National Gallery of Ireland, Millennium Wing; Eileen Grey Exhibition, National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks; Interior Courtyard, European Commission Food and Veterinary Office, Grange, Co Meath.
Contents
■ Foreword from Minister of State2
■ Foreword from Chairman4
■ Management Advisory Committee6
■ Strategic Review 20027
■ Operations Review 200211
-Property Management Services12
- Facilities Management Services22
- Property Maintenance Services25
- Project Management Services26
- Architectural Services36
- Engineering Services39
- Government Supplies Agency43
- Corporate Services46
■ OPW Awards49
■ Financial Review51
- Expenditure Programme52
- Funding of Programmes54
- Architectural Service56
- Dublin Castle58
- Barretstown Castle Trust59
■ Staff and Senior Personnel61
■ Map showing distribution of OPW Offices throughout Ireland66
Foreword from Minister of State
In June 2002, I was appointed Minister of State at the Department of Finance with responsibility for the Office of Public Works. Since then, I have become very familiar with the OPW’s plans and projects and have taken part in the process to ensure that the organisation performs and develops in ways which serve the needs of the public and of Government.
I am also very proud of the wide range of specific projects undertaken in the last year by the OPW, which are detailed in this Report.
In particular, I would like to mention two important developments which commenced in 2002 – the transformation of the State property portfolio and the review of National flooding policy.
The transformation of the State property portfolio through site sell-offs, public private partnerships, joint ventures and land swap deals will revolutionise the portfolio and will provide the opportunity to unlock value and develop a modern, dynamic infrastructure.
The review of National flooding policy will examine the current approach to flooding and come up with a set of recommendations that will redefine the way we approach flood relief in Ireland.
Recently, the OPW has made great strides internally, by implementing a number of initiatives. Some of these initiatives include:
-New management systems resulting from the acquisition of ISO accreditation are spreading throughout the OPW as more and more Business Units and Divisions are awarded this important acknowledgement.
- Management changes recently have resulted in the appointment of an additional Commissioner in the Property service and the creation of a new post of Director of Corporate Services, leading to a greater emphasis on these areas.
- The OPW’s Statement of Strategy for 2003 to 2005, which maps the way forward in the period immediately ahead, has just been published.
These changes will ensure that the OPW remains focussed in the future on the pursuit of the best management and strategic options available and that it continues to provide excellent solutions to Government and to customers for property, design, construction, engineering and procurement.
I have been continually impressed by the capacity of the organisation to respond effectively to events and to implement solutions to the requirements of Government and its customers.
In particular, I would cite the manner in which the OPW dealt during the year with the demands imposed by severe flooding in several parts of the country, through its Engineering Services and Project Management Services Business Units.
I trust that readers will find this Report, which describes the OPW’s varied range of projects and services, both interesting and informative.
Tom Parlon, TD
Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works
Réamhfhocal an Aire Stáit
I Meitheamh 2002, ceapadh mé mar Aire Stáit sa Roinn Airgeadais le cúram Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí. Ó shin i leith tá sár-eolas faighte agam ar phleananna agus ar thionscadail an OPW agus tá páirt glactha agam sa phróiseas chun a chinntiú go bhfeidhmíonn agus go bhforbraíonn an eagraíocht ar bhealaí a dhéanfaidh freastal ar riachtanais an phobail agus an Rialtais.
Táim bródúil faoi leith as an réimse fairsing de thionscadal sonrach ar thug an OPW fúthu le gairid agus a bhfuil cúntas orthu sa Tuarascáil seo.
Go baileach, ba maith liom mion-thagairt a dhéanamh do dhá tionscnamh iomráiteach curtha ar bun sa bhliain 2002: tarfhoirmiú ar líon mhaoine an Stáit and ath-bhreithniú náisiúnta ar pholasaí tuillte. Tabharfaidh na h-aithruithe ar líon mhaoine an Stáit deis chun a luach a aimsiú agus ionfrastructúr nua-aimseartha bríomhar a fhorbairt. Chuige sin, díolfar suíomhanna agus úsáidfear comhphairtíocht phoiblí phriobháideach, comhfhiontar, idirbheartaíocht agus malartú talún chun na h-aithruithe suntasacha seo a chur i gcrích.
Cúram a bheidh ar Ath-breithniú Náisiúnta ar Polasaí Tuillte ná mion-iniúchadh ar mhodhanna reatha i gcursaí tuilte agus moltaí bunúsacha a dhéanamh ar córas oibre reatha i gcomhar feabhsú tuilte.
Deineadh dul chun cinn suntasach in Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí, le déanaí, trí tionscnaimh airithe a chur i gcrích. I measc siúd tá:
- Córais bhainistíochta nua ag leathnú tríd an OPW, mar thoradh ar an gcreidiúint ISO a bhaint amach, de réir mar atá an t-aitheantas tábhachtach seo á bhaint amach ag Aonaid agus ag Rannáin Ghnó.
- An tríú Coimisinéir ceapaithe sa Roinn Maoine, mar thoradh ar athruithe inmheánacha agus cruthaíodh post nua Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí Corparáide ag cur tuilleadh béime ar na réimsí sin.
-Foilsiú Raiteas Stráitéise na hOifige, 2003 go 2005, a leagann amach bealach chun cinn sa tréimhse atá díreach romhainn.
Cinnteoidh na hathruithe seo go bhfanfaidh an OPW dírithe ar na roghanna straitéiseacha agus bainistíochta is fearr a bhaint amach sa todhchaí agus go leanfaidh sé ag soláthar scoth -réitigh don Rialtas agus do chustaiméirí ó thaobh maoine, deartha, foirgníochta, innealtóireachta, agus soláthair de.
Tá cumas na heagraíochta chun freagairt go héifeachtach d'imeachtaí agus réitigh a thionscnamh de réir riachtanais an Rialtais agus a chustaiméirí imithe i bhfeidhm orm.
Ba mhaith liom, ach go háirithe, a lua an bealach inar phléigh an OPW le linn na bliana leis na héilimh a tháinig orthu de bharr tuillte géara i roinnt áiteanna sa tír tríd a nAonaid Seirbhísí Inealtóireachta agus na hAonaid Ghnó Seirbhísí Bainistíochta Tionscadail.
Glacaim leis go mbeidh suim ag léitheoirí sa Tuarascáil seo, a chuireann síos ar réimse tionscadal agus seirbhísí an OPW agus go mbainfidh siad leas as an eolas atá inti.
Tom Parlon, TD
Aire Stáit ag an Roinn Airgeadais le freagracht speisialta as Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí
Foreword from Chairman
It gives me great pleasure to present my first Annual Report as Chairman of the Office of Public Works.
I believe that this Report illustrates the strength of the organisation, the energy and creativity that we bring to our work, and our strong commitment to public service, the principles of excellence, customer service, and continuous improvement.
OPW has changed significantly in the past few years. This has brought considerable improvements in working practices and the delivery of services to our customers. This process of change will continue in the period immediately ahead, in line with strategic goals we have set ourselves in the Statement of Strategy 2003 - 2005, and in response to the demands of our customers, of the public and of Government.
I would like to thank the staff of the Office for their wholehearted participation in this process of change and to congratulate them on their achievements over the past twelve months. I look forward to their continuing support and commitment in the year ahead.
Seán Benton Chairman Office of Public Works
Réamhfhocal an Chathaoirligh
Is cúis áthais dom mo chéad Tuarascáil Bhliantúil a chur i láthair mar Chathaoirleach ar Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí.
Measaim go léiríonn an Tuarascáil seo neart an eagrais, an fuinneamh agus cruthaitheacht a thaispeántar in ár gcuid oibre. Léiríonn an Tuarascáil freisin ár ndúthracht chun tacú le seirbhís phoiblí, caighdeáin scotha, freastal ar an gcustaiméir agus feabhas leanúnach.
Tá athruithe suntasacha tagtha ar OPW le blianta beaga anuas. Dá bharr sin tháinig feabhas ar chleachtais oibre agus seachadadh seirbhísí dár gcustaiméirí. Leanfaidh an próiseas athraithe seo sa tréimhse amach romhainn ar aon dul leis na haidhmeanna strátéiseacha a leagamar amach dúinn fein sa Statement of Strategy 2003 - 2005 agus mar fhreagra ar thoil ár gcustaiméirí, an phobail agus Rialtais.
