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Autumn 2026 | Construction Management Ireland
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elcome once again to Construction Management Ireland. How the year is flying! We are three-quarters of the way through another year of dynamic progress and inspirational achievement by our industry. This is again showcased in our Autumn issue. We have all of our regulars such as News, Tech Talk, Green Building, a look at The Lie of The Land, Training & Careers, Lean Construction, Products & Services, industry Awards and so much more. Once again, we put our professionals centre-stage whatever aspect of the industry they inhabit – from students to industry leaders. In this issue we tackle subjects ranging from AI through to Sustainability, we get the latest from a range of third level colleges and see what’s new in the area of the built environment. We hear about new initiatives and collaborations and we get ‘the Lie of The Land’ across various different areas – including looking at a new national report which has highlighted a significant shortage of qualified surveyors in Ireland. We’re Out & About at World Green Building Week events as well as WorldSkills Ireland 2026 and more. We have Awards news and feature ‘Spotlight’ articles on a number of high profile ‘household’ names in our industry. There’s also a report on an important new industry-led initiative, facilitated by Business in the Community Ireland, which aims to accelerate progress on gender equality across the industry. Along the way we check in with news from RIAI, Atlantic Technological University, TUD, TUS, Engineers Ireland, SCSI, CIOB, IGBC and CIF…to name just a few!
PUTTING THE PROFESSIONAL CENTRE STAGE Ireland’s built environment joins forces to accelerate gender equality – see page 36
‘We tackle the issues from AI through to Sustainability.’
Talk to you soon, Martin & Dermot
* The articles herein represent a snapshot in time. Always check with those concerned for the latest.
Cmi
Construction Management Ireland Published by Ocean Publishing, 14 Upper Fitzwilliam St, Dublin 2
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Tel: 01 678 5165
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Contributing Editor Martin Foran martin@constructionmanagementireland.ie
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Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this journal is correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors, omissions or discrepancies. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.
i Cm CONTENTS
10 On The Record 3 News Stories from the industry and the wider economy
10 On The Record With Dr. Conan O’Ceallaigh. ‘Every timber building is effectively locking carbon away for decades.’
13 Tech Talk Fexillon and Digital Collaboration Network
17 Gas Networks Ireland ‘Dial Before You Dig’
19 The Lie of The Land Ireland facing shortfall of 2,200 surveyors over next four years
23 Project News London Irish Centre appoints Sisk to build Camden Home
25 RIAI Awards Projects recognised for transforming everyday life in Ireland
13 Tech Talk
29 Out & About WorldSkills 26, World Green Building Week and more!
33 Personal & Finance ‘How’s The Head?’ Chadwicks’ mental health campaign with Richie Sadlier
36 Training & Careers TUD news, Gender equality, Engineers Ireland’s educational outreach programme
42 Green Building Checking in with the IGBC and news from ATU
45 ‘Spotlight on’ Including Buttimer, O’Reilly Oakstown, Dornan…
53 Products & Services What’s caught our eye?
55 The Final Say Wrapping it all up on a positive note!
36 Training & Careers
2 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
NEWS TU Dublin research highlights urgent need to address surveying skills shortage in Ireland A new national report led by TU Dublin researcher Dr Róisín Murphy has highlighted a significant shortage of qualified surveyors in Ireland, warning that the country could face a deficit of more than 2,200 surveyors over the next four years.
Substantial The report, Employment Outlook for the Surveying Profession 2026–2029, was commissioned by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and projects substantial workforce shortages across the property, construction and land sectors. Under a higher economic growth scenario, the shortfall could exceed 3,000 surveyors by 2029. This is the fourth report in the SCSI employment outlook series undertaken by Dr Róisín Murphy, Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Apprenticeship at TU Dublin.
Evidence The research provides ‘critical evidence to support workforce planning and skills development across one of Ireland's most important economic sectors’.
