Rachel puts much of the firm’s success down to quality workmanship, reliable service and efficient administration which she says never go out of fashion. “Our greatest achievement is that the business that my late father was so proud of is still here, still employing great people and still profitable 63 years later.”

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Dublin’s Trusted Window & Door Company Best Quality for the Best Value

10 year Warranty

Fully Insured

Full Aftercare

Full Clean Up

Windows & Doors with Kenny Windows With over 30 years’ experience and innovation in the manufacturing and installation of an extensive range of windows and doors, Kenny Windows knows a thing or two about what it takes to become one of Dublin’s leading and favourite window and door companies. Bringing the very latest technology for security, energy eﬃciency and style our extensive product range is fully EU compliant, tailor-made customised designs with several colours ﬁnishes available that will suit any home.

5000+

100%

Dublin Homes

Years in Business

A Energy Rated Products

Showrooms On Cork Street, Dublin 8, Ireland

(01) – 454 6275

www.kennywindows.ie

info@kennywindows.ie

Innovation in Business Windows & Doors Celebrating 33 Years

Kenny Windows was founded in 1990 by Fergus and Vincent Kenny. The firm is a secondgeneration family business with over 30 years of experience and innovation in the manufacturing and installation of an extensive range of windows and doors.

KENNY WINDOWS Kenny Windows knows a thing or two about what it takes to become one of Dublin’s leading and favourite window and door companies. Bringing the very latest technology for security, energy efficiency and style, the firm’s extensive product range is fully EU compliant and A-rated as standard with tailor-made customised designs with several colour finishes that will suit any home. Kenny Windows offers whole-house solutions along with a range of home improvements to fulfil clients’ home improvement needs. The firm designs, surveys and advises on the best home options, considering the client’s ideas and preferences and offering a solution that works every time. A team of trusted installers work to provide a space that suits each client, offering excellent value like never before. Kenny Windows recently retrofitted the apartment complex New Court overlooking St Patricks Cathedral in the heart of Dublin City, an SEAI initiative comprising 57 living units and communal areas with curtain walling commercial systems, passive triple glazing uPVC casement windows, fire safety doors, aluminium windows and doors, composite doors and tilt and turn uPVC windows. The project allowed the firm to expand its staff to ten and proved a huge success. Kenny Windows is delighted to announce that it has secured a contract for retrofitting

windows and doors for a school in Cork with the same contractor based on its excellent performance in New Court. The team hopes this is just the beginning of a strong partnership with this contractor.

the best products on the market to our clients at an affordable price,” explains Manager Paul Kenny. In addition, a minimum of fuss plus experience in the design and fitting process is crucial in remaining current.

The firm’s main line of business since 1990 is the domestic homeowner. The team has seen massive changes over the years in products and materials for fitting windows and doors and all for the better. Using A-Rated as standard, offering passive windows is a big decider these days with people being more conscious of climate change and reducing carbon emissions as well as cost savings on energy bills. This is the most significant change Kenny Windows has seen in the current market, especially in the last few years.

“A lot has changed in the market since 1990,” Paul explains. “Products are better made and evolving for better energy, security and style. The installation products have also improved along with the thermal properties of doors and windows, which speeds up the installation process. Communication with clients and suppliers has also dramatically improved with WhatsApp, email and social media taking centre stage in today’s market.” All good for service and for customers Paul says. He closes by saying that this family firm is proud of what they have achieved over three decades and they look forward to another 33 successful years in business.

The management team ensures all staff have the skill set and temperament for working in clients’ homes and is conscious of this when hiring staff. The firm recruits cooperative, well-mannered, and trustworthy staff, fully aware that this makes the fitting experience more pleasant for its clients. Kenny Windows has seen huge changes over the course of 33 years and understands that adapting and progressing with change and introducing new products is key to longevity and is the main reason the firm has endured and thrived over three decades. “We bring

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01 4516880

Dublin based Electrical Contractors serving the electrical industry nationwide since 2008 •Fully Insured

•Manual Handling Certified

•Fully Qualified

•EV Charger Installation Certified

•RECI and Safe Electric Registered

•SEAI Grant Certified

•Current Tax Clearance Certificate

•GRI Grant Certified

•Safe Pass Compliant

•QC Certified

Our priority is to provide a safe, professional and friendly service to ensure all projects are completed to the highest possible standard in a timely manner and on budget, leaving our clients content and confident in our work.

www.knelectricalservices.ie

Excellence in Business Construction Contractor of Choice Specialist Electrical Award

Based in Dublin, and serving the whole of Ireland, KN Electrical Services operates within the electrical industry offering its clients services that include domestic, commercial, industrial, maintenance, EV charger installation and consultancy.

KN ELECTRICAL SERVICES Founded in 2008 by Managing Director, Kane Nolan, today KN Electrical Services is one of Ireland’s contractors of choice in the construction industry. Its team of project managers, engineers, estimators and electricians ensure that each and every project is completed in a safe and timely manner with a professional and friendly service. Kane emphasises: “Our number one objective is to serve our clients to the highest possible standards and to leave them feeling confident in the work we have carried out. We are RECI/ Safe Electric registered, fully insured and qualified electrical contractors.” Flagship projects successfully delivered by KN Electrical Services include the ultramodern Highline Building in Dun Laoghaire. The project involved a 2-story complete electrical installation, including general services, lighting and emergency lighting along with fire, security and access control. In a high-end development such as the Highline Building, finish and quality are key. The Willows, Dunshaughlin, is a development of 325 large three, four and five-bedroom well-designed energy efficient, A-rated

homes. KN Electrical Services was involved in the full electrical installation of the development. Bar 1661, winner of Ireland’s Bar of the Year 2022, is a uniquely Irish, independent establishment. The project required a bespoke installation including containment, general services, emergency lighting, general lighting, and fire alarm distribution boards which KN Electrical Services fulfilled. One breakthrough area of business for the company is the design, supply, installation and maintenance of EV charging points. All charging points installed by the company comply with the Electrical Technical Council of Ireland (ETCI) and the Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland (RECI) standards, and are tested and certified upon completion and handover. “We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, strong work ethics, honesty, reliability, respect and equality,” says Kane when asked about what differentiates his company from the competition. He adds: “We consistently enrol our staff in all relevant electrical courses to upskill and be ready for any job we encounter.”

Kane recognises that his staff are a key factor in his company’s success and all employees are equally valued. He explains: “We communicate with our team members frequently to ensure they are content in their role and discuss what improvements we can put in place to improve their work experience with KN Electrical Services.” These characteristics have been pivotal in the success the company has achieved to date, and Kane notes that because of this ethos, KN Electrical Services enjoys its existing clients regularly returning with new projects. As head of KN Electrical Services, Kane imparts a clear company philosophy: “We strive to provide the best service we can to ensure our clients are content with the work we have carried out for them,” he says. “We have achieved excellent customer service through our strong work ethic and attention to detail resulting in repeat business from our clients. We have a strong emphasis on communication and believe this is key to building a relationship of trust and reliability with our clients.”

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Commercial • Educational • Restoration • Civil Works

For all information contact:

pjloughlinbuilders@gmail.com

Tel: 087 677 8506

PJ Loughlin Builders, based in Caher, Shrule, Co Mayo, was originally founded in 1970 as a sole trader operation. The limited company, established in 2000, has since carved out a niche for itself in small to medium-sized school extensions, new builds, and site development works.