Ba mhaith liom buíochas a ghabháil le foireann na hOifige a gcuid rannphairtíocht ó chroí sa phróiseas athraithe agus iad a mholadh as an méid atá bainte amach acu le dhá mhí déag anuas.
Beidh mé ag braith go mór ar a gcuid tacaíochta agus dúthrachta sa bhliain atá romhainn.
Seán Benton
Cathaoirleach
Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí
Management Advisory Committee
Seán Benton Chairman
David Byers Commissioner
Clare McGrath Commissioner, Appointed January 2003
Michael O’Doherty Director of Architectural Services/Principal Architect
Tony Smyth Director of Engineering Services/Chief Engineer
Vincent Campbell Director of Corporate Services
strategic review 2002
“In line with the Public Service Management Act 1997, Section 4(1) (b), and following the change of Government in June 2002, preparations began for the publication of a new Statement of Strategy.”
Statement of Strategy
In accordance with Section 4 (i) (b) of the Public Service Management Act, this section of the Annual Report assesses the progress made against strategic targets during 2002 under the broad headings identified in the OPW’s most recent (1998) Statement of Strategy.
1.Quality Customer Service
The elements under this heading identified under the Strategy were:
a) The production of Customer Service Action Plans
b)The achievement of ISO 9002 accreditation by the Business Units
c)The development of Service Level Agreements with Customer Departments and Offices
d)The implementation of Customer Service Training programmes for all Business Units
a)Customer Service Action Plans
The Management Advisory Committee decided during 2002 that a new corporate-level Customer Service Action Plan would be devised to run in parallel with the next iteration of the Statement of Strategy. By the end of 2002, a draft plan had been produced ready for publication early in 2003.
b)ISO Accreditation
Work continued throughout the year in various Business Units on the measures necessary to achieve ISO accreditation. Structural Engineering Services attained accreditation in January 2002 and Arterial Drainage Maintenance Services of Engineering Services attained accreditation in late October 2002.
c)Service Level Agreements
Work progressed during the year on the preparation for the creation of a number of new Service Level Agreements, with the focus on planning for the new round of agreements under the forthcoming Statement of Strategy 2003 – 2005.
d)Customer Service Training Programme
Delivery of Customer Service Training proceeded at a reduced level throughout the year due to the emphasis on the delivery of Performance Management training in all areas.
2. Performance Measurement
The main themes identified in the Strategy Statement relating to this area were:
a) Preparation of accounts
b)Benchmarking of performance against other similar organisations
a)Preparation of Accounts
The Office has adopted a comprehensive set of Accounting Protocols to govern the publication of financial information from the various areas within the Business Units. These principles were published in the Annual Report of 1999 and form a significant element of the basis of the OPW’s financial reporting mechanisms. The planned introduction of the Management Information Framework will significantly inform the production of these accounts in the future.
b)Benchmarking
Work continued throughout 2002 to identify suitable benchmarking partners and strategies.
It was decided during 2002 that the forthcoming Statement of Strategy 2003 – 2005 will reaffirm the necessity of pursuing both the publication of more detailed accounts for each Business Unit and the preparation of suitable benchmarking exercises, including cross Business Unit studies.
3.Organisation and Support Services
During 2002, work progressed on the development of the newly-created Corporate Services structure to provide for a sustained renewal and replenishment of organisational supports for the Office. Future developments in this area will be detailed explicitly in the forthcoming Statement of Strategy 2003 – 2005.
4.Staff Training and Development
The emphasis in this area during 2002 was on the introduction of the new Performance Management and Development System (PMDS). Progress was also made on the general Staff Development programme.
a)Performance Management and Development System
It is planned that PMDS will be a key tool in regard to Human Resource Management. The delivery of appropriate training to prepare staff to participate in the system was therefore a priority during 2002.
A total of five days training in relation to PMDS was successfully delivered to administrative, professional and technical staff in the Office during the year. The full programme of training had been concluded by the end of the year and operation of the system had commenced in all Business Unit areas, in compliance with the terms of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. Future action will concentrate on embedding the system more fully into the day-to-day activity of the Office strengthening the links between it and the Business Planning process and extending the training for PMDS to industrial staff.
b)Staff Development Programmes
Work also continued in relation to general and task-specific training throughout the year. This is detailed separately under the Corporate Services heading later in this Report.
5.Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Information Society Initiatives
The development of ICT systems and infrastructures continued during 2002 under the direction of the Office’s IT User Group. Significant progress was made in implementing key strategic systems such as the Property Management System and the development of a number of e-Government projects as set out in the Office’s e-Government Strategy. A review also began in 2002 on the delivery and management of IT within the OPW, so that the best alignment of IT developments and the OPW’s strategic business objectives might be achieved.
6.Statement of Strategy 2003 – 2005
In line with the Public Service Management Act, 1997, Section 4 (1) (b), and following the change of Government in June 2002, preparations began for the publication of a new Statement of Strategy.
The new Strategy was discussed with Stakeholder groups through the medium of the Management Advisory Committee and the Partnership Committee and relevant themes and issues explored.
A draft Statement was prepared for the approval of the Minister for Finance by the end of 2002, with a view to publication early in 2003.
operations review 2002
“Delivery of clients’ and customers’ requirements involves managing the development of tender documentation, assembly and appointment of the design team, securing necessary planning permission, selecting contractors, overseeing progress on site and managing the costs of the projects.”
Property Management Services
New Information Support System for Property Management Services
Property Management Services (PMS) has introduced a new Information Support System which will play a dynamic role in the management of the Business Unit’s activities and objectives.
PMS required a unified single information system to support the Unit’s work function and the production of management and operational reports.
The project involved detailed analysis of PMS’s various information databases coupled with extensive workshops with the staff in PMS. This process produced the following ‘key deliverables’:
■ The definitive OPW Property/Lease Portfolio, uniquely coded and structured, which was a fundamental cornerstone in the new system framework
■ A suite of management and operational Reports
■ The system data range required to support PMS work processes
The OPW’s Property/Lease Portfolio, which is the largest in the State, is summarised as follows:
Number of Properties1,735
Number of State Owned Properties1,196
Number of Leased Properties539 ** Number of Buildings1,952
Number of State Owned Buildings1,361
Number of Leased Buildings591
Number of State Owned Sites51
Accommodation Leases506
Property Burdens (Licences etc.)300
Leases with OPW as Landlord450
** Certain properties have multiple buildings e.g. Dublin Castle
The core management areas that the system addresses are:
■ Property including -acquisitions, disposals and asset details
■ Leases including -payment of rent and service charges by way of electronic file transfer to Accounts Branch in Kilkenny
■ Accommodation including - client occupancy, space efficiency and potential.
The OPW user community has access to the information via a number of views (screens) which were built using Internet technology. These screens provide OPW staff with a user-friendly interface displaying the information. These screens support the following:
■ Multiple search functionality on properties/leases
■ A summary of core information
■ A ‘drill down’ framework - Property/Site/Building/Lease with payment history
■ Viewing plans (site or floor)/photographs/scanned documents e.g. leases
■ Reports – generation/viewing and local printing.
Cap Gemini Ernst & Young provided the project management consultancy; the software product chosen, following the tendering process, was Facility Center with Oracle as its underlying database. The OPW IT Unit provided technical and contract support.
The updating of the content of the software, Facility Center, is managed centrally by PMS Support Unit and a series of data input forms, designed as part of the project, support data flow.
PMS expects that the new information system will be an invaluable asset in the pro-active management of their business mission.
Property Management Services – Procedures Manual
In 2001 the work distribution in Property Management Services was radically adjusted to facilitate the provision of a more customer-orientated service. As a result,almost every member of staff was presented with new elements of property management work with which he or she was hitherto unfamiliar. To ensure that work standards should not suffer and that consistency of operation was maintained across the Service, it was decided to document work procedures comprehensively.
To comply with overall OPW strategy, it was decided that these procedures should be developed to a standard which would allow Property Management Services to proceed ultimately to ISO accreditation.
It was immediately recognised that, in order to achieve optimum results, all Property Management Services staff should be involved in the process and given the opportunity to make a real input. This approach would not only foster a sense of ownership amongst staff but also tap into the vast repository of knowledge which lies with those who carry out the work of the Service from day to day.