Dr Róisín Murphy and Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland President, Tomás Kelly. The findings reveal that despite a significant increase in student enrolments on surveying programmes, demand for qualified professionals continues to outpace supply. The report identifies specific shortages at the graduate and mid-career levels, creating challenges for leadership development, mentoring, and succession planning within the profession. See more in our feature’s section, this issue
FLI Precast Solutions awarded Engineers Ireland’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Accredited Employer Standard FLI Precast Solutions, part of the FLI Group, is a leading manufacturer of bespoke precast concrete infrastructure solutions, delivering complex offsite construction projects across Ireland, the UK and Europe.
Specialises With over 35 years of manufacturing expertise, FLI Precast specialises in the design, engineering and production of high-quality precast solutions for the data centre, energy, water, residential, aviation and pharmaceutical sectors. FLI Precast employs a multidisciplinary team of engineers, designers and project delivery professionals who work collaboratively to deliver complex infrastructure projects across Europe. Continuous learning, technical excellence and innovation form a key part of the company's long-term growth strategy.
Help The CPD Accredited Employer Standard is designed to help organisations enhance the skills of their engineering professionals, developing employees who are agile and adaptable, creating a workforce that is encouraged to create and innovate, and develop new solutions. Organisations that have achieved the Standard may find they are better placed to deal with change and disruption
and attract and retain talent. The organisation has embraced Engineers Ireland's approach and ethos to CPD through structured professional development programmes, technical knowledge sharing, and the recent introduction of two internship positions for third-year engineering students from South East Technological University (SETU).
Milestone Speaking, following the award of the Standard, Tom Dunne, Managing Director, FLI Precast Solutions commented: ‘Achieving CPD Accredited Employer status through Engineers Ireland is an important milestone for FLI Precast Solutions and reflects our continued commitment to engineering excellence, professional development and investing in our people. ‘As our business continues to grow across critical infrastructure sectors, including data, energy and water, we recognise that developing and supporting engineering talent is fundamental to delivering innovative, high-quality solutions for our clients. ‘This accreditation reinforces the culture of continuous improvement and technical learning that exists throughout our organisation.’
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 3
NEWS
Commercial construction tender prices increased by 3% in first six months - Middle East conflict the main driver A new report by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) indicates that commercial construction tender costs are now rising at their highest rate in three and a half years.
Increased The latest Tender Price Index (TPI) published by the SCSI shows the rate of commercial construction inflation increased nationally by 3% in the first half of 2026, a trebling of the 1% rate of increase recorded in the previous six months. According to the SCSI’s Tender Price Index, (TPI) which is the only independent assessment of commercial construction tender prices in Ireland, the annual median rate of inflation for the past 12 months was 4%. The President of the SCSI, Tomás Kelly said the key drivers of the latest tender price inflation figures are the conflict in the Middle East and increases in the price of specific building products.
Driver ‘The majority of Chartered Quantity Surveyors surveyed pointed to the Middle East conflict as a major driver of material price changes, with the impact expected to particularly influence the price of oil-based materials. ‘Others highlighted the fact that the Middle East conflict would have a direct impact on supply chains. ‘The latest CSO figures tracking material price changes show that copper, up 8.7%, pipes and fittings, up 7.9% and pvc pipes, up 5.4% are among the highest inflated materials over the past 12 months. ‘This coincides with the views of quantity surveyors who are also highlighting upwards pressure on material prices.’
At a glance Commercial construction tender prices increased by 3% in the first half of 2026 This represents the largest six-monthly increase in three and a half years. National rate of commercial tender price inflation is now running at 4% year-on-year.