Excellence in Construction Building Specialists Protected Structures & Education Projects

PJ LOUGHLIN Specialising in commercial, educational, restoration and civil works, PJ Loughlin operates primarily along the west coast but has worked on projects nationwide and abroad. While PJ and his wife Kathleen are now retired, they are still involved in an advisory capacity. PJ’s son Kieran now fronts operations with his wife, also Kathleen, and their passion for the building trade is evident through their children, some of whom are now qualified in engineering, quantity surveying, construction economics and project management. The firm has ten direct employees supported by the same tried and trusted subcontractors, including MG Electrical, Morris Electrical, Lynch Construction Services, Stephen Walsh Construction & Maintenance and Stephen Monaghan Carpentry. PJ Loughlin Builders is a company with a dedicated team of professionals and craftsmen who work to a consistently high standard to deliver high-quality buildings to its clients. The operating philosophy of PJ Loughlin Builders is one of cooperation with its clients and design teams. An overriding objective is always to deliver quality work on time, which reflects well on all those involved, creating the

potential to carry out subsequent work for the same clients and design teams. The success of this policy is evident from the large proportion of repeat business with satisfied clients. In more than 50 years of trading, PJ Loughlin Builders has acquired an ever-growing list of satisfied clients who have experienced the company’s straightforward and professional approach based on partnership and teamwork. Asked how his company has coped with rising material costs and hyperinflation, Kieran replies: “It’s been difficult, but we’re lucky to have an excellent relationship with our suppliers who keep us informed of any potential price increases. You get on with things as best you can. The bills and wages still must be paid. Hopefully, we’re coming out of the worst of it. On the plus side, we’re very busy, and long may that continue.” In all business activities the company aims to act responsibly and encourage staff and subcontractors to do likewise. “We are conscious of the materials we use and the energy we consume,” Kieran says. “Where possible, we minimize our ongoing activities’ impact on the environment.

“We believe in employing personnel who are committed to innovation and value our company ethos, which is to work with our clients in delivering quality projects that meet their expectations.” As a company, PJ Loughlin believes in supporting local charities and playing an active role within the community. The firm interacts with community groups and businesses and, where possible, will source local labour resources and materials to positively impact the community and the environment. Keiran concludes by further describing the company’s business philosophy: “Whether you’re a public or private client, PJ Loughlin Builders’ one-stop-shop approach will ensure that both the design and building processes are smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free. Our reputation for quality construction and ability to complete projects on time and within the agreed budget is borne out by the high volume of repeat business and referrals we receive from design teams and scores of satisfied clients.”

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Rail Services Agricultural Services Plant Services

Located in Sarsﬁeldstown, Killucan, Westmeath

For more information contact: John: 0878131099 • Aaron: 087 4161181 • Wayne: 087 9304944 • Ofﬁce: 044 9374692 • Fax: 044 9374692

www.johndixonplanthire.ie

Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award Ireland’s Best Road/Rail Plant Supplier

John Dixon Plant Hire have been crucial in supplying some of the largest rail projects in Ireland, providing plant and services, ranging from track maintenance to complete track renewals. John Dixon Plant Hire has unrivalled expertise in plant hire for the rail and agriculture industries.

JOHN DIXON PLANT HIRE Established in the early 1980s by John and Sheila Dixon in Sarsfieldstown, County Westmeath, John Dixon Plant Hire has grown from humble beginnings in land reclamation, site clearance and agriculture hire, to become one of the leading road rail plant suppliers in Ireland. “We pride ourselves on being skilled and experienced in all aspects of rail work plant hire and agriculture work,” says CEO, John Dixon. “Our goal is to deliver the best possible service to our clients.” John explains that because of this commitment “We are continually challenging ourselves to reach the next level of achievement.“ In addition to their rail work, the company is proud to provide a wide variety of services to the agricultural industry. With a focus on customer satisfaction and the use of topquality machinery, John Dixon Plant Hire can supply agricultural clients with a myriad of services, including raking, baling and wrapping; mowing and hedge cutting; slurry, muck and fertiliser spreading; crop spraying and land reclamation. “Each job requires special tools,” John notes. “We are continuously investing in

machinery and equipment to ensure work being delivered is to the best of our ability.” Speaking about the company´s work with the rail industry, he explains: “We have a wide range of equipment, all of which has been customised for the railway environment. We are constantly looking for ways to provide the complete service and this led us to our present position with a range of machines and attachments for every rail related job.” John understands the importance of forward momentum in business. “Continual development is important to any business, and it is vitally important to the long-term viability of the operation,” he says. Speaking about operating a successful business in the current economic climate, John notes: “Inflation brings considerable challenges for our industry. Rising prices impact on materials, labour hiring rates, machinery costs, machinery parts and more.” He also highlights the rising price of fuel as a particular cost challenge. John believes that innovation is the key to keeping John Dixon Plant Hire ahead of the competition. He believes the company engages in a constant cycle of creation and

improvement to solve problems and meet client needs: “We have the ability to carry out any job successfully and on time and we have a wide variety of machinery affording the customer more choice,” he explains. Two defining values of John Dixon Plant Hire are a strong work ethic and a reputation for reliability. The company is committed to delivering the best possible service to clients and also strive to be environmentally friendly in all their work, by recycling materials, reducing energy consumption and dust and noise levels at all times. As a family run company, it’s no surprise that they also have a strong commitment to their employees. “We are devoted to our employees’ safety, health, job security and welfare,” affirms John. When reflecting on the greatest lessons he has learned in business, John says. “Hard work can outweigh talent and intelligence and this is absolutely necessary if you want to succeed,” he concludes. “This not only means working hard when things are going well, but working harder when things are not. It means taking calculated risks and sticking to them, no matter how challenging they are.”

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Complete New House Builds • Commercial • Extensions & Renovations

Will Fogarty Construction Ltd was established in 2012, the North Cork based family business was trading under the name Ultimate Building Solutions from 2007. Our speciality is working on one-off passive designs. We take care of every aspect of our clients’ needs from design to planning and development & beyond. We have build a reputation for our collaborative approach to each individual project working hand in hand with our clients and design teams.

Email :info@willfogarty.ie Tel: 022-55532 Mob: 086-1933319

www.willfogarty.ie

Offering a wide range of construction services including residential, commercial and refurbishments, North Cork-based Will Fogarty Construction Ltd has been delivering projects of an exceptional standard for over 15 years.

Excellence in Business Construction House Building Specialist Southern Region

WILL FOGARTY CONSTRUCTION Established in 2012, the family-run business carries out the majority of its projects in the County Cork area, but its reach also extends to Limerick, Kerry and into Ireland’s capital itself. Will Fogarty Construction specialises in work that is at opposite ends of the construction spectrum: from creating ultra-modern new homes and bringing historical buildings, including protected structures, back to life. “Our niche is renovating very old buildings and constructing very modern ones,” says director, Will Fogarty. “Be it ultra-modern or incredibly old, we will endeavour to build the client’s vision. With the right design team and contractors in place, we can come up with the solution the client wants.” Will goes on to talk about a project in Mallow his team have been working, which is a blend of old and new. “I really appreciate that kind of conservation work, but at the same time we’re careful of what we take on, as it’s essential to have the right team and trades with you to deliver the high standards that we have set.” The company ensures exceptionally crafted finishes by taking control of the project right from the design stage. Taking care of every

aspect of a build or renovation from planning, to development and beyond, Will Fogarty’s experienced in-house team resources all aspects of the project to ensure the client enjoys a hassle-free experience. “Flexibility is key to fully realising a client’s vision,” says Will. “We have built a reputation for our collaborative approach to each individual project, working hand-in-hand with our clients and design teams.” A collaborative approach to projects, alongside a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, has resulted in the company enjoying the enviable position of gaining most of its work via recommendation. Will explains: “The majority of our business comes through word of mouth, with a significant amount of repeat business. We have several exceptionally good clients who we work for regularly and we are incredibly lucky to have these great customers.” In order to deliver to such a high standard, Will has surrounded himself with exceptional, highly qualified personnel, both in the office and on-site, and these team members contribute immeasurably to the ongoing

success of the business. The core team is nine, including Will himself. “I am fortunate to have excellent staff,” beams Will. “I also work with reliable sub-contractors, most of whom have been with me for the last 15 years. They are like an extension of my own company. They know what is expected of them and they slot in seamlessly. You must treat your extended team well and appreciate the value they bring. Once you look after them and treat them with the respect they deserve, then they will want to be part of the team and will repay you with good workmanship.” Will is no passive figurehead of the company. “I like to keep busy and getting the projects completed,” he says. A highly skilled carpenter himself, this hands-on Director typically divides his time between working on-site and managing operations back at the office. Construction has changed in recent years and Will sees taking on larger projects, but fewer of them, in order to focus on quality and customer satisfaction as the future for his company.