In line with this approach, a two-day workshop was held in February 2002 involving the entire management and staff of Property Management Services. What emerged from the workshop formed the backbone of a new and comprehensive Procedures Manual which, once completed, would
■ serve as a guide to those already working in Property Management Services
■ be a useful training tool for new staff
■ be a creditable document with which to proceed to assessment for ISO accreditation
The first draft of the Procedures Manual was issued to all Property Management Services staff in May 2002. This contained draft procedures for all core functions and, although it was not yet finalised, staff were encouraged to apply the manual as much as possible in their daily routine. This acted as both a familiarisation process and an opportunity to elicit feedback on the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the procedures as printed.
By the time the second draft of the manual was issued in September, 2002, it was virtually complete in terms of the number and scope of procedures to be included. It also included checklists and forms to facilitate the operation and verification of the procedures.
At this point the procedures were subject to audit by trained quality auditors drawn from Property Management Services staff. These audits are designed to test both the extent and consistency of compliance throughout the Service and the accuracy and adequacy of the procedures themselves. This audit process will be an ongoing feature in Property Management Services as is required if the ISO 9001 Standard is to be met. Additional auditors will be trained for this purpose in 2003.
By the end of 2002 the first formal edition of Procedures Manual had been printed, ready for issue to staff early in 2003.
Work also began on the drafting of a Quality Policy Manual. Once again this was in line with the requirements of the ISO 9001 Standard and, when added to the Procedures Manual and Audit process, should provide a fully documented management system which will allow Property Management Services to apply for ISO accreditation early in 2003.
School Site Acquisition Programme
In 2002 there was a significant leap forward in the operation and scope of this programme which was established in 2000. As an increase in funding by the client, the Department of Education and Science, mandated an acceleration of delivery of site purchases. In all sixteen cases were brought to conclusion of agreement to purchase within the year. This represented some 25% of the programme portfolio and a programmes spend of over €14m. Of these, seven cases were progressed to completion of purchase on behalf of the Minister for Education and Science, providing development sites in the following locations:
■ Durrus, Co Cork
■ Ballyoughter, Co Wexford
■ Newbridge, Co Kildare
■ Ballincollig, Co Cork
■ Tramore, Co Waterford
■ Ballytarsna, Co Tipperary
Of note in 2002 was the fast-tracked purchase of the former Sundai Japanese school in Newbridge, Co Kildare for €6.3m. This represented a substantial discount on the cost of providing a new build facility to similar specification. The purchase was completed within six months of the original client request. The facility comprises 2.97 hectares (7.35 acres) of landscaped sylvan grounds, 4,200 sq m (45,000 sq ft) of high quality purpose-built educational accommodation and 400 sq m (4,400 sq ft) of ancillary outbuildings. The extent of accommodation sets a new standard in the Irish primary school sector.
| above | Kildare Gaelscoil
Site Acquisitions 1 January – 31 December 2002
Garda Site Acquisition 2002
Property Management Services completed a very successful year in acquiring sites for Garda Stations in different locations. These acquisitions, carried out to facilitate the ongoing Garda Building Programme, range in location from small rural villages like Abbeyfeale in Co Limerick to Kevin Street in Dublin City Centre. This strategically located site, acquired from Dublin City Council, will accommodate both a new Divisional Headquarters for the Gardaí and a city centre mixed-use development.
LocationPrice paid €
Co Donegal - Buncrana Garda Station 119,991
Co Donegal - Muff Garda Station152,368
Co Dublin - Kevin Street2,856,911
Co Dublin - Kill o’ the Grange1,100,000
Co Galway - Ballinasloe Garda Station30,500
Co Kildare - Leixlip Garda Station598,250
Co Limerick - Abbeyfeale Garda Station182,842
Co Limerick - Kilfinane Garda Station88,882
Co Mayo - Ballina Garda Station774,540
Co Mayo - Bangor Erris Garda Station40,632
Co Sligo - Ballymote Garda Station770,000
Total 6,714,916
New Leases Dublin Acquisition 1 January – 31 December 2002
LocationDateArea in sq mNo of Car DepartmentRent per annum Parking Spaces €
Building at Aer Rianta, 09/01/021,190.790Justice, Equality and 565,257 Dublin AirportLaw Reform
Ardilaun House, 18/01/022,814.4020Revenue Commissioners1,098,323 St Stephen’s Green, and Justice, Equality Dublin 2and Law Reform
New Leases Provincial Acquisition 1 January – 31 December 2002
LocationDateArea in No of Car DepartmentRent per annum sq mParking Spaces €
Liosban Business Park, Galway01/01/02460.230Garda Síochána65,899
Marina Commercial Park, Cork12/01/02408.76N/ARevenue Commissioners28,600
Paul Quay Car Park, Wexford15/01/02N/A30Multiple Tenants28,500
Maynooth Agriculture Office, 01/02/024,866.10211Agriculture and Food940,626 Block B, Maynooth Business Campus, Co Kildare
Newcastlewest Probation/01/02/02305.486Justice, Equality 39,613 Welfare Office, Co Limerickand Law Reorm
Social Welfare Office, 14/02/02430.800Social and Family Affairs81,263 12 The Square, Listowel, Co Kerry
Rosslare Harbour Government Offices, 21/02/0261.600Revenue Commissioners10,860 Port Terminal, Rosslare Harbour, Co Wexford
Rosbrien Road, 01/04/021,432.7738Education and Science1,412 Punches Cross, Limerick
Oak House, Bessboro Road, 01/04/02372.000Marine and Natural 53,320 Blackrock, CorkResources
Galway Environment Office, 01/05/02290.004Environment and 47,087 3 The Plaza, Headford Road, GalwayLocal Government
Crawford Hall Car Park, Cork27/05/02N/A30Social and Family Affairs45,000
Dundalk Garda/Immigration Office, 01/06/0256.000Justice, Equality 1,905 Dundalk Railway Station, Dundalk, and Law Reform Co Louth
C&E Centrepoint, Unit 4, 01/12/021,043.006Revenue Commissioners3,500 Centre Park Road, Cork
Ballinrobe GS Temp, Glebe Street, 01/08/02148.640Justice, Equality 6,760 Ballinrobe, Co Mayoand Law Reform
Navan SWO, Kennedy Road, 01/08/02938.780Social and Family Affairs224,562 Navan, Co Meath
Waterford Harbour, Belview Port, 14/10/02N/A0Agriculture and Food8,712 Waterford
CCO House, Industrial Estate, 01/12/02343.750Education60,947 Drogheda, Co Louth
Leggettsrath, Co Kilkenny03/02N/A0Justice, Equality 183,991 and Law Reform
Total11,157.913251,832,557
Disposals Provincial 1 January – 31 December 2002
Kanturk Garda Residence, Freemont Road, Co Cork01/11/02123.27Justice,
Provincial Surrenders 1 January – 31 December 2002
Warehouse at Harbour Dock, Galway26/04/02N/ARevenue
1st Floor, Demesne, Dundalk31/07/02872OPW12,380
Ground Floor Store, Demesne, Dundalk13/09/021,200Revenue 6,349 Commissioners Unit G2, Marina Commercial Park, Cork15/12/024,400Revenue 28,600 Commissioners
Total6,47270,184
Market Analysis
The slowdown in the Irish commercial property market, first noted in 2001, continued in 2002, particularly in the office sector. Vacancy rates continued to climb from their historic lows of 2000 to over 10% by year-end. In particular, the increasing vacancy rate in Dublin’s suburban office parks, over 18%, continued to be a mitigating factor on rental levels. This weakening of the market was evidenced by enhanced incentives on the part of many landlords. Current market predictions are that the increased vacancy rate may persist for some time. The OPW was active in the market for office space in Dublin, continuing its objective of taking best advantage of the changing market conditions in the leasing market.
Management of Vacant Space
Apart from the acquisition of new space, the Property Management Services Business Unit in the OPW is also concerned with ensuring the efficient utilisation of existing office accommodation. In this way the need to go to the market for additional office space is minimised. One of the principal activities in the ongoing management of the portfolio is the regular monitoring of vacant space and its reallocation where appropriate. At end of 2002, the vacancy rate in the portfolio was approximately 1%. Where vacant properties are found to be surplus to requirements they are disposed of in a manner designed to achieve the best possible value.
Rental Market
The OPW continued to be an important operator in the market in 2002. It used its weight in the market to secure the best leasing terms possible.
Prime rental levels in the city centre of Dublin stabilised at around €500 per square metre. By the end of 2002, the take-up of office space in the Dublin area was approximately 180,000 sq m with increased incentives in city centre office locations in an effort to prevent a move by companies to cheaper suburban locations.