4 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
Reflected ‘The relationship between the demand and supply of labour was also reflected strongly in our findings. ‘Chartered Quantity Surveyors pointed to the availability of skilled labour as being in short supply which would likely put upward pressure on tender prices. ‘Chartered Quantity Surveyors have Table 1 SCSI National Tender Price Index Values (1H98 – also noted the 1H2026) (Commercial Building Construction) implementation of the Sectoral Employment Order (SEO), which will increase the time lag in other factors. wages of construction workers in Ireland from this month.’ The future Nationally, Chartered Quantity Regional variations Surveyors take a clear view that The figures indicate significant material prices are rising. variation across the regions in the first Approximately 84% of Chartered half of the year with the highest rate Quantity Surveyors place the market in of 3.3% being recorded in Munster, an upswing or at the peak. following on from the 1.5% increase in Kelly commented: ‘Only 15% of the second half of 2025. Chartered Quantity Surveyors place This is the highest tender price the market in a downward phase. movement recorded in the country ‘Material price instability was one of and indicates a 12-month change of the strongest sentiments expressed by 4.8%. Chartered Quantity Surveyors when The median change in tender prices asked about the drivers of tender price in Connacht / Ulster follows a similar movement over the next six months. trend with upward movement of 3% contributing to the same annual rate Hope of increase over the past 12 months of ‘The hope would be that that price 4.8%. instability, caused by geopolitical The median change in tender prices uncertainty will soon end. in Dublin was 2.5%, while the median ‘This suggests that, for many change in the rest of Leinster was projects, the issue is not simply 2.3%, marking a return to tender price whether the price of materials is rising, inflation in both regions following the but the extent to which contractors 0% increase recorded in both locations can confidently price materials over the second half of 2025. the life of a tender and construction The SCSI says regional variation programme. can occur due to a combination of ‘For now, it’s clear that ongoing reasons, from differing activity levels uncertainty is a factor in the to availability of resources and/or a increasing trend in tender prices.’
NEWS
Kingspan and Innovate for Ireland agree multiyear PhD collaboration Kingspan are pleased to announce a multi-year €3m collaboration with Innovate for Ireland, a major publicprivate initiative to position Ireland as a world-class hub for doctoral research and innovation talent.
Support The Cavan-headquartered building materials group aims to support multiple PhD iScholars over the next decade, backing research that connects Ireland’s universities with real-world industry challenges in areas including climate action, sustainability, green materials and the future of the built environment. The investment forms part of the broader Innovate for Ireland initiative, a national doctoral scholarship programme established to attract exceptional research talent from around the world and develop the next generation of innovation leaders in Ireland. Through the initiative, researchers will undertake cutting-edge projects across Irish universities in areas including green materials and the future of the built environment, the circular economy, sustainable aviation fuel, clean energy, and advances in chemotherapy.
Award-winning The first iScholar being sponsored by Kingspan is Abhishek Kaitheri Edathil, an award-winning India-born materials scientist researcher, studying at TUS Athlone. Availing of research facilities at TUS Athlone and the IKON Innovation Centre in Cavan, Abhishek will research recycling solutions for Polyurethane and Polyisocyanurate insulation waste across the building lifecycle. Commenting, Sandra Del Bove, Group Head of Innovation
at Kingspan, said: ‘We are proud to partner with Innovate for Ireland and are delighted to support an initiative that is building Ireland's next generation of sustainability and innovation leaders while strengthening the country's position as a world-class innovation ecosystem. ‘For Kingspan, this is a long-term investment in people, ideas and solutions.
Critical ‘As we continue to develop advanced solutions to support the decarbonisation of the built environment, access to world-class research talent will be critical. ‘Through programmes like Innovate for Ireland, we can combine outstanding research talent, academic expertise and industry insight to strengthen our innovation pipeline and turn promising ideas into practical solutions. ‘By connecting research excellence with industry, we can help transform breakthrough ideas into practical applications with global impact.’
Exceptional Commenting, Dr. Simon Boucher, Chief Executive of Global Innovators Ireland, which delivers Innovate for Ireland, said: ‘The Innovate for Ireland programme is designed to attract exceptional PhD talent from around the world to Ireland, giving researchers the opportunity to tackle challenges that matter to industry, society and public policy. ‘Kingspan’s commitment represents an important partnership for the programme.’
Tony Reddy announced as new Property Industry Ireland Chair Property Industry Ireland (PII), the Ibec group that represents the property sector, has announced Tony Reddy, Chairman and Founder of Reddy Architecture + Urbanism, an international design practice, has been appointed as the new association chair.