295

Excellence in Business Innovation Industry-leading Solutions Celebrating 50 Years

Pipelife is Ireland’s leading manufacturer and provider of plastic piping systems. Specialising in the extrusion of polyethylene (PE) pipes, Pipelife offers industryleading products for the heating and plumbing, water pressure, electricity, cable ducting, gas and agricultural sectors.

PIPELIFE Drawing on over 50 years of manufacturing experience from its production plant in Cork, Pipelife has been at the forefront of developing innovative products and has been an industry leader for many years. Pipelife is Ireland’s leading manufacturer and provider of plastic piping systems. Specialising in the extrusion of polyethylene (PE) pipes, Pipelife offers industry leading products for the heating & plumbing, water pressure, electricity, cable ducting, gas and agricultural sectors. With the acquisition of Cork Plastics back in 2021 this has allowed Pipelife to extend our product portfolio and market presence. The Cork Plastic’s product ranges were very complementary to Pipelife Irelands existing product ranges, with the additional advantage of providing a very solid sales presence in external cladding, Rainwater and Roofline systems for the building industry in Ireland, the UK and Mainland Europe. After effects of the Covid-19 pandemic linger for many businesses throughout Ireland and Pipelife is no exception. Managing Director Ger Healy explains: “The main challenges being faced are shared with many other companies throughout Ireland and further afield. A very tight labour market is greatly hindering the ability to fill the positions created by the expansion of the business. The additional pressures arising from increasing raw material, energy and transport costs are being felt across the board, and within the plastic pipes market, the shortage of raw materials has also impacted significantly this year.”

Despite this Ger says that the company has managed to ensure the business remains current in an ever-changing marketplace. “Our primary goal is to be a provider of industryleading products and services to the building sector,” he explains. “No longer is it sufficient to merely manufacture a product and sell it as a commodity. Pipelife recognises that modern systems require fully designed specification solutions. We will provide our customers with design solutions they can confidently use. As such, we are investing heavily in inhouse design services, particularly, but by no means exclusively, in the heating sector. We will provide systems custom designed to the building, with full design indemnity insurance and full life after-sales support services.” Developers, builders and homeowners are faced with ever-increasing upfront costs in new builds as regulatory changes and the move to low-temperature, low-emission heating systems impact building design and heating systems. In these situations, scale brings efficiencies, so the greatly enhanced scale of the new Pipelife Ireland operations following the Cork Plastics acquisition will allow the firm to invest and provide competitively priced class-leading design services and products. The firm is building a brand-new training centre in Cork where all the Pipelife products, particularly the renewable heating products, can be shown and demonstrated to specifiers, architects, consultants, installers and key decision makers. The inclusion of the Cork Plastics product portfolio allows for a much

more detailed design and specification service to be offered on a whole-house basis. Pipelife places great emphasis on the importance of its staff. “We wouldn’t be where we are today only for them, says Ger. “From our sales and technical teams to our production staff who manufacture the product, transport, internal sales, finance, underfloor department, marketing and much more, everyone has a part to play in helping the company to succeed and build on our success.” The Pipelife Irish operation is the secondlargest manufacturing operation in the Pipelife Group. An initial investment of €30m has already commenced to expand and upgrade the existing site in Little Island, Cork, so that by 2026 there will be 35 state-of-theart extrusion lines incorporating the latest automation technologies, with a planned output approaching 45,000 tonnes per annum. As an industry that has drawn some negative opinions concerning the historical environmental impacts of manufacturing and building, Pipelife is very firmly committed to achieving world-class results in its ESG targets. On a group-wide level, Pipelife is leading the way within the industry to improve safety, reduce its carbon footprint, and design its products to maximise their potential in a truly circular economy.

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Excellence in Construction Electrical & Communication Specialists Commercial, Industrial & New Build

RGN is an electrical and communications company specialising in industrial, commercial, educational and communication installation. The firm is committed to delivering continual excellence and ensuring that every project it undertakes is of the highest standard and is completed on time and within budget.

RGN RGN’s aim is not to be the biggest but to be the best in the electrical and communications industry. The team is committed to fostering a culture in which project quality and health and safety are lifestyle choices. According to Director Richard Nevin, RGN’s key strengths have been developing and maintaining repeat business since Year 1: “This has enabled us to grow in confidence with familiar customers and clients and create a firm footing on which to build. “Using strategic networking and driven by a determination to achieve and exceed our potential, we have strived to build an excellent reputation,” he says. “This is not to say there haven’t been challenges. The coronavirus pandemic plunged us into unchartered territory, as it did for many businesses, large and small. We had only recently expanded our staffing levels and felt the pressure of needing to ensure business survival.”

RGN to not only survive and retain staff, but continue on a trajectory of sustainable growth. Another Challenge RGN Faced, particularity over the last year, has been a shortage of skilled staff to meet the likely demands of the growing business. To over come this they started upskilling and investing time and finance on in house an external training to existing staff. When required bringing in Sub contractor to help with demand. This strategy enabled RGN to predict and fill in the skills provided by its workforce. To support their recruitment and retention needs and help ensure a solid team, RGN offers excellent staff incentives, such as a pension scheme and project bonuses. The management team conducts regular performance reviews and toolbox talks and arranges social days and nights to foster team spirit, motivation, and interest in personal and professional growth within the company.

During this time, RGN’s strategy to always look ahead at the bigger picture and plan for the long-term paid off, as essential projects, or projects that could take advantage of lockdown, continued, such as school fit-outs, manufacturing, and preventive maintenance for social housing and factories.

New employees at RGN know they will be treated with respect from day one. They can expect to be rewarded for their effort and contribution to the business, and there will be opportunities to progress from first-year apprentice to Project Manager.

During what Richard describes as “an incredibly challenging period,” the contracts the firm had previously established enabled

To stay current in an ever-changing marketplace, RGN remains flexible in its approach to clients’ needs as Richard explains:

“Our keen and up-to-date knowledge of the sector and its leading players, coupled with our relatively small business size, enables us to adapt quickly to suit the individual needs of our clients. This flexible approach means we can offer a different level of service from the norm and keep our costs competitive. “Excellent Reputation is also a key quality we work hard to maintain and carry through our company,” Richard adds. “As we are a small/medium size company, we can tailor our clients’ needs and work with them to look at cost savings to ensure projects stay on budget. This makes us stand out and get ontinued repeat business.” RGN continues to evolve, and its growth over the last few years is a particular achievement as well as winning an award for best emerging business in Kildare. The firm is currently working on securing some exciting modular projects and maintaining a foothold in UCD. Richard concludes by describing his business philosophy: “Work hard, work smart is my motto, combined with investing in and upskilling loyal staff and utilising all business connections. I also strongly believe in making most in opportunities presented to the business.”

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OF EXCELLENC E YRS 0 2 R E EST. 1996 OV

SERVICES AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALISTS Frank Roche Air Conditioning Ltd provide installation and maintenance services of Air Conditioning Systems for not only domestic installations but a wide range of industries and public sectors across Ireland.

Commercial

Health Sector

Pharmaceutical

Retail & Offices Solutons

Public Service Sector

Process Industry

Restaurant & Catering

Financial

Dairy

FRANK ROCHE SERVICES Units 1 and 2 Newberry Industrial Estate Mallow, Cork Ireland. P51KN36

Phone: 022 43324 Fax: 022 50296

www.frankrocheservices.ie

Excellence in Heating and Cooling Services Heat Recovery & Ventilation

Frank Roche Services comprises two companies - Frank Roche Air-conditioning Ltd and FRS Maintenance Ltd. The company was established in June 1996 by Frank Roche with over twenty years of experience working in the air-conditioning and ventilation industry.