The following gives an indication of the range of rents paid by the OPW for new space acquired in 2002 in the Dublin area:
16 Parnell Square, incl. 55 car spaces3,458.201,493,644431.91
Ardilaun House, incl. 20 car spaces 2,814.40549,161195.12
2-4 Merrion Row, incl. 5 car parking spaces1,023.50422,292412.59
Ashtown Gate, Navan Road6,255.001,387,160221.77
Rent Reviews
It is the policy of the OPW to conclude rent reviews by way the normal process of negotiations. The use of rental evidence of similar properties in comparable locations forms the essential analytical tool for the subsequent negotiation process. If no agreement is achieved within the parameters of the market evidence, it is OPW policy to have the case referred to third party adjudication.
The outcome of rent reviews, which fell due in 2002 was in line with market evidence through the year and averaged a rate of €347 per sq m for second-generation space in Dublin city. The pattern of rent reviews normally follows a five-year cycle. The most significant reviews were the following Dublin properties:
Gandon House Part of 2nd Floor374 3rd and 4th Floors 326 Dolphin House317
76-78 Harcourt Road369
Facilities Management Services
The Facilities Management Unit is primarily responsible for the operational management of a number of prominent State properties which provide facilities for State functions and hospitality. The management of Dublin Castle and its Conference Centre and Farmleigh forms the core of the Unit. Other properties managed by the Unit include Arás an Uachtaráin, the Marlborough Street complex of the Department of Education and Science and the North Range of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham. While the nature of the service may vary depending on the character of the property, it typically includes grounds maintenance, security, event management and general co-ordination of all necessary services for the upkeep and running of the properties. The Unit also carries out an important management role in relation to conservation issues relevant to the historic properties and their contents.
In addition to the management of the historic State properties, the Unit also has a role in relation to planning and co-ordinating the provision of facilities management services at a number of key new developments such as the new Department of Agriculture and State laboratories at Backweston and the Northside Civic Centre at Coolock.
Dublin Castle
During the year, 156,600 people visited the State Apartments, participating in approximately 7,600 individual guided tours.
Dublin Castle hosted 528 events during the year. The nature of these events was extremely varied, ranging from State dinners to international conferences, music concerts and art exhibitions. The total attendance at these events was in the region of 150,000.
| above left | Department of Agriculture and Food and State Laboratories, Backweston | above right | Farmleigh House
Farmleigh
Farmleigh enjoyed its first full year of operation in 2002. Residential visits included those by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, the German Minister of Finance, the President of the Republic of Latvia, the President of Slovenia and the President of Nigeria.
Almost 53,000 people visited Farmleigh during 2002 under the public access programme. The Estate was open on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from Easter Sunday, 31 March until the Bank Holiday Monday on 28 October 2002. Guided group tours were provided during weekdays throughout the year with 309 groups availing of this facility including special interest groups visiting the Library specifically or the paintings in the House.
A variety of different events for the benefit of the public were held during the year, including concerts by the National Symphony Orchestra and the Macnas production, Gráinne Mhaol
The Royal Hospital, Kilmainham (RHK)
In its first full year of operations following recent refurbishment, the RHK hosted 86 events during the year with a total attendance of approximately 25,000 people. The Irish Museum of Modern Art, which is housed in the RHK, attracted around 294,000 visitors.
Department of Education and Science, Marlborough Street
Facilities Management again expanded its operations this year to provide certain services at the Department of Education and Science campus at Marlborough Street. Initially concentrating on the provision of primary building maintenance and security, the level of service will be reviewed regularly in consultation with the Department.
Northside Civic Centre, Coolock
Facilities Management took charge of the Northside Civic Centre in November 2002. Arrangements are being made, in consultation with the State sector and voluntary and community group tenants, to develop a facilities management package that will best suit the needs of the building and its users. It is hoped to have the Centre open to the public in Spring 2003.
Department of Agriculture and Food and State Laboratories, Backweston
Planning and preparation commenced during the year, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Food and the State Laboratory, on the process of developing a brief of facilities management requirements for the new, state of the art laboratories at Backweston, Co Kildare and selecting a facilities management agent who will be responsible for the day to day operation of the complex.
Exhibitions and Events during 2002 in the Atrium, 51 St Stephen’s Green
4 - 30 JanuaryOPW Art of the State Exhibition
1 - 25 February2Cool Design – Furniture exhibition from Sweden
1 - 19 MarchExhibition of Interiors and Crafts from the Irish Craft Council of Ireland
21 March - 11 AprilArt Exhibition by 3rd Year Students from DIT Ballymun Regeneration Ltd.
16 April - 1 MayAAI – Architectural Association of Ireland Awards
1 May - 1 JuneExhibition of work by Enric Miralles, architect, from Barcelona
4 - 21 JunePatchwork Society of Ireland Exhibition
30 September - 30 OctoberOPW Design for All Exhibition
1 - 14 NovemberArt Exhibition by Service to Prisons
18 November - 2 DecemberArt Exhibition from Sea Court Print Workshop, Northern Ireland
21 DecemberChristmas Concert by Ms. Grainne Hope
6 - 30 DecemberArt Exhibition by artist Richard Moore ‘The Boyne Valley Envisioned’
Property Maintenance Services
Summary Report of Expenditure by OPW
Property Maintenance Services in 2002
This table shows expenditure on contract work managed by Property Maintenance Services, excluding Health & Safety Works.
work done by OPW for Departments4,966,000
Total 96,525,000
Reorganisation of the Property Maintenance Service
A pilot programme of Measured Term Maintenance contracts is being put in place in the Dublin region in 2003. This is a new departure in the way maintenance of the property portfolio is handled. It is intended to have the first of these contracts in place by mid-2003, with work ordered through a centralised Services Desk, giving clients a single point of contact for ordering minor work through the Office.
The Office of Public Works has also drawn up proposals for the future role and operation of the Building Maintenance Service and will include assignment of staff to work on heritage properties and also continue to carry out scheduled maintenance works as required.
The reorganisation of the Building Maintenance Service has also included the transfer in 2003 of its operations at Pembroke Row, Baggot Street, Dublin 2 to new accommodation at Collins Barracks, Dublin 7.
Project Management Services
Project Management Services (PMS), with the assistance of the OPW’s Architectural and Engineering Services and such private sector professional disciplines as may be required, manages the delivery of new construction, refurbishment, conservation and major maintenance projects on behalf of the OPW and its clients and customers.
Project Management Services articulates, in detail, the clients or customers brief of requirements in order to assist in delivering these on time, within budget and to the highest architectural and engineering standards, in compliance with Government and EU Procurement procedures.
Delivery of clients and customers requirements involves managing the development of tender documentation, assembly and appointment of the design team, securing necessary planning permission, selecting contractors, overseeing progress on site and managing the costs of the projects.
Department of Social and Family Affairs Programme
Expenditure in 2002 was €17,404,000 and the overall value of the current works in planning or in progress for the Department is €54,222,137.
CompletedIn ProgressIn Planning
Social and Family Affairs Office,Goldsmith House, Dublin – Cobh local office –Arklow – Refurbishment andRefurbishmentRefurbishment and new extension extension
Northside Civic Centre, Con Colbert House, Dublin –Sligo – Extension to Pensions Coolock – provision of newRecladding, incorporating Services office accommodation for Dept ofnew windows and provision Social and Family Affairs of new roofs to both local office and a numberbuildings of other State, voluntary and Community groups
Bishop’s Square – Social and Family Affairs Castlebar – Construction of Office fit-outOffices and Court new Government offices to Facilities Navan – fit-outinclude Department of Social and Family Affairs Local Office
Dungloe – Office fit-outBallymun – Construction of new local office
Longford – Office refurbishment
| above left | Northside Civic Centre
| above right | Kilrush Garda Headquarters
Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform – Garda Building Programme
New Garda stations at Ballycotton, Ballymore, Ballina, Ballinrobe, Ballyshannon, Bantry, Castlerea, Claremorris, Clifden, Cobh, Dundalk, Kilmacthomas, Kilrush, New Ross, Roundstone, Templemore, Thomastown and Tourmakeady were on site or at an advanced stage of planning.
The Command and Control Centre in Harcourt Square was refurbished and planning proceeded on special developments at the Garda Depot for Schengan and at Santry for the National Repository. The special Drugs Unit at Blanchardstown Garda Station was completed.
Court Service Programme
Expenditure in 2002 was €2,626,731 and the overall cost of the programme is €74,051,410.