Experience He brings over four decades of experience in the property industry and has been a Council member of PII for over 15 years. He is a former President of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), a former chair of the Academy of Urbanism and a member of the Irish Cities 2070 Group. David Howard, Director of Property Industry Ireland, said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Tony Reddy as our new Chair at a really important time of our sector. ‘Over the last number of years, we have seen strong intent from Government and policymakers when it comes to addressing the barriers to critical infrastructure and housing delivery.
Ensuring ‘The next phase is about accountability to ensuring all parts of the system are delivering on the progress promised.
6 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
‘Tony’s profound understanding of urban design, planning, and sector-wide policy makes him uniquely positioned to lead PII through this important next stage. ‘Having served on the PII Council for over 15 years, his strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to advocate for a sustainable, vibrant, and forward-looking property and construction sector in Ireland. ‘I look forward to working closely with him to address the key opportunities and challenges facing our industry.’
Honour Tony Reddy said: ‘It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of Property Industry Ireland at such a pivotal time for the sector.'
NEWS
TU Dublin School of Architecture, Building and Environment awarded €700k funding from Creative Climate Action Fund III The government announced €7.6m investment in Creative Climate Action Fund III, record funding to support 11 creative, cultural and artistic projects across the island.
Delighted The School of Architecture, Building and Environment (SABE) is delighted to have been awarded almost €700k in funding for the project Demolition Takedown: Assemblages. The project led by Emma Geoghegan and Sarah O’Dwyer from TU Dublin SABE, with support from Helena Fitzgerald (TU Dublin Head of Societal Engagement) and in partnership with Islander Architects and Fingal County Council, seeks to shift industry wide culture and behaviour around construction and demolition. Building on the success of Demolition Takedown, the project proposes a move from awareness building to action – making the case, creatively and collaboratively for reuse over demolition.
Focussing The project will be place-specific working with Fingal County Council Arts Office and Planning Departments focussing on Balbriggan as a dedicated decarbonisation zone. The project aims to act as a template for utilising creative practice to • improve carbon literacy among the public, construction industry professionals and local authorities • reducing construction and demolition waste at source and diverting from landfill • activating the Higher Education
sector shape emerging cultures within the construction industry Sarah O’Dwyer of SABE said: ‘We in SABE are excited by the opportunities that this funding facilitates to build further and wider on our existing creative climate action research and teaching.
Real world ‘Students will engage with real world projects to make the case – creatively and practically – for reusing and retaining our existing building stock over demolition. ‘They will engage in creative spatial practice, cross industry collaboration and live project learning to contribute to a Climate Impact Assessment tool with the potential to shape planning policy in Fingal and beyond.’ Islander Architects said: ‘This new funding allows Islander Architects to build on our Demolition Take Down project to move from raising awareness to taking climate action by championing reuse over demolition.
Improve ‘By partnering with SABE and Fingal County Council we are using our hometown of Balbriggan as a ‘supply site’ for a reciprocal exchange of materials and data, designed to improve carbon literacy among the public and professionals. ‘We aim to create an open-source model for systemic change providing a primer for Local Authorities and Universities nationwide. ‘We believe this project is an important step to shift construction policy toward a more resilient future.’
Enduring Helena Fitzgerald, Head of Societal Engagement says: ‘We are delighted with this award to SABE for Demolition Take Down: Assemblages which aims to create enduring change in perceptions and behaviours regarding construction waste. ‘TU Dublin has significant strengths in using arts practice and creativity to address climate change and I look forward to the engagement with the Balbriggan community, Fingal County Council and construction industry stakeholders.’ Commenting on the funding announcement Fingal County Council Chief Executive AnnMarie Farrelly said: ‘Fingal County Council is proud to partner on a project that aligns closely with our climate action, circular economy and sustainable development objectives.