FRANK ROCHE SERVICES Frank Roche Air Conditioning Ltd is responsible for designing, supplying and installing air-conditioning heating and heat recovery ventilation systems for the commercial and industrial sectors. FRS Maintenance Ltd is the follow-on service and preventative maintenance for all air conditioning heating and heat recovery systems plants to a wide range of valued clients and customers that require a backup preventive service and call-outs when equipment needs repairs or replacements. “Heat pumps entered the market around 1986, and I was trained with all the relevant and ongoing courses required to design and install various systems, from single splits to multi splits”, says MD Frank Roche. “The new and more sophisticated commercial and industrial systems like VRF and VRV offer simultaneous heating and cooling to hotel office and commercial buildings with full heat recovery for more efficiency and energy savings.

Due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic, the company has been very busy with schools, supplying and installing Hepa filter air purifiers and heat recovery ventilation systems to replace the air with good filtered fresh air without losing the heat already in the space, taking into account the cost of heating. “Heat and all energy costs are rising steadily, and we need to save where we can,” Frank says. Frank Roche Services provides these valued services for the HSE and OPW projects countrywide, and this is a large part of the firm’s overall workload. The company prides itself on providing and delivering a turnkey project from design to installation and maintaining all plant and equipment to get the customer the best value for money. The firm has won numerous awards over the years in business for supplier certification and accreditation, including Dealer of the Year in Heat Recovery 2002, City Multi-VRV Dealer of the Year 2003, GSK (GlaxoSmithKline) Health and Safety Site Award 2003, Mitsubishi

Electric Business Solutions Partners, Daikin Premium Partner, Dealer Partner & Recognition and Commercial Project of the Year Hotel Spa and Golf Resort 2018. Frank Roche Services has also received the Public Sector Magazine Excellence in Business Award every year since 2020. The company boasts more than 27 years in business and over 45 years of knowledge and expertise in design of complete heating and cooling, and heat recovery packages for various projects. “I believe you are only as good as your last project, so you need to make sure this is completed to the highest of standards”, says Frank. “Another valuable lesson I learned and good advice for anyone setting up in business, make sure you have a rainy-day fund because it is never smooth sailing in business; you will most definitely come across a situation that will challenge you, and you need to be prepared.”

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HIGH-QUALITY BUILDING SOLUTIONS Residential New-Builds Extensions and Complete Refurbishments Commerical | Education | Community Providing a complete service in-house from site clearance and groundworks through to landscaping and paving.

Member of The National Guild of Master Craftsmen

Allen Kenny Construction Ltd, Killina, Rahan, Tullamore, County Offaly.

Tel: 057 9355666 Mobile:086 6012857 Email: allenkennycon@gmail.com

Excellence in Construction Celebrating 15 Years of Business Top Contractor Award

Based in Rahan, County Offaly, Allen Kenny Construction Ltd has been a leading residential and commercial construction service provider for over fifteen years.

ALLEN KENNY CONSTRUCTION The company was created in 2007 during the recession, a bold move by Allen, who is a practical, solutions-driven founder who realised that it was possible for construction companies to thrive in a challenging economic climate if they gave customers what they wanted, high-quality work completed efficiently and sustainably. Since its inception, Allen Kenny Construction has earned an unrivalled reputation as a general contractor of choice with private and public clients. Allen and his team offer private clients a wide range of construction services from residential new builds, extensions and refurbishments, including a complete in-house service for site clearance and groundworks through to landscaping and paving. "We build high-quality, one-off, bespoke homes with a top end finish," says Allen. "We offer a complete build from start to finish, with a turnkey finish, and we can look after all the groundwork as we have our own plant and machinery." The company has completed projects for public clients that include a classroom extension at Killeen National School in Birr and an upgrade at Clonaslee College in County Laois. Allen's team also undertook

the construction of a new community centre as part of the LEADER programme, which was set up to support the local development of Ireland's rural areas. Allen has proven to be a hands-on founder, taking his previous skills as a carpenter and his natural affinity for working collaboratively with clients and applying them to achieve the project vision. "I'd be on-site myself most of the time," Allen comments. "Communication with the client is key as well as having flexibility – giving them options if they want to change anything along the way. We keep the client in the loop at all times. We make whatever changes they want to make. We go through these and discuss what the best options are. It's all about customer service, and you lend your experience so clients are in the best possible position to make decisions and get the outcome they deserve." For Allen, the journey from carpenter to full construction service provider was an organic one, "I just fell into it," he recalls. "I started doing refurbishments and extensions and on the back of that, I got a couple of oneoff houses. It grew from there and we kept getting work through word of mouth."

In fact, word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat custom are responsible for filling the Allen Kenny Construction order books, "All of my business comes through word of mouth; we have no Facebook page or social media presence and we don't really advertise. Reputation is everything in construction and you grow that by consistently producing quality workmanship," he adds. In addition to Allen himself, the company’s team consists of four full-time tradesmen who work alongside a tried-and-trusted team of proven subcontractors to deliver the consistently exacting standards demanded. “I do like a high-quality finish and having experienced, loyal staff plays a key role in keeping clients happy,” Allen remarks. The high quality of workmanship and attention to detail that is applied to every project has earned Allen Kenny Construction Ltd membership of The National Guild of Master Craftsmen. Although the construction industry is in the middle of challenging economic times again, Allen is upbeat about his company's future, saying, "There is still demand for quality construction and we have plenty of work ahead of us."

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Kieran O’Sullivan Construction Ltd are currently working on a €9.5m turnkey social housing development which consists of a mix of 1,2,3 & 4 bedroom houses, all of which will be A-rated and will assist in meeting demand for social housing in the area. The homes are due to be completed in 3 phases with the first 10 due to transfer to Cork County Council next year. The development also forms part of Cork County Council’s ambitious target under ‘Housing for All’ which will see almost 3,200 new social houses constructed across the county between 2022 and 2026.

Kieran O’SULLIVAN CONSTRUCTION LTD.

For more information and for all building enquiries:

087 9078075 klosllivan@gmail.com

Excellence in Construction House Building Specialists Southern Region

As a building company with over 23 years of experience, Kieran O’Sullivan Construction brings architectural plans from drawing board to life. From small extensions and renovations, to larger housing projects, the company covers all aspects of construction and development.

KIERAN O’SULLIVAN CONSTRUCTION Starting out with just two members of staff initially, Kieran O’Sullivan Construction launched in the year 2000. The company grew quickly through small house development projects which in turn, led to larger projects. After the boom of the Celtic Tiger era came the bust of recession, with the company facing obvious challenges due to the decreased demand for construction projects. Remembering those times, Kieran says: “During the recession and more recently the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction sector faced many difficulties, including the rising prices of material and labour.” As the economy recovered, the construction industry experienced growth and Kieran O’Sullivan Construction worked hard to grow along with it. Kieran describes how that happened: “We adapted and thrived.” Aside from economic ups and downs, the company faced other challeges, including the changing authority over water pipes on construction sites. Once the province of local authorities, responsibility for water pipes passed to Irish Water. Kieran notes: “This was a time which led to a grey area and it was extremely difficult to get the authorities on site and to get works signed off on time and this led to lengthy delays in work starting.”

As with many other industries, the building sector is subject to constant change and innovation, requiring construction companies to “keep up” if they want to survive and thrive. Kieran O’Sullivan Construction is no exception: “We are keeping up to date with the most recent building trends, replacing block work with ICF blocks for better insulation of buildings and keeping up-to-date with building regulations,” Kieran reports.

with quantity surveyors and architects and their ideas and input.”

Despite working in the construction industry for over two decades, Kieran admits: “The demand for housing, especially nowadays, is always surprising. Even in uncertain economic times it seems that we always need more homes.”

Kieran’s team is also a key ingredient in the company’s success and he is rightly proud as he remarks: “We have a great team on site and with communication, honesty and dedication we work well together.”

Company values are extremely important to Kieran and he believes, helps differentiate Kieran O’Sullivan Construction from its competitors: “We put the customer’s needs first, being responsive and attentive, and going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction,” he says. “It’s all about creating positive experiences and building longlasting relationships with our customers.” These relationships start with identifying the customer’s needs. Sharing his tactics, Kieran says: “We listen to what they want, juggle budgets and materials, alongside working

When asked what he feels the secret is to his company’s longevity in the construction industry, Kieran says: “Being in the construction sector for over 23 years, experience, efficiency and keeping up standards of the building regulations to a high level is key to sustaining longevity.”