Judges’ Library, 2nd floorNewcastlewest, Co Limerick Áras Uí Dhálaigh –Refurbishment
Four Courts, East Wing –Tullamore, Co Offaly Refurbishment
Nenagh, Co Tipperary
Cork City and County Courthouse Ballyshannon, Co Donegal Bray, Co Wicklow
Special Projects Programme
The Special Projects Unit, with the assistance of the OPW’s Architectural and Engineering Services and such private sector professional disciplines as may be required from time to time, manages the delivery of a wide variety of new construction, refurbishment, conservation and major maintenance projects on behalf of the OPW and its clients and customers. These projects and their current status are outlined below.
In addition, the Unit provides technical assistance and advice to the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism in respect of the €63 m. National Aquatic & Leisure Centre at Abbotstown and the proposed development of a National Stadium. The Unit also acts as Technical Advisors to Enterprise Ireland (EI) in procuring a Design Team to prepare a detailed plan and design of a single headquarters of some 100,000 sq ft at Glasnevin. Staff are currently in a number of different Dublin locations.
The most significant development for the Unit in 2002 was the placing of contracts for the new laboratories at Backweston – the largest projects ever undertaken by the OPW, with a combined projected total cost of nearly €200 m. Work commenced on site in April and both projects are currently within programme and budget.
Total expenditure by the Unit in 2002 was €28,100,000.
Fit-out of Temporary Food Relocation of the Department Relocation of the Marine Institute Safety Centre for the of Agriculture & Food to Galway Department of Agriculture Laboratories (Agrilabs) from and Food at Maynooth Abbotstown to Backweston Business Park
Waterford North Quays Relocation of the State Provision of accommodation for International Architectural Laboratory from Abbotstownthe Department of Finance at and Urban Design Competitionto Backweston7-9 Merrion Row
Fit-out of 2-4 Merrion Row, Dublin for the Department of Finance
In Planning
Proposed development of John’s Road (OPW/Eircom owned) site and Military Road site (owned by OPW)
Temporary relocation of the Central Fisheries Board from Glasnevin
Provision of a Venue Building at Waterford North Quays
Development of 5-7 Merrion Square for Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS)
Provision of a permanent Food Safety Centre, for the Department of Agriculture and Food, at Backweston
Department of Agriculture and Food Farm Facility at Longtown
Permanent relocation of the Central Fisheries Board
Relocation of the Ordnance Survey Office from Phoenix Park
Relocation of the Department of Health’s Public Analyst’s Laboratory to Backweston
| top | Winning Entry, Waterford North Quays International Architectural & Urban Design Competition
Office Rationalisation Programme
Expenditure in 2002 was €10,990,000 and the overall cost of the programme is estimated at €109,827,893.
CompletedIn ProgressIn Planning
Dept of Foreign Affairs, IveaghDept of Foreign Affairs,Dept of Foreign Affairs, Iveagh House (Phase A) refurbishmentIveagh House (Phase B)House (Phase C) refurbishment
Dept of Foreign AffairsNew Passport Office, Balbriggan Harcourt St refurbishment
Hawkins House refurbishment
Core areas and universal access Lansdowne House refurbishment
Data Protection – Irish Life Centre fit-out
Dept of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mespil Road –refurbishment
New OPW Workshop, Ballina
Dept of Environment and Local Government, Custom House, relocation of entrance
Dept of Environment and Local Government, Custom House, new lift and refurbishment of Assistant Sec. rooms
In addition the Office undertook work on a repayment basis for other State Agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency. Among the completed projects was a new laboratory complex at the UCD Campus. The expenditure for this work in 2002 was €3,403,878. The overall cost of the programme is estimated at €7,7 11,000.
The programme includes a new project for the Environmental Protection Agency in Kilkenny, the fit-out of offices in Dublin for the National Children’s Office and the Mental Health Commission.
| above left | Island of Ireland Peace Park, Messines, Belgium
| above right | Library, Irish College, Paris
International Programme
Expenditure in 2002 was €6,650,900 and the overall cost of the programme is estimated at €28,657,639.
CompletedIn ProgressIn Planning
Restoration and completion Refurbishment of St. Isidore’s Refurbishment of the Institute of the Island of Ireland PeaceIrish College, Romefor Ireland College at Louvain, Park at Messines, BelgiumBelgium
Refurbishment of the Irish College, Paris (Centre Culturel Irlandais)
Office Accommodation
Three outstaning new buildings, designed by OPW architects, were completed during 2002:
■ The new Custom House at the Dublin Docks for the Offices of the Collector, Customs and Excise and the Revenue Commissioners
■ The Coolock Community Centre for the Department of Social and Family Affairs and eight local services
■ The external and internal refurbishment of the Government Offices at The Glen, Waterford City.
The crèche at the Department of Education and Science complex was ready for occupation at the end of the year 2002. Tenders for the final phase of this complex were invited for the refurbishment of Tyrone House, one of the most prestigious State properties.
A new building at Burgh Quay was fitted out for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department of Foreign Affairs for Asylum Seekers’ services. Avondale House at the corner of Parnell Square and Findlater Church has provided accommodation for a number of Departments including bodies set up under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach.
Decentralisation
The final project in the Decentralisation Programme at Roscommon, mainly for the Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture and Food, was submitted for planning permission.
A small landscaping scheme, to celebrate twenty-five years in Athlone for the Department of Education and Science, was begun.
Special Services
Extensive programmes for special services have emerged throughout the year and a number of projects are at planning and pre-tender stage:
■ The Probation and Welfare Service – Donaghmede, Cork, Limerick
■ The Psychological Service for the Department of Education and Science – at Limerick, Galway
■ The Marine Emergency Services – Tramore, Oysterhaven, Ardmore
■ Regional veterinary laboratories for the Department of Agriculture and Food – Coosan and Kilkenny.
The National Monuments Depot at Mallow, Co Cork, was completed and work commenced on the conservation of Elizabeth Fort at Barrack Street, Cork.
Oireachtas
Electronic voting was installed in the Dáil Chamber. A new reception centre for use by visitors to the Houses of the Oireachtas and by Members and staff for video presentations was completed. Planning was put in hand for electronic voting in the Seanad.
Projects for Agencies
PMS provided Project Management services for the refurbishment of a new Headquarters for the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland at Warrington Place, Dublin 2.
Project Management and Architectural Services for the building programme for Teagasc continued, with work proceeding at Moorpark, Fermoy; Oakpark, Carlow; Johnstown Castle, Wexford and Dunsinea, Castleknock, Co Dublin.
| above | Electronic Voting, Dáil Eireann
Dúchas Programme/Cultural Institutions
€15.206 m was expended in 2002
CompletedIn ProgressIn Planning
National Gallery of Ireland
Restoration of the Palm House,Refurbishment of 5 South Millennium Wing Botanic Gardens, GlasnevinLeinster Street for the National Gallery of Ireland
Works on fire safety and Refurbishment of 4 Kildare Central Block/East Wing, accommodation rationalisation Street for the National LibraryCollins Barracks, National at National Concert Hallof IrelandMuseum of Ireland
Improvements to the stage Installation of sprinkler systemRefurbishment of the Riding lighting at National Concert Hallin 5 Kildare Street for National School, Collins Barracks, Library of Ireland
National Museum of Ireland
Restoration (3 sides) of Refurbishment of lifts in Royal Military History Exhibition, St Stephen’s Green perimeter Hospital KilmainhamCollins Barracks, National pathsMuseum of Ireland
Refurbishment of Clarke Square Re-roofing St Enda’s, RathfarnhamJames Joyce Exhibition for South East, Coins and Medals National Library of Ireland Exhibition and Eileen Gray Exhibition, National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks
Killarney National New playground, People’s Refurbishment of East Wing Monuments DepotGardens, Phoenix Parkand Central Block of National Library of Ireland
Sligo Abbey Visitors CentreOffice accommodation, Extension of Visitor Centre in Whitefields DepotÁras an Uachtaráin
Dunmore Cave Visitors CentreGardeners’ Yard, Refurbishment of 44-45 Merrion Kilkenny CastleSquare for the Irish Architectural Archive
Fire and Security works for the Royal Hospital Kilmainham Complex security for National Concert Hall
| above | National Gallery of Ireland, Millennium Wing
Flood Relief Programme
The programme of Flood Relief Schemes is managed by the OPW under the Arterial Drainage Amendment Act, 1995. It consists mainly of urban flood relief schemes which are carried out on behalf of local authorities. The programme has grown substantially in the past few years in response to demands from local authorities and increased incidences of flooding.