Meaningful ‘By focusing on Balbriggan as a dedicated decarbonisation zone, the project will not only help improve carbon literacy among residents, industry professionals and local authorities, but will also demonstrate how creative collaboration can drive meaningful behavioural change. ‘This initiative represents a highly innovative and practical approach to one of the key challenges facing the construction sector today – reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste and encouraging the reuse of valuable materials and buildings wherever possible.’
Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day Each year, International Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSME) Day, 27 June, highlights the critical role smaller businesses play in driving employment, innovation and economic growth.
Significant As we read in this issue: ‘In Ireland’s construction sector, MSMEs make up a significant proportion of the industry, and supporting their resilience and growth is essential to the sector’s future. ‘The CIF provides practical supports, representation and expertise to help MSMEs navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.’
Backbone CIF CEO Andrew Brownlee said: ‘Construction SMEs are the backbone of the sector, delivering the homes and infrastructure that communities across Ireland need. ‘In fact, 91% of CIF’s members are small and medium enterprises.’ More on MSME Day in Out & About, this issue.
NEWS
‘Engineering and AI: The impact of Artificial Intelligence and the role of the engineer in a new digital age.’ Irish adults are strongly concerned about AI, with 73% saying they are worried about the technology’s potential to lead to job losses, and 81% agreeing that AI should be more tightly regulated by Governments. That’s according to research contained in a new report published by Engineers Ireland, ‘Engineering and AI: The impact of Artificial Intelligence and the role of the engineer in a new digital age.’
Impact on employment The report also notes that around 110,000 Irish jobs may be vulnerable to automation by AI in the short to medium term, if domestic and international estimates of its impact on the labour market prove accurate, with clerical roles and those in the information technology sector deemed to be at most risk. The report points out, however, that the current evidence that AI is driving industrial productivity gains is weak, citing NBER research that shows that nine-in-ten executives say the technology is delivering no impact on employment or productivity. Engineers Ireland notes that AI is already transforming engineering practice, enabling faster project delivery, more sustainable design, and new capabilities such as generative
design, predictive maintenance, and AI-assisted documentation. In a further warning of major implications for the engineering profession, Engineers Ireland cautions that increased reliance on AI could undermine the development of early-career engineers by reducing opportunities for hands-on learning. Without corrective measures, this could weaken the future talent pipeline at a time when Ireland needs to expand its engineering capacity to remain globally competitive and deliver much-needed infrastructure.
Risk and responsibility Engineering and AI states that AI must remain a tool to augment, rather than replace, professional engineering judgement, and that engineers carry an increasingly important responsibility to ensure that the use of the technology is appropriately supervised, placing a human in the lead at all points in the decisionmaking. Effective governance and regulation will also be essential, the report notes, and while frameworks such as the EU AI Act and Ireland’s National Digital and AI Strategy 2030 provide a basis for oversight, there is a need for continued regulatory development, investment in skills, and proactive
Summer Camps at ATU ATU brought entrepreneurship and creativity to young innovators through regional summer camps The ATU Entrepreneurship Summer Camps, with the support of HEA funding, provided immersive learning experiences designed to build creativity, confidence, and entrepreneurial thinking through real-world engagement.
Creativity This summer, students took part in hands-on camps that brought learning beyond the classroom and created the opportunity for creativity, engaging with real business and industry settings. Among the camps which were run this summer: Engineering Tomorrow Camp – Donegal. Students discovered core engineering principles through hands-on, applied learning.
Skills Building and testing their own robotic systems, students developed problem-solving, design thinking and teamwork skills, culminating in a Football Robotics competition where teams put their engineering solutions into action in a fun, fast-paced challenge environment. 8 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
planning to manage labour market impacts. Transitioning workers into new areas of demand, with appropriate supports and training, at pace, will likely be essential to mitigate the risks of worker displacement, with the report recommending that the Government carry out forecasting to plan for these potential impacts.