Though economic times remain uncertain, the future is bright for Kieran O’Sullivan Construction. “At the moment we are constructing a 34-dwelling project aimed at providing affordable housing for Cork County Council,” says Kieran. “Being a large development, we expect to hand over the first phase very soon.” Kieran gives a pragmatic answer when asked about the greatest lessons he has learned in business: “You have to keep up-to-date with all new developments, businesses and building regulations, keep up-skilling and improving your product service.”

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Heavy Lifting Engineers

Unit 6, Red Cow Business Park, Naas Road, Dublin 22, Ireland, D22 TX28. T +353 (0)1 459 5500

www.gobriencranes.ie

Excellence in Crane & Fleet Services Crane & Lift Hire Company of the Year

As one of Ireland’s longest established crane hire companies, Gabriel O’Brien Crane Hire Ltd adopts an approach that blends modern engineering know-how with the knowledge and expertise gained from more than four decades of experience in the industry. As a result, the company can now boast one of the largest fleets in Ireland.

GABRIEL O’BRIEN CRANE HIRE LTD Founded in 1989 by Gabriel O’Brien with a single 15-tonne mobile crane on the books, the company has since grown to a size where it can boast over 50 models within its ranks. It continues to be a family business, with Gabriel now running the company alongside his son, Conor. Gabriel O’Brien Crane Hire has a hire portfolio ranging from 800-tonne mobile and 11350 crawler cranes to 3.5-tonne spider cranes that can be employed to fit in the tightest of spaces. These are applied in a wide variety of onshore and offshore industries, including construction, oil and wind energy sectors. The company offers a 24-hour-a-day comprehensive service, including free site inspection and the execution of lifts. Clients enjoy the confidence of detailed preplanning, with all work carried out by fully qualified operatives who have an unrivalled attention to detail. The engineering expertise of O’Brien Cranes is evident across the process of each lift. Gabriel remarks: “Our entire fleet of cranes

is kept in pristine condition and we have carried out a complete update within the last three years.” Gabriel O’Brien Cranes proves itself to be a forward-thinking company with a commitment to keeping its equipment up-to-date. Staying ahead of trends, and the competition, has led to the company owning Ireland’s only self-propelled modular transporter - a key piece of equipment for lifting projects. Conor says: “This is an addition to our fleet that enables us to be able to transport the massive hardware that’s often needed to complete complicated works.” Most of the work is done before any lift takes place. Gabriel explains: “We carry out a full site inspection and then create a detailed plan that includes Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS).” Gabriel’s team uses 3D CAD drawings to map out even the most complex of projects in detail. The company employs the most modern engineering expertise

to work around wind resistance, underfoot conditions and any other factors which may influence the lift, thereby ensuring that all work is completed in the most hassle-free, yet fully secure environment for its clients. Due to its detailed planning and proven track record, Gabriel O’Brien Cranes has been trusted with some of the most challenging projects across Ireland and the UK. The company’s staff are certified in both Ireland and the UK and are trained in manual handling and working at heights. Conor proudly notes: “Our team has a vast knowledge of lifting across a whole range of industries and an impeccable safety record. These attributes go hand-in-hand with the team’s attention to detail in both the preparation and carrying out of all lifts”. This wealth of experience and unparalleled professionalism combines to make Gabriel O’Brien Crane Hire Ltd the leading company who clients trust with their project lifts.

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Rathcorbally Construction Ltd BUILDING INTO THE FUTURE SINCE 2002 Monilea, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath Phone: 044 967 2509 E-mail: rathcorballyconstruction@gmail.com

www.rathcorballyconstruction.ie

Excellence in Business Construction Celebrating 20 Years

Servicing the commercial, residential, educational and healthcare sectors, Rathcorbally Construction Ltd of County Westmeath has been delivering high-quality building and civil engineering projects.

RATHCORBALLY CONSTRUCTION Founded in 2002 by Managing Director Seamus Greene, the company works with public and private sector clients as a main contractor on building, civil engineering, groundworks, restoration and renovation to existing and dilapidated buildings. Seamus and his core team of eight in the office have built up a reputation for delivering projects on time, within budget and to their clients' precise and sometimes fluctuating specifications and needs. This reputation ensures that a good percentage of their business is repeated or comes to them via word-of-mouth recommendations from happy clients. “Our management and staff are constantly updating necessary training, skills and compliances for the construction industry,” comments Seamus on his formula for staying ahead of the competition. He adds, “Our success is built on our belief that the client’s specific interests are always our number one priority.” Rathcorbally Construction is proud to hold membership with the industry's professional bodies, including the Sustainable Energy Authority (SEA), Construction Industry

Federation (CIF), Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) and Voluntary Construction Register (VCR). The Star Primary Care Centre in Blessington, County Wicklow, is a textbook example of the quality of work the Rathcorbally Construction team deliver. The centre features a steel-framed building with stone and glass cladding and external work including asphalting of access roads and car parking facilities with groundworks of augured concrete piles, piling platforms and ground beams. Another large project, the Presbyterian Church in Mullingar, is a 600m2 building of modern design that Seamus's team worked on in collaboration with architects Knox Markwell of Bangor. It's a structural steel erection with brickwork and a large glazed finish to flood the interior with light. As well as internal and external service connections, Rathcorbally Construction completed a full fit-out and decoration before turning their expertise to the outside where they undertook landscaping, street lighting and car parking. The result is a place of worship of exemplary quality delivered to timescales.

The company’s dedication to delivering to deadlines came to the fore on a project for the Medical Hall in Edenderry, County Offaly. The brief was to demolish the existing building, plus an adjacent structure, and replace it with a modern two-storey structure that could accommodate a medical hall on the ground floor with a beauty studio above. The catch was that it all needed to be done post-haste with a delivery date of 12th December for the hall to be open for the busy Christmas period. Seamus’s team built the structure out of reinforced concrete and steel, fitted all the mechanical and electrical services, completed a full fit-out and decoration and delivered a turnkey project to the client on the agreed deadline. The Rathcorbally Construction team is confident that 2024 will be another successful year for the company with full order books. This is a company whose dedication to professionalism and delivering high-quality construction work to a deadline, even if client requirements are detailed and subject to change, has ensured that it continues to grow and enjoy an enviable reputation with the Irish construction sector.

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Experts in all aspects of Track & Civil Engineering

Labour • Welding • Plant • Training Civil & Structural Engineering • Accreditation Unit 10 Osberstown Industrial Park, Caragh Road, Naas, Co. Kildare Tel: +353 (0)57 864 6067

www.gpxrail.com

Excellence in Public Sector Services Support Award Civil Engineering & Track Work

Specialising in civil engineering and track work projects, Irishowned company, GPX Rail, has grown from a solely Alumino Thermic welding company to one engaging in all aspects of rail and civil engineering.

GPX RAIL LIMITED Founded in 2008 by Irish industrialist Declan Carr, the company received its big break when Irish Rail enlisted its help, after a bridge across the estuary in Malahide, North County Dublin collapsed. Mick Hanley, who occupies the role of Operations Director at the company’s new headquarters in Naas, remembers that they were in the right place at the right time. “We formed a bridge team within the company to take on that particular job of repairing and maintaining bridges right around the country. This continues to be a key element of our work and has contributed substantially to the growth of the company over the years.” GPX Rail started with 20 employees but now has 130 people with the headcount, increasing on average by 15% annually. Other than Irish Rail, which remains a key customer and close partner, GPX Rail counts Dublin Bus, Translink, Tara Mines, Dublin Port, AQS and notable international companies such as Linmag International, Neopul and Schweerbau amongst their impressive client list. Mick reflects: “I’m very fortunate that I’m dealing face-to-face with a lot of the same customers I have known personally for the last 30 years or thereabouts.”