Emergency works were carried out at Annagasson Co Louth and Dublin (Tolka) arising from flooding in 2002. Works were also carried out Maynooth arising from previous flooding. Technical support was provided in relation to a number of flood relief schemes in planning including Mallow, Fermoy, Ennis and Tuam and schemes at construction stage including Kilkenny and Carrick-on-Suir.
Quantity Surveying
The Quantity Surveying Section continued to provide or arrange for the provision of quantity surveying services to the OPW. It provided a full quantity surveying service on selected projects. It also provided a partial service on projects where no quantity surveying consultant was appointed and a general advisory service to all the business units on various contractual and cost matters. The section continued its programme of cost/price research and monitored movements in building costs. The section is staffed by six quantity surveyors, one of whom is a participant in the Graduate Quantity Surveying training scheme.
Fifteen new projects were added to the twenty-six already in hand on 1 January 2002, giving a total throughput of forty-one projects in the past year.
Of its total activity, the Section handles 53% project work and 47% advisory work.
The OPW Access Programme
During 2002 the Access Programme included the Four Courts; Dublin Castle; Department of Finance offices at Merrion Street, Setanta Centre, Frederick Buildings and Lower Mount Street; Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs offices at High Road, Letterkenny, Oliver Plunkett Road, Letterkenny, Ballinalee Road, Longford, New Quay, Clonmel, Dominick Street, Limerick, Oisin House and Townsend Street.
The Programme, in conjunction with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Institute for Design & Disability, undertook the creation of an exhibition, ‘Design for All’, assembled around the seven principles of Universal Design as compiled by the Centre for Universal Design, North Carolina State University. The exhibition, which opened in the Atrium of 51 St Stephen’s Green in October, will tour countrywide in 2003 to mark the European Year of People with Disabilities. Venues include Limerick, Tullamore, Longford, Ennis, Wexford, Portlaoise, Cork, Galway, Carrick-onShannon, Kilkenny, Monaghan before returning to the Atrium, 51 St Stephen’s Green.
| above right | Design for All, Exhibition
The total spend in 2002 was €1.27 m, which breaks down among Departments as follows:
The Programme also helped finance a Universal Accessibility Audit course under the auspices of the University of Ulster, which qualified thirteen OPW architectural staff as access auditors.
| above left | Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD, Minister of State Tom Parlon TD and Chairman Seán Benton inspecting works on the River Tolka at Drumcondra, Dublin.
Architectural Services
The Office of Public Works has one of the largest architectural practices in Ireland. It provides a full design and project management service for public sector building projects, a conservation management and advisory service, and independent advice to Government on architectural issues.
It is a multi-disciplinary practice that can offer a full in-house service to its customers. It includes architects and quantity surveyors, and has close links with the Structural Engineering and Mechanical and Electrical Sections of the Engineering Services Business Unit.
It has developed a reputation for quality and professionalism and continues to win many awards for the high standard of its work. The practice has developed a comprehensive management system that is ISO 9002 accredited and produces annual accounts which consistently show Architectural Services to be operating at a notional surplus.
Services offered to our customers include:
■ Provision of full design and construction management service
■ Project feasibility studies and reports
■ Development of initial brief
■ Advice on initial building and lifetime costs
■ Advice on planning and building regulations issues
■ Advice on health and safety
■ Advice on conservation methods and procedures
The practice has a developed extensive expertise in a number of areas:
■ Modern office accommodation
■ Conservation and restoration of heritage properties
■ Prison buildings
■ Garda buildings
■ Public offices for Government Departments
■ Public access at heritage sites
Project Portfolio
An indicator of the scale of work undertaken by Architectural Services is the value of the portfolio of projects being worked on in the practice. For 2002, the work programme contained 373 projects with a combined value of €1,677,480,000.
Throughout the year variations occurred in the planned advancement of certain projects due mainly to changing priorities of the client. Some 92 projects were added to the programme and these new projects more than compensated for the delayed elements in terms of productivity. By year-end, the full projected output for the year had been achieved with 453 projects on hand with a total value of €2,029,163,000.
| above left | Kilrush Garda Headquarters
| above right | Government Offices, Dundalk
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Monitoring and developing professional competency levels is essential in ensuring that project quality and service delivery is maintained as well as being a requirement of ISO 9002. To this end, a CPD programme for OPW professional and technical staff was put in place in January 2002. The training events organised included:
■ OPW Abroad Lecture
■ Fingal County Council Offices – Site Visit and Lecture
■ GDLA Contracts Lecture
■ Safepass Course
■ Streetscapes and Landscapes Lecture
■ Changes to Planning Regulations Lecture
■ Public Private Partnerships Seminar
Graduate Training Programme
The Graduate Training Programme entered its fourth year in 2002. For the first time there is a full complement of twenty graduate architects, as well as three graduate quantity surveyors, on placement in the Office. This training scheme is designed to provide practical experience for architects preparing for the RIAI/NUI examination in professional practice or the RICS assessment of professional competence.
Twelve graduate architects have now completed their placement in the OPW. These graduates have made a very positive contribution to the work of the practice and have been directly involved in the design and supervision of many of the important projects completed by Architectural Services.
Conservation
The Conservation Unit, in addition to executing major building conservation projects, continued with a number of conservation research initiatives, including:
■ Developing a building stone database in conjunction with the State Laboratory
■ Conservation research
■ Continuing investigation into the provenance of stone; mortars and renders; paints, under joint agreement with the State Laboratory
■ Participating with British Research Establishment (BRE) in research into older reinforced concrete structures
■ Developing a research programme and establishing collaborators to share in undertaking of specific practice-related subjects: fire safety (historic buildings) and accessibility; timber as structure; stone cantilevers; sculpted and carved elements; historic gardens/landscapes.
Sustainable Development Policy
■ Green Design Auditing (self-auditing system) was introduced into the practice and is now part of normal procedures for all projects. This means that all building designs produced by the Office of Public Works are fully audited for compliance with best practice in sustainable design.
■ A comprehensive series of lectures by the Energy Research Group was held as part of the CPD programme.
■ The Ad-Hoc Working Group maintained continuous monitoring of progress within Architectural Services.
■ Pilot projects as exemplars are in progress in a number of sections.
■ Hosted visit by GSA (Washington, USA) Sustainable Development team on exchange of knowhow programme
Universal Access
The introduction of Universal Access Audits (a self-auditing system) as part of the Practice Procedures of Architectural Services was completed in 2002. All building designs produced by the Office of Public Works are now fully audited for compliance with best practice in universal access design.
The first OPW access auditors attended the UAA Course at the Centre for Universal Accessibility in the Built Environment at the University of Ulster more than four years ago. Since then, the number of requests for access audits has grown steadily, and to facilitate this, the training of a further thirteen auditors was completed through the same Centre in 2002.
| above | European Commission Food and Veterinary Office, Co Meath
Engineering Services
Engineering Services provides a wide range of professional services over a broad spectrum of engineering disciplines. The various divisions, including Civil, Structural, Hydrometric and Mechanical and Electrical provide, engineering advice and support to deliver on Government policies through OPW work programmes.
Structure Changes
A review was carried out of the Business Unit’s management structure in the light of the continuing growth in the volume and complexity of its operations. A revised structure was agreed and during the year two additional Assistant Chief Engineer posts (in Structural Engineering Services and Flood Relief Services) and four additional Engineer Grade 1 posts, four Engineer Grade 2 posts and one additional Engineer Grade 3 were created.
The Valuation unit attached to Engineering Services was amalgamated with the Valuation Section in Property Management Services.
ISO Accreditation
The programme of seeking accreditation for each of the Business Unit’s sections continued with the awarding of ISO accreditation to the Structural Engineering Services in January 2002 and to Arterial Drainage Maintenance Section in October 2002. Significant progress was also made by the Design Section and the Mechanical and Electrical Section, which both expect to achieve accreditation in the first half of 2003.
Customer Service
An internet-based database was launched which allows researchers to obtain electronically information gathered by the OPW Hydrometric Service in relation to river flows and water levels at a range of sites across the country. It can be accessed from the OPW website at www.opw.ie/hydro/home.asp
Work commenced on digitizing drainage scheme maps, which will facilitate greater transfer of data both within the Office and to local authorities and other interested parties.
A customer correspondence tracking database was introduced in the Arterial Drainage Maintenance offices to aid service enhancement.