Director Speaking about the data contained in Engineering and AI, Engineers Ireland’s Director, General, Damien Owens, said, ‘The enormous potential of AI is clear to all, but it is evident that the Irish public is not yet convinced it can be trusted. That trust must be earned through strong regulation, transparency, and accountability at every stage of deployment. ‘AI presents transformative potential for engineering and the wider economy, but its benefits will only be realised through coordinated action by engineers, industry, and government. ‘Strong, visible, effective regulation, robust economic planning, and supports and training for those affected by AI’s impact can position Ireland as a leader in AI adaptation.’
NEWS
‘Rebound in sector as second half of year got underway’ – AIB Ireland Construction PMI® Both total activity and new business saw renewed rises following marked falls in June, with all three categories of construction in positive territory.
Raise Firms continued to raise staffing levels and business confidence continued to recover modestly. Meanwhile, inflation and supply chain pressures softened during the month. The headline seasonally adjusted AIB Ireland Construction Total Activity Index signalled a return to growth of Irish construction activity in July. At 53.0, the index was up sharply from June's reading of 45.4 and pointed to a solid monthly rise in total output. Activity had now risen in four of the past six months.
Activity For the first time in 15 months, all three monitored categories of construction saw activity increase in July. Commercial led the way, registering a solid rise in activity which was the fifth in the past six months. Meanwhile, modest expansions were recorded in housing and civil engineering activity, ending sequences of contraction of three and 14 months respectively. Where activity rose, panellists often linked this to improved customer demand, and this was also evident with regards to new orders which increased following a marked fall in June. The rate of expansion was only slight, however, amid reports of a scarcity of tender opportunities. As has been the case in each month since last November, construction firms increased their workforce numbers in July.
Solid The rate of job creation was solid, having quickened from June.
Alongside the rise in employment, constructors also expanded their use of sub-contractors, and at the jointfastest pace in almost three-and-a-half years. As such, the availability of subcontractors decreased markedly. Meanwhile, purchasing activity was broadly stable, following a solid fall in the previous month. While some firms increased input buying in response to higher new orders, others indicated that their holdings of materials were sufficient to support current requirements. July data signalled easing inflationary pressures and supplychain disruption. Input costs increased rapidly again, but at the slowest pace in five months. Meanwhile. sub-contractor rates rose to the least extent since February 2025.
Comment Commenting on the survey results, John Fahey, AIB Senior Economist, said: ‘The AIB Irish Construction PMI survey for July indicated that the sector started the third quarter with
some renewed momentum. ‘The headline index rose sharply and moved back into expansionary territory, printing at 53.0. ‘This compared to a very weak 45.4 in June. ‘The sectoral breakdown showed that the improvement in July was broad-based. ‘Indeed, it was the first time since April of last year that all three sub sectors registered growth. ‘The best performing of the three and main driver of the expansion was commercial. It returned to growth after contracting for the first time in five months in June.
Expanded ‘Meanwhile, activity levels in the residential sector expanded for the first time since March, albeit the rate of growth was modest. ‘There was good news as well emanating from the civil engineering sector, with it recording its first month of growth since April 2025. ‘There were also encouraging developments in some of the other key measures of the July survey.’
Irish Green Building Council new website The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) has launched a new website to serve as a resource centre for sustainable building information and best practices across Ireland's built environment sector.
With developers, architects, engineers, and contractors facing increasing expectations around sustainable design and construction, the IGBC website has been created to provide easier access to trusted industry knowledge.
Grow
Easier navigation
The updated platform arrives at a time when interest in low-carbon construction, sustainability compliance, and environmental performance continues to grow.
A key feature of the redesign is that content is organised by thematic areas rather than by individual content types. For more see Green Building section.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 9
ON THE RECORD
Concrete and steel built the modern world. But they also helped build its carbon problem. For Dr Conan O’Ceallaigh, Principal Investigator and Chartered Engineer at ATU, mass timber buildings and infrastructure could help reduce emissions and store carbon within the structures themselves. Every timber building is effectively locking carbon away for decades, he points out. ‘It’s not a one-off extraction, but part of a cycle that depends on forests being continually renewed.’