As its clients’ needs evolve, GPX Rail similarly keeps ahead of change. Irish Rail, now a client of some 15 years, is engaged in acquiring more passengers by providing more comfort and service frequency. Mick explains, “That leads to the need for upgrading existing lines and establishing new lines to allow for higher speeds, and that’s where we come in.”

GPX Rail meets all the requirements that are demanded of them by their clients, including the Irish Government and EU legislators, and the company is proud to hold certification for ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management and 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management.

Mick goes on to talk about what differentiates GPX Rail from its competitors, “Service is the key thing for us. The welding service is a nationwide service, but how we introduce it and how we use it is unique to us - with our inhouse training; the quality of our welders and the way we keep them fully up-to-date with new products and new equipment.”

“We are constantly monitoring and reviewing our process and procedures in order to achieve the highest standard in everything we do while reducing our impact on the environment,” Mick notes.

He continues: “The quality of our installation and maintenance work is second to none and is the core of our business, and because we run such a tight ship and keep our overheads as low as possible – without cutting corners – we can complement the expertise and reliability we offer our clients by offering a very competitive price when it comes to the tendering process.” One of the challenges in the industry is the size and complexity of the digital documentation required within hours of the completion of a job. In addition to numerous reports, a mountain of photographs is needed as backup, plus a myriad of other documentation.

There are some exciting future developments on the horizon for GPX Rail with a new, two million Euro, state-of-the-art facility in Naas, consisting of purpose-built offices, workshops, training and track training facilities predominantly constructed by our civils and building team. “We are very excited about our project in Nass,” Mick says. “It will give our company another major leg-up and hopefully take us to a different level.” Mick is duly proud of the positive feedback from his many high profile clients. “Exemplary and a credit to the commitment to keeping the railway safe and available for operations” Eamonn Balance – Irish Rail

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Padraig Folan Civil Engineering Ltd.

info@folancivils.com 091-551800

PFCE have earned their reputation for excellent quality work delivered on time through their dedicated and highly qualiﬁed management, technical and administrative teams who work closely with each

Padraig Folan Civil Engineering Ltd, Unit 1, Seaview House, Lettermullen, Co. Galway.

Excellence in Construction Civil Engineering Celebrating 20 Years

Padraig Folan Civil Engineering Ltd (PFCE) is a leading full-service civil engineering company based in County Galway that provides services for local authorities, utility companies, housing developers, and private residential and commercial clients.

PADRAIG FOLAN CIVIL ENGINEERING Established in 2003 by Managing Director Padraig Folan, PFCE initially focussed on civil engineering services for large-scale housing and commercial developments. Over time, the company expanded its service offering to encompass local authority and utilities work and, more recently, has extended its service portfolio to include commercial and residential hard landscaping and tarmac services as well as plant hire and grab truck hire. The construction industry and the broader economy went through very challenging times between 2008 and 2013, which PFCE had to navigate its way through as a company. Padraig and his team achieved this by prioritising long-standing business relationships, and that focus has remained a cornerstone of the PFCE approach to business. "Loyalty works both ways, and we continue to prioritise these relationships now," Padraig explains. A more recent challenge has been the shortage of skilled labour in the construction market, leading to challenges in recruiting and retaining personnel. Padraig expands: "We are fortunate with the talent we have attracted, and we are invested in maintaining

those relationships. As the external environment becomes more challenging, we find going back to basics is the key to our success: respect, open communication and loyalty with our clients, employees and wider stakeholders." PFCE work closely and collaboratively with their clients, giving guidance on how best to achieve the end vision. The company leverages its years of experience to identify any risks along the way and mitigate them so that the client's requirements are fulfilled from both the performance and aesthetic perspectives. Padraig notes that, in his experience, this close collaborative relationship and open dialogue leads to clarity, efficiency and ultimately enhanced client satisfaction. The company prides itself on being a family business, driven by deep core values of being the best it can be and embedding a growth mindset into all its activities. These values influence every activity area, from how the phones are answered to how plant and equipment are maintained and to the team's desire to leave each client's job as they would like to find it themselves.

Padraig is very clear that the retention, motivation and recognition of his personnel has always been core to the business ethos. He says: "We are very clear in the employee value proposition that we offer, and we deliver on our commitments. Open communication is crucial to developing and maintaining all relationships, and we invest time and effort in all of our employee relationships. We bring our core values to every interaction. Our highly skilled management, operatives and drivers are the lifeblood of our business and the company culture is that everyone is equally important." When asked about his biggest business lessons, Padraig reflects: "My greatest lesson has been to focus on the long-term goal when faced with a short-term challenge. We are a Galway-based company and we drive past projects we worked on in every corner of the city and county. I want to continue to be proud of every completed project, so when problems inevitably arise, I prioritise the bigger picture and focus on the longer road. Problems tend to fall into the right perspective and are more easily surmounted with that mindset, whether that's a timeline, a materials challenge, or wider economic uncertainty."

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Based in Cork, and covering all surrounding areas, Haven Electrical Ltd has over 10 years experience in the Irish electrical industry. We pride ourselves on exceeding customer expectations and delivering all work on budget and within the agreed time frame to the highest industry standards and we are happy to work on both small & large scale jobs.

We are fully qualiﬁed and deliver quality across a wide range of project types. These include all aspects of electrical work in the domestic & commercial sectors. Our guarantee is to provide you with a professional service with the highest quality of workmanship our minimum standard.

Call 0872576749 Today for a FREE no hassle quotation.

www.havelelectrical.ie

Excellence in Electrical Services Commercial, Industrial & Residential

Serving the Cork community for over 30 years, Haven Electrical Ltd is a leading electrical contractor offering services in the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors.

HAVEN ELECTRICAL LTD Director Stephen Kiely, is rightly proud of what his company has achieved over the last three decades. The high standard of work performed by his team of fully qualified electricians has contributed towards the company’s Business All-Star Accreditation and entry into The Register of Irish Business Excellence (TRIBE).

A typical commercial project, such as the recent one completed for a pharmaceutical company in Ringaskiddy, can involve large machinery and hazardous working situations. In the case of the Ringaskiddy site, several Health and Safety Officers were present to supervise the running of heavy cable across the plant at a height of 40 feet.

Stephen remarks: “We were delighted to be awarded All-Star Accreditation. Our team at Haven Electrical has worked extremely hard over the past years to grow the business and we see this award as a sign we are doing the right things.”

At the Cork Institute of Technology, Haven Electrical completed an upgrade to six classrooms with a full rewire; upgrade to LED fittings, dado and desk trunking, and returned to complete a second project to make 45 classrooms wheelchair-friendly, lowering light switches to regulation height and adding new emergency lighting to each classroom.

The company, which is Safe Electric approved, has a deep understanding of the needs of commercial customers, resulting in a significant amount of their business coming from repeat customers and word-of-mouth recommendations. “We know that, in many instances, electrical installation and maintenance work may need to be performed during normal business hours. Our staff wear a professional uniform and are timely, courteous and efficient to ensure there is the absolute minimum of disruption to our client’s business operations,” says Stephen describing his team’s commercial work.

In addition to installations, Stephen’s team undertake electrical periodic inspection and testing. He explains what is covered by such an inspection: “An installation could vary from a standard small 230 Volt, single phase electrical wiring system with distribution boards, lighting and general services, to, in certain instances, arrangements involving three-phase high-voltage switch-gear, transformers and associated parts of the electrical installation in a major industrial or commercial environment.”

On the domestic side, Haven Electrical offers its clients a full range of services, including full rewires, fuse board upgrades, underfloor heating, electric showers, intercom systems and all aspects of lighting for internal, storage, garden or security needs. “We also do a lot of work installing emergency lighting, intercom systems, fire alarms and mains smoke detectors,” adds Stephen. Haven Electrical is currently involved in a large residential project in Kilworth, where a multiphase development of 54 houses is being built. Currently working on the first phase of 10, four-bedroomed detached houses, his team are engaged in installing air-towater heating and full smoke and burglar alarm systems. Additionally, the company is designing the street lighting on the development in collaboration with a partner company. Stephen is upbeat about the future, with 2024 shaping up to be another good year for orders. “As a local company, we are proud of our customer service track record. Clients from all sectors come back to us again and again for all their needs,” he concludes confidently.