Drainage Maintenance
Progress continued towards achieving the enhancement of drainage operations recommended in a review of drainage maintenance activities by consultants in 1999. The main outputs in this area are summarized in the table below.
The replacement programme for plant and vehicles comprising the drainage fleet saw the purchase of excavators, personnel transport and other items valued at €1.5 m.
An Environment Section was set up to arrange specialized staff training and develop protocols in consultation with other state agencies to minimize the impact of drainage maintenance operations on flora and fauna in areas of operation.
Substantial progress was made on the implementation of a computerized system that will facilitate more accurate production control and management and customer advice.
In addition to servicing requirements of the OPW, principally in relation to Arterial Drainage Maintenance, the Workshop continued its involvement in prestige projects such as fabricating railings for Dublin Zoo.
An in-depth review of CEW’s future role and structure commenced during the year.
Hydrology and Hydrometric Section
A total of 320 requests for data were received, 96% of which were replied to within seven days of receipt. Data is now also being provided via the internet site www.opw.ie/hydro/home.asp Three additional data gathering stations were installed and equipment at a number of existing stations was upgraded.
Structural Section
The Section continued to contribute to the OPW building programme and provide advice. Output in the year is summarized in the table below.
Project/ActivityNo. on handNew ProjectsTotal Number Completed 1/1/2002In 2002in 2002 Building26154112 Civil Structural1011 Reports396610561
Projects completed included Garda Stations at Kilrush and Kilmacthomas and Cobh, Oysterhaven Coastguard Station and the refurbishment of the East Wing of the Four Courts.
| above | Banagher Bridge over the River Shannon – site of existing Hydrometric Station and Ultrasonic Gauge
Mechanical and Electrical Section
This Section’s work in 2002 is summarized in the table below.
As part of a reorganisation of the Mechanical and Electrical Section, the management of the maintenance portfolio of work was reviewed and the decision was taken to outsource this. This will allow the Section to concentrate on larger projects and expand the expert mechanical and electrical service provided to the other Business Units within the organisation.
Following a competition advertised in the EU Journal, two contracts were placed. These contracts involve the provision by selected companies of a help desk, managing the maintenance contracts and minor work contracts and processing the related payments to contractors. The scope includes services traditionally provided by the OPW and also additional functions to enhance the level of service to customers.
Government Supplies Agency
Procurement
The Government Supplies Agency continued to provide a centralised procurement service for Government Departments and Offices, State agencies and other public sector bodies. A total of 106 organisations used the service during the year, and the total turnover on contracts placed by the Agency was €50,748,000. The following table gives a breakdown of the turnover by product/ service type.
The Agency continually reviews the range of products and services available under its contracts, and the form in which they are delivered, in order to best meet the requirements of customers. Major developments in 2002 included the introduction of new drawdown contracts for
■ vehicles
■ single and full-colour leaflets
■ one-piece mailer cheques and cut sheet cheques
■ printed plastic envelopes for use in examinations.
The process of contract performance monitoring and management was developed and standardised to produce regular reports. This process is intended to assure a high quality service to customers on all contracts, and to provide supplier ratings to inform the award of future contracts.
Publications
The Agency’s Government Publications Service continued to provide a retail and mail-order service for the sale and distribution of Government publications. Highlights in 2002 included the 15-volume Report of the Inspectors of Ansbacher (Cayman) Limited, and the Second Interim Report of the Tribunal on Planning and Payments (the Flood Report). Both of these reports were made available on CD-ROM as well as in printed format. Over 400 paper copies and almost 600 CD copies of the Ansbacher Report were sold, while the Flood Report sold over 22,000 paper copies and almost 2,000 CD copies.
Election Services
The Government Supplies Agency manages the production of ballot papers for referenda and national elections, and the supply of all stationery requirements to Presiding and Returning Officers. A General Election was held in May 2002, and referenda were held in March and October. In addition to the introduction of colour photographs of candidates and party emblems on ballot papers, provision had also to be made for producing electronic ballot papers used on electronic
| above | www.irisoifigiuil.ie - homepage
voting machines which were introduced in three constituencies for the General Election. The number of constituencies using electronic voting was increased to seven for the Referendum in October. These constituencies also required standard ballot papers to cater for postal and special voters. The overall cost of election stationery and ballot papers was in the region of €950,000 for the year.
Iris Oifigiúil
The Government Supplies Agency publishes Iris Oifigiúil, the Government Gazette, twice each week. Work on the development of an Internet version of Iris Oifigiúil proceeded during 2002 and culminated in a live pilot scheme which was introduced from 1 January 2003. This can be accessed at www.irisoifigiuil.ie
Corporate Services
Personnel, Development and Organisation Services
Personnel Services continued during 2002 to deliver a support service to management and to the 1,200 employees of the Office of Public Works.
Prior to the formal introduction of Work Sharing in 2002, Personnel Services prepared procedures relating to the operation of the various options available to staff wishing to avail of this and other family friendly policies.
In the area of recruitment and promotion, a total of ten competitions were organised within the OPW and, as a result of these and recruitment through the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission, forty-three staff were appointed throughout the Office.
Personnel Services is also actively engaged in negotiations, discussions and dispute resolution with the wide range of unions representing staff interests in the OPW.
Training Unit
The major training initiative undertaken during the year was the delivery of five days training on the Performance Management and Development System. Other courses attended by staff included training in Communication/Presentation Skills, Project Management and Management Skills.
The Refund of Fees Scheme continued to be a major incentive to staff in pursuing courses of higher education.
Organisation Unit
In 2002 there was continued growth of IT within the OPW and an increase in the number of new systems developed, the most significant being the completion of the new Property Management System.
Work on a number of Information Society Initiatives was also completed in 2002. A website providing internet access to hydrometric information was launched and work on the Iris Oifigiúil web site was completed.
The scope and scale of the services offered via the Office’s intranet was increased. A number of new technologies were introduced, such as access to e-mail via mobile phones, wireless networks and a number of systems to facilitate collaborative working.
During the year, the number of IT services outsourced to third party suppliers increased. This programme of outsourcing will be continued and be augmented by the greater use of external consultants and direct recruitment of IT personnel. These measures will be essential to deliver appropriate IT services to the Business Units.
Legal Services Section
In 2002, Legal Services ensured the smooth transition of compensation claims to the State Claims Agency (SCA). As an aid to this transition, and to enable Line Managers and Claims Managers to understand better the role of the SCA in defence of claims against the OPW, Legal Services organised a number of presentations by senior SCA personnel in both Head Office and Regional Offices.
Legal Services began the process of agreeing a protocol between the SCA and the OPW which will ensure good co-operation between both organisations and will rationalise the administrative process involved. Other areas covered include the review of accident report forms and the design and distribution of a ‘Step by Step Guide in the Event of an Accident’.
The provision of legal advice to the Office continued to be managed by a firm of solicitors on a contract basis. Areas covered included mainly commercial and property transactions, commercial and construction contracts, along with queries on procurement and employment issues.
Legal Services continued to administer the two companies acquired by the OPW, Colmstock Properties Limited and Public Property Development Limited.
Freedom of Information (FOI) Unit
The efficient and effective handling of FOI requests continued to be a priority during 2002. The total number of requests dealt with during the year amounted to 83 and where appropriate, those making the requests were given every assistance with access to records without having to make a formal FOI application.
In July 2002, the Chairman appointed an additional thirteen Decision Makers and two Internal Reviewers, most of whom attended the basic training course organised by the Centre for Management and Organisation Development (CMOD). In addition, experienced Decision Makers were encouraged to take part in the Advanced FOI training courses.
In April 1998, the OPW published its first edition of the FOI Act Sections 15 and 16 Manual – Guide to the Functions, Records, Rules and Practices of the Office. Early in 2002, work commenced on updating this guide and the revised edition was published in June 2002. This guide will be made available on the new OPW website which is due to go online in early 2003.
As part of its commitment to best practice and compliance with the provisions of the FOI Act, the FOI Unit is represented at the meetings of the Civil Service Users Network (CSUN) and the Interdepartmental Working Group (IDWG). These networks provide a forum for discussion of cases with colleagues from other Civil Service departments and offices and contribute to the overall development of the FOI ethos.
The following table sets out a summary of the FOI activity during the year. Members of the public, business groups and journalists accounted for all the FOI requests received, with the numbers in each category being fairly evenly balanced. No requests were received in the categories of Members of the Oireachtas and staff.