‘Every timber building is effectively locking carbon away for decades’ CMI: Hi Conan and welcome. Can we start with the scale of the challenge facing the sector as the country works toward halving GHG emissions by 2030 and reaching net-zero by 2050? CO’C: Across the EU, buildings account for around 40% of energy consumption and 36% of energyrelated greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). In Ireland, the built environment produces approximately 37% of national emissions, comprising 23% from building operations and 14% from embodied carbon emissions. This highlights the scale of the challenge facing the sector as the country works toward halving GHG emissions by 2030 and reaching netzero by 2050. CMI: You have pointed out that people often talk about energy or transport when we think about climate change - but the materials we build with are just as important. Can you speak to us about the significance of mass timber? CO’C: In recent years, there has been a significant effort to reduce the energy/ carbon emissions associated with our built environment, and much of this focus has been on operational emissions such as lighting, heating, cooling, etc., but perhaps more important are the embodied carbon emissions, which are emitted during the construction, maintenance and deconstruction phases. These are simply the emissions associated with the extraction, manufacture and transport of the materials we choose to use in our buildings. Unlike traditional materials, mass timber and engineered wood products have a very low embodied carbon and also act as a store of carbon which was absorbed by trees during their growth. This presents the industry with a unique opportunity to reduce its embodied carbon emissions.
1 0 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
Mass timber
Mass timber comprises a range of advanced engineered wood products, including crosslaminated timber (CLT), glued laminated timber (Glulam) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL).
Dr Conan O’Ceallaigh CMI: Can you tell us about your current focus and the recent study: ‘A review of best international life cycle assessment (LCA) practices in wood construction: Challenges for Ireland’, published in Cleaner Environmental Systems? CO’C: This research was carried out in collaboration with the University of Galway, alongside SAOLWood project coordinator, Dr Patrick McGetrick, and lead author, PhD researcher Song Ge. Across these studies, a consistent picture emerges that timber is not only structurally viable but increasingly competitive as a low-carbon construction material when assessed across its full life cycle. It reflects a shift toward embodied carbon (EC), the emissions associated with the materials and processes used before a building is occupied Dr Patrick McGetrick commented that collaborations of this kind are essential for advancing timber research in Ireland, particularly in the West: By bringing together academic expertise, industry insight, and international best practice, we can accelerate the adoption of timber and wood construction solutions that are both environmentally robust and locally relevant.
Layers These products are manufactured by bonding layers of timber together to create large structural elements in specialised production facilities. As a result, timber construction is no longer constrained by the size, shape or dimensions of a single tree, enabling the production of large and complex structural components for modern buildings. Engineered timber products also offer enhanced strength and reliability. Natural defects, such as knots that may weaken an individual timber board, are distributed and reinforced through the lamination process, improving overall structural performance. Strength and consistency Consequently, mass timber provides the strength and consistency required for modern construction while also delivering environmental benefits through the storage of carbon absorbed by trees during their growth.
ON THE RECORD
CLT - Cross Laminated Timber comprising timber boards adhesively bonded together, with each adjacent layer orientated 90° to one another, forming a robust structural panel product. CMI: Building on your previous findings, this research explores how mass timber can reduce emissions across a building’s entire life cycle while delivering the strength and performance required for modern construction. Could you expand on this? CO’C: The use of mass timber has been shown to have a positive effect on reducing upfront embodied carbon emissions, and much of my research has also focused on demonstrating its structural performance and reliability. There are numerous excellent examples of mass timber buildings throughout Europe and the world, where it has been shown to rival other traditional materials. For example, the Mjøstårnet building in Norway is 88.8m tall; taller than any structure currently constructed in the Republic of Ireland. My research has focused on the structural performance of mass timber elements (glued laminated timber and cross-laminated timber) manufactured from Irish-grown timber, and we have been able to demonstrate its suitability and reliability as a structural material that the industry can use with confidence.