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co m m er ci al

l ia nt de si re Founded in 1992 providing technical backup and support to the construction industry in key areas including:

Residential Sector • Commercial sector Educational Sector • Industrial Sector Tel: (0) 21-4297672

Email: info@oslbutler.ie

www.oslbutler.ie 38 East Gate Drive, Little Island, Cork, T45 YO49

Excellence in Construction 30 Years Consulting Engineering Award

OSL Butler & Co is headquartered in Eastgate Drive, Little Island, Cork. The company was founded in 1991 and undertakes private and public sector projects, which include housing estates, apartments, commercial buildings, schools, and community development projects.

OSL BUTLER & CO CONSULTING ENGINEERS LTD OSL Butler & Co. provides a complete end-toend solution for building infrastructure projects including planning applications, design, supervision, management & inspection and setting out. They have extensive experience in large scale projects working across a range of sectors including housing estates, apartments, commercial buildings, schools and community development projects. “We recently celebrated thirty years in business and during this time we have provided civil & structural engineering solutions and architectural solutions to some of Ireland’s most significant building infrastructure projects including , Phoenix House Office Block in Cork, Elmbury Housing Estate in Cork, Scoil Colmcilles NS in Athlone, Bishopstown Community School in Cork, Deansgrange Apartments in Dublin, Charleston Woods Housing Development in Midleton & Glenlands Housing Development in Limerick, to name but a few,” explains Managing Director, David Butler. “Over the years we have forged successful working relationships, with some of lrelands leading building contractors including MOS Group, Homeland Group, Clancy Construction, Bridgewater Developments, Vella Homes, TFT Construction, Chriselle Holdings & Castlerock Construction amongst others.” OSL Butler & Co. is highly proactive when challenges and risks arise. “We meet

challenges head-on and make informed decisions swiftly. Each project we undertake will have a unique set of aspects, presenting new challenges and risks for the team. Clear communication between the team and our client base forges strong working relationships, which helps achieve the successful delivery of the project. This is backed up by rigorous policies and procedures that anticipate challenges and highlight and mitigate risks.

“We motivate our team by setting achievable goal-orientated targets, and we recognise and reward quality work. We are continuously re-assessing and updating policies such as working from home, parental leave, and holiday entitlements to ensure a happy worklife balance across the team. We believe that by rewarding staff for a job well done we will attract and retain a high calibre of staff to key positions within the organisation.”

Having clients at the centre of our focus enables us to meet their needs and requirements. We heavily invest in the upskilling of our team through regular training and personal development. This creates agility within the team, identifies strengths and highlights gaps which need further attention. We also encourage innovation within the team, which helps us stay ahead of market trends.”

OSL Butler & Co. holds a positive attitude and clear focus on young graduates seeking their first employment opportunity. The company believes in harnessing the abilities of the next generation of engineers, surveyors, and architects, giving graduates that all important entry-level opportunity in the work environment. OSL Butler & Co.’s unique working environment and business culture are well suited to help graduates quickly develop their skills into valuable workable abilities.

OSL Butler & Co. emphasizes the role its staff plays in the success of the business as outlined by Mr. Butler: “Brand is built on client relationships, and it is our staff who represent our brand daily. We never underestimate the significance and importance of the role of each individual team member representing our company. We promote positivity within the working environment with a culture of fairness and inclusivity. We engage and challenge our staff with new initiatives and encourage our team always to express themselves.

OSL Butler & Co. takes pride in developing client relationships which are built on trust and the delivery of a high-quality solution. The firm assigns an enthusiastic and professional team to manage,and undertake each project according to the guidelines, budget and timelines agreed upon with the client. By delivering on its core principles consistently and humbly, OSL Butler & Co. has developed its niche in the market.

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Seamus Walsh Plant & Agri Ltd

HIGH-QUALITY GROUNDWORKS AND CIVIL ENGINEERING PROJECTS

All employees are trained to a very high standard and are skilled, experienced, and dedicated workers who complete projects that not only meet, but exceed customers’ expectations, on time and under budget.

Tel: 086 157 6002 Email: s.walshgroundworks@gmail.com

Cregmore, Claregalway, Co. Galway.

Seamus Walsh Plant and Agri Ltd is a civils and groundworks contractor based in Galway with a nationwide operation.

Excellence in Construction Plant Hire Civils & Groundwork

SEAMUS WALSH PLANT & AGRI Since its inception in 2014, Seamus Walsh Plant and Agri Ltd, which began with three staff members, now employs 35 people and has achieved an annual turnover for 2022 reaching 2.5 million. Director Seamus Walsh explains how the firm overcame challenges over the years: “Our first obstacle was breaking into a competitive market; we started small and pushed hard to establish the business. The Covid pandemic also had a huge impact and during that time, we worked on a day-to-day basis. Thankfully due to the team’s hard work, we came out the other end.” Seamus also touched on how the firm stays current in an ever-changing environment: “We are always looking for new ways to work. Installing GPS on our excavators was one of the first steps we took a couple of years ago. We have recently purchased two vacuum excavators, which are the most modern, safe and efficient ways to excavate and have proved very popular with our customers. We pride ourselves on having the right men and

tools for each job, and we have modern, well-maintained machinery.” Top-grade machinery in the Seamus Walsh stable includes 12 Hitachi and two Kobelco excavators, six John Deere tractors, three Renault eight-wheel tippers, one Volvo 10-wheel tipper and another Volvo articulated truck. These, along with a Volvo A25 and the previously mentioned vacuum excavator. Other equipment includes rock breakers, grabs and sheet pile drivers. At Seamus Walsh Plant and Agri, customer service always comes first, and the team continually strives to do the very best for every customer. The firm stays on top of market trends, attends site meetings and listens to customer feedback. Seamus attributes much of the firm’s success to his staff, saying: “Without them you have nothing. We have a great group of men and women working with us and we appreciate their hard work and dedication.”

Seamus Walsh Plant and Agri is no stranger to winning awards. The firm won the Supply Chain Partner of the Year for Civils with John Sisk & Son in 2022. When you hire from Seamus Walsh Plant Hire & Agri, you’ll get much more than just a simple plant and machinery hire. As specialists in multiple industries and with the experience and expertise in creating solutions for the most sophisticated projects, the firm is fast becoming a number one choice throughout Ireland. Equipment can be used for industrial, event, construction, infrastructure and other projects, and the highly skilled team is always on hand to assist. With further expansion planned going forward, the future looks bright for this growing Galway firm.

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Over 25 years’ experience in construction Commercial and Domestic projects in County Mayo and surrounding areas. Large and small scale projects.

For more information or to get a quote on domestic or commercial builds please contact: chris@moranbrosbuilders.com

www.moranbrosbuilders.com

Excellence in Business Construction Regional West

Operating out of Drimneen, Co Mayo, Moran Bros Builders Ltd is a general building company specialising in building oneoff houses along with fit-out and civil engineering work on medium and large-scale building projects.

MORAN BROS The firm was established in 2018 by brothers Chris and Sean Moran, both with decades of experience in the building trade. Chris is a qualified civil engineer and Sean is an experienced carpenter.

The firm currently has two new build ICF (insulated concrete formwork) houses in its portfolio as well as new technologies in heating and ventilation systems.

“We started with a handful of employees, myself included, to now where we employ twelve full-time staff, including our other brother Paddy, five full-time carpenters and two apprentices, full-time block layers and stone masons, and full-time office staff. We build projects using the latest construction methods on-site and utilise off-site prefabrication where possible, which helps with construction times where labor shortages occur.”

The customer service philosophy of Moran Bros is clear. “There is an old saying in construction that you are only as good as your last job. We stand by that philosophy,” explains Chris. “We always do our best to get it right and are guilty of taking it personally if we don’t! For us, it comes down to a combination of different factors but above all, we deliver excellent work consistently. We’ve built up a great name and we do it right the first time. Our attention to detail is something the client appreciates, and we keep the lines of communication open all the time. We set out at the start of every project to build a good relationship with all our clients and design teams to achieve the desired results that everyone will be completely satisfied with.