FOI Statistics for year 2002 – notes: Live cases at beginning of year 2002 = 2 Requests received during 2002 = 90 Live cases at end of 2002 = 9 No of requests dealt with during 2002 = 83
“OPW
has developed a reputation for quality and professionalism and continues to win many awards for the high standard of its work.”
OPW Awards
Project/DivisionAwardClient(s)
Grange EU Food and RIAI Regional AwardOffice of Public Works on behalf
Veterinary Officeof the European Commission
Grange EU Food and An Taisce Sustainability AwardOffice of Public Works on behalf
Veterinary Officeof the European Commission
National Museum of AAI Annual Awards forOffice of Public Works on behalf
Country Life, Co MayoExcellence in Architectural of the Department of Arts, Design – Special Mention Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands
National Gallery of Ireland RIAI Regional Award – Office of Public Works on behalf
Millennium WingBest Public Building in the of the National Gallery of Ireland RIAI Regional Awards
National Gallery of IrelandRIBA Regional Awards 2002 – Office of Public Works on behalf
Millennium WingEuropean Union Awardof the National Gallery of Ireland
National Gallery of IrelandStirling Prize Award – Office of Public Works on behalf
Millennium WingShortlistedof the National Gallery of Ireland
Legal Aid Board Headquarters RIAI Regional AwardOffice of Public Works on behalf
Caherciveenof the Legal Aid Board
National Museum of Ireland RIAI Medal for ConservationOffice of Public Works on behalf Collins Barracks1993/94/95of the Department of Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands
Ibis Sanctuary, Dublin ZooIrish Concrete Society – Office of Public Works Award in Elemental Category
Farmleigh Ireland’s Best Service Office of Public Works Excellence Award (CERT)
Engineering Services, Structural ISO 9001:2000 Accreditation_
Engineering Servicesawarded January 2002
Engineering Services, Arterial ISO 9001:2000 Accreditation_
Drainage Maintenance awarded October 2002 Services, Dublin
“ The gross allocation on Vote 10 was €395,206,000. Appropriations-in-aid (receipts) totalled €16,768,799. The overall net saving on the vote was €10.904m from which €8.5m was transferred to Vote 44 for Humanitarian Assistance.”
Expenditure
The table below shows, on a programme basis, all expenditure managed by OPW in 2002 (2001 figures are shown for comparison). This involves funds granted directly to OPW via Vote 10 and Vote 44; funds administered on behalf of the Department of Finance; and expenditure on works and services managed by OPW and paid for by other Government Departments or Agencies.
Capital and Non CapitalProvisional Outturn €’000 20012002
1Property Management Services
1.1Purchase of sites and buildings44,32510,189
1.2Rent, rates etc.70,81498,459
Programme Total115,139108,648
2Property Maintenance
2.1 Maintenance, material and supplies 53,36746,140
3Funds managed by the OPW on behalf of the Department of Finance
1.These involve minor maintenance works on State occupied accommodation.
2. This was for work in Killybegs, Co Donegal.
3.Two Departments share most of the expenditure on clothing, the Departments of Defence and of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
4.These funds are managed on behalf of the Department of Finance. They involve the recoupment of loan payments, from local authorities and individuals in Gaeltacht areas, twice yearly, and early redemption loans. Gaeltacht Loans are now managed by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands.
Note: It is the policy of the OPW to process invoices without delay. Since 2/1/98 this Office is operating in accordance with the Prompt Payment of Accounts Act, 1997.
Funding of Programmes
7,7318,542
Notes to the Income and Expenditure Account
1.Notional fee income Notional fee income has been calculated using commercial fee scales discounted by 7.5% to reflect current market conditions. No adjustment has been made to either reflect any additional discounts which may be allowed to customers to whom long term services over a number of projects are provided, nor to reflect any premium which may arise on the provision of specialist services.
2. Employment Costs Actual pension and social welfare costs incurred have been increased where appropriate to reflect rates payable by private sector organisations. No adjustment has been made to base salary levels to reflect current market pay scales or bonus and other performance related remuneration.
3.Core Support Services Support costs have been allocated on the basis of staff numbers as a percentage of total established staff. Pension and social welfare costs incurred have been increased in line with note 2 above.
4.Rent €’000
Actual rent is allocated based on area occupied as a percentage of total space being rented. Notional rent is calculated at an average of €25 per square foot as an approximation of current market rates on similar properties. The notional charge is also allocated, based on area occupied.
5.Insurance Insurance is a notional charge to reflect professional indemnity insurance costs that would be incurred by a private sector practice and is calculated based on a percentage (3%) of notional fee income.
6.Notional Surplus The notional surplus does not reflect a number of additional costs that may be incurred by an equivalent private sector practice but which cannot be estimated with a sufficient degree of accuracy to permit their inclusion in this income and expenditure account. These costs include, but are not limited to, legal fees, marketing costs, entertainment and working capital management.
Note: All income and expenditure figures are shown net of VAT.
Notes to the Financial Statements 31 March 2002
1.Income
The Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) refund is for the years 1991/92 to 2000/01 due to the charitable status of Barretstown Castle Trust.
2. Expenses
Under the current lease terms with the Gang Camp, all outgoings, including maintenance and repairs of the castle, are the responsibility of the Gang Camp.
The legal fees relate to the services provided by Arthur Cox during the year. Tax fees were unusually high because of negotiations with Revenue regarding refund of Deposit Interest Retention Tax. The Camper Scholarship Scheme expense in 2001 of €3,809 relates to an undertaking by the Trust to sponsor a child at the camp for five years from 1999, at a total cost of €19,046.
3.Debtors20022001
Amounts falling due within one year ESB refund due1,213764
The ESB refund relates to payments made in respect of the electricity in the South Gate Lodge after the relocation of the O’Donoghue family in October 1998.
4.Office of Public Works – Current Account
The amount of €346 (2001: €7 14 due from the OPW) owing to the Office of Public Works reflects the current or “suspense” account maintained by the Office of Public Works.
5.ACC Deposit Account
The balance of the ACC bank deposit account agrees with the bank statement as at 31 March 2002
staff and senior personnel 2002
“ The OPW’s overall takeup represented just under a quarter of the overall Dublin market activity in 2001and over two-thirds of the entire public sector involvement in that market last year.”
Staff and Senior Personnel
OPW staff as at 31 December2002
Senior Personnel
Seán Benton
Chairman of the Office of Public Works
Property Services
Commissioner David Byers
Project Management Services
Commissioner Clare McGrath
(Appointed January 2003)
Property Management Services
Tom Costello
Principal Officer
Paul Molloy
Principal Officer
Property Maintenance Services
Des Thorpe Head of Maintenance
Health and Safety Unit
Kevin Fleming
Assistant Principal Officer
Facilities Management
Liam Basquille
Principal Officer
Mary Heffernan General Manager, Farmleigh
Tommy O’Shaughnessy
General Manager, Dublin Castle
Staff and Senior Personnel
Project Management Services
Jim Blighe
Principal Officer
Clare McGrath
Principal Officer (Appointed Commissioner January 2003)
Una Redmond Principal Officer
Special Projects Unit
Kevin Connolly Director
Architectural Services
Michael O’Doherty Director of Architectural Services
Liam Egan
Assistant Principal Architect
Michael Haugh
Assistant Principal Architect
Ciaran O’Connor
Assistant Principal Architect
Klaus Unger
Assistant Principal Architect
Finbar Wall
Assistant Principal Architect
Engineering Services
Tony Smyth
Director of Engineering Services
Jim O’Sullivan
Chief Mechanical & Electrical Engineer
Tom Sherlock
Principal Officer
John Curtin
Assistant Chief Engineer
Tom Bolger
Assistant Chief Engineer
John Gallagher
Assistant Chief Engineer
Corporate Services
Vincent Campbell Director of Corporate Services
June Thompson Principal Officer
Lynda Hendley Public Relations Officer
Finola Parnell Freedom of Information Officer
Financial Services and Government
Supplies Agency
Joseph Farrell Principal Officer
Head Office
Office of the Minister of State
Office of the Chairman
Corporate Services
Property Management Services
Project Management Services
Property Maintenance Services
Architectural Services
Engineering Services
51 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 647 6000
LoCall: 1890 213 414
Main Fax No: (01) 661 0747
Website: www.opw.ie
E-mail: info@opw.ie
Quantity Surveying Section, Professional Accountants