Keen to remain current in an ever-changing marketplace Moran Bros keeps up to date with the most modern building techniques.

“At Moran Bros our in-house team is vital. Being able to depend on our team members’ different skills and utilising them

“When Sean and I partnered and set up our construction company together five years ago, we could hardly have envisioned its rapid growth in such a relatively short time,” says Chris.

is fundamental to the successful outcome of projects. I have personally worked with some staff members for over 10 years.” Moran Bros has an excellent range of diverse projects on its books from conservation to domestic to public works. The plan is to keep this trend going, continuing to diversify and not get pigeonholed into specific types of projects. A relatively young company, Moran Bros has undoubtedly made its mark on the Mayo construction industry landscape, offering an excellent service to its clients and continually innovating. The firm is a deserved winner of this Excellence in Business Construction Award - Regional West.

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ARKIL IRELAND | Civil Engineering | Road Surfacing

Building Stone | High PSV Aggregates |

| High Friction Surfacing

Driveways |

Our company, Arkil Ltd is operating in Ireland since 1988, producing many construction materials, with particular emphasis on road construction materials. Arkil Ltd has three quarries in Kildare, Cork and Kerry, where all types of asphalts, macadam’s, stone aggregates, natural stone, building stone, clause 804, high PSV chips, (Psv60, Psv65 and Psv70), high friction surfacing, anti-skid surfacing, sand, concrete and concrete blocks, (depending on the location) – all produced in accordance with the most up-to-date speciﬁcations and standards.

www.arkil.ie KILDARE | CORK | KERRY

Excellence in Public Sector Construction Services Support Award

Arkil Ltd is a subsidiary of Arkil Holding Ltd which, since 1988, has been a subsidiary of the Danish-owned Arkil A/S. Killeen Civil Engineering in Portlaoise is a sister company of Arkil Ltd, also owned by Arkil Holding Ltd and Arkil A/S.

ARKIL LTD The company’s main objectives are to produce and supply quality materials to the highest standards, with safety, quality, and protection of the environment, putting the public to the fore, at all times, while always meeting the important bottom line. Arkil Ltd is a producer of road materials, a civil engineering contractor and a quarry operator. Specialist works include drilling, blasting and crushing rock and supply and placing all stone products, as well as high friction surfacing, architectural stone, asphalts, macadams, concrete and concrete blocks. The firm additionally undertakes road construction and repairs, earthworks, drainage, services and plant hire, building contracting and project supervisory at construction stage. Arkil Ltd’s main contract business is large overlays with civil works included. The company’s clients include local authorities, TII, state bodies, main contractors and private individuals.

Arkil Ltd employs around 55 personnel, with an additional 100 subcontracted, operating in Kildare, Cork and Kerry. The Kildare site is a going concern purchased in 1988 – a limestone quarry close to Dublin city providing a range of stone including excellent Clause 804, building and architectural stone, asphalts and macadams. The Cork quarry also provides all types of stone, high psv (63), including railway ballast, surface dressing chips, building and architectural stone, asphalts and macadams. In Kerry, the sandstone quarry on the Dingle peninsula offers a range of stone, including high friction surfacing, building and architectural stone, concrete and concrete blocks. Each location has continued to grow in turnover and numbers employed since its purchase.

According to MD Seamus Mannion: “The main challenge to any company is the retention of good staff and the company has been very successful in that regard over some difficult times. A good team ensures that the company can evolve to meet current demands. The company is run as a team effort where all members feel part of the team.” Mr Mannion says that the major surprise in the industry over the last twenty years is how resilient it is and how most companies managed to adjust to many difficult situations as they arose. “Our company is mid-sized in the industry, which has many advantages, particularly in offering a more personalised experience for our customers,” he added. “We leave no stone unturned in satisfying all our customers’ needs.”

Thanks to good management, the company has continued to trade successfully throughout the recession and more recently, the pandemic and the continued war in Ukraine.

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CATHAL DOHERTY

Building Contractor Donegal’s Premier Building Contractors

Straleel, Carrick, County Donegal. For more information contact: Tel: 074 9739061 Mobile: 087 2468660 Email: cathal.j.doherty@gmail.com

Excellence in Construction Northern Region Celebrating 40 Years

Over the past four decades, Donegal based building contractor Cathal Doherty has earned himself an excellent reputation in the construction industry by completing a wide range of exceptional commercial and residential projects locally.

CATHAL DOHERTY A member of The National Guild of Master Craftsmen, Cathal Doherty is widely regarded as one of Donegal’s premier building contractors. Since setting up his own general contracting business almost 40 years ago, Cathal has completed a large volume of high-quality projects and he has a proven track record for invariably delivering construction excellence in both the commercial and residential sectors. A vastly-experienced and knowledgeable builder with a strong carpentry background, Cathal served his time working in Dublin before returning home to Donegal and going out on his own as a main contractor in 1984. “I started off doing renovations and one-off new builds,” he reflects. “I gradually started to take on commercial projects as well and today it’s a mix of commercial and domestic. Cathal had the distinction of building Oideas Gael, the Irish language centre in Glencolmcille, while Meenaneary Community Centre is another notable close-

to-home commercial project delivered early on. Remaining within close proximity, he has also carried out extension and refurbishment works at SeaQuest Systems’s engineering factory in Killybegs and was the main contractor on Sliabh Liag Distillers’ spectacular and sustainable new Ardara Distillery overlooking Loughrosmore Bay, which opened last year. Cathal Doherty Building Contractor began work on site at the distillery in October 2020 and Sliabh Liag Distillers completed their first distillation of whiskey at the new facility within a year. “The industry went into lockdown from January 2021 until the following April, but the distillery has been in production since October 2021 and we completely finished the first phase last year,” Cathal notes. Errigal Bay – Ireland’s largest processor of wild Atlantic shellfish – is another company Cathal has worked frequently for down through the years, completing a series of extension and refurbishment works on their

state-of-the-art processing facility in Carrick, where over 200 people are employed. The versatile Donegal builder has delivered a number of striking, high-spec homes overlooking the Atlantic in the past and is open to doing more if the right opportunities come along. “There’s plenty of work here locally at the moment and I can’t complain,” he says. “We’re very busy and you can’t do it all, so I’ve had to turn down some work, unfortunately, but generally we’ll take on any project that appeals to us. “I do like the commercial work as it is very interesting. That’s been keeping us going and things have been very busy for the last few years. There was the odd spell here or there where things got a little quiet, but they always picked up again fairly quickly.” Apart from one direct full-time employee, Cathal enlists the services of tried-andtrusted local subcontracting crews, with whom he enjoys strong long-term working relationships. “I’m lucky to have very good

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lads available to me and I’d bring in the same lads all the time. They know what I expect, and we have a good understanding built up at this stage.” The order book looks particularly healthy at present. As for the secret to his success as a main contractor for 39 years and counting, Cathal relates: “If you do a good job and are approachable, then that’s a good start. It’s about looking after people, really, and having good relationships with your customers. It’s important to always keep your word, to be reliable, complete the work on time and within budget, wherever possible. Of course, with the fluctuations in the price of materials, that hasn’t been easy recently. “There was a stage there where prices were increasing so much that suppliers would only give you a quote for that day. Things like that are out of our control. We had Brexit and then Covid and then the war and it felt like we were going from one crisis to another but hopefully things will start to settle down again now.” How challenging is it to keep meeting exacting standards year on year, without compromising on quality or letting standards drop? “You have to do it – there’s no other choice,” Cathal concludes, cognisant of the reality that every builder is only as good as

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his last job. “I would be very hands-on myself and you have to keep on top of things. We kept it steady during the boom and didn’t get carried away. That worked in our favour and the goal now is to keep things going and to continue focussing on quality.”

Sliabh Liag Distillers spectacular and sustainable Ardara Distillery overlooking Loughrosmore Bay.

It’s about looking after people and having good relationships with your customers. It’s important to always keep your word, to be reliable and to complete the work on time and within budget.

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