increase the use of timber in other areas and offset more carbon-intensive materials. There is a growing drive for more low-carbon solutions. This is evident across Europe, and while this requires upskilling in the industry in Ireland, there are many mass timber champions currently constructing mass timber buildings or are at the planning stage. I hope that my research, combined with some of these demonstrator buildings, will provide the general public, policymakers and the industry confidence to adopt lower-carbon options where they make sense. CMI: The potential benefits extend beyond carbon reduction? CO’C: There are several benefits when adopting mass timber solutions. If we focus on CLT alone, all structural elements, be it walls, floors, roofs (inclusive of openings) or stairs,
CMI: You noted how a key aim of this research is to provide the evidence base needed for engineers, developers, and policymakers to make informed decisions? CO’C: This isn’t about replacing every material. My background is structural engineering, and there are many design situations where mass timber isn’t the optimal choice and CLT connections are commonly joined with typical shouldn’t be used. steel brackets which can be either nailed or screwed But I also believe there together. is significant scope to
are computer numerical control (CNC) routed from a master panel with high precision, marked and transported directly to the site. This level of precision is transferred to on-site activities, which have significant benefits including faster construction times, reduced waste, improved safety on site, and stronger links between forestry, manufacturing, and regional economies. CMI: Looking ahead, have you any predictions in this area? CO’C: My current focus is now on monitoring the behaviour of such structures in an Irish climate. My team are currently instrumenting some of the first examples of mass timber in Ireland to examine their performance during inservice working conditions. This data will be used to inform policymakers and the industry and will shape design approaches that allow buildings to be developed with confidence into the future. CMI: There is also increasing interest in how mass timber could support public infrastructure such as schools, transport facilities, and community buildings. Can you expand on this? CO’C: I believe that public buildings do represent a significant opportunity for increasing the use of mass timber because they are often repeatable building types where standardised design and prefabrication can provide real benefits. Schools, community and transport facilities are all areas where mass timber can perform very effectively, and across Europe, we are seeing increased use of mass timber in these sectors. Ireland is now beginning to follow this trend and with increased demonstrator structures and the evidence emerging from current research, I believe mass timber has a significant role to play in the future. This article is based on ATU Research Commentary Series Issue 5, Building the Future in Wood: Harnessing Mass Timber to Store Carbon and Deliver Net-Zero Infrastructure, funded by RISE@ATU, drawing on peer-reviewed research by Dr Conan O’Ceallaigh. This research is in collaboration with ATU’s TRIBE Lab (Transformative Research & Innovation in the Built Environment), which focuses on applied research and sustainable construction systems. It also sits within ATU’s newly established School of the Built Environment, centred on the sustainable future of construction and infrastructure.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 11
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1 2 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
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TECH TALK
Fexillon secures landmark 6-year contract to deliver full-lifecycle building information platform for Ireland’s Land Development Agency The integrated building platform will support up to 100 housing developments, over 1,500 users and the migration of hundreds of thousands of project and asset information records into a single environment. Fexillon was awarded a landmark six-year contract with the Land Development Agency (LDA) to deliver a unified building information platform across its growing national residential development portfolio.
Establish The appointment will establish Fexillon as the central building information management platform supporting the LDA’s development, delivery, handover and long-term operation of residential assets. The platform will serve more than 1,500 users and support a portfolio of approximately 100 major developments, creating a single environment for the management of project, asset, compliance and operational information throughout the entire building lifecycle. As part of the programme, Fexillon will migrate more than 75 projects and hundreds of thousands of information records from multiple legacy systems into a secure, connected digital ecosystem, providing the LDA with a scalable digital foundation to support its expanding affordable housing delivery programme.
Connected The platform combines a Common
(L-R) Kieran Beggan and George Harold, founders. Data Environment (CDE), Digital Safety File, Building Manual and Asset Information Management solution, enabling information generated during planning, design and construction to remain connected and accessible long after project completion. By creating a single trusted source across the lifecycle of every asset, the LDA will gain greater control, visibility and assurance over the information required to manage buildings safely, efficiently and compliantly for decades to come. For Owner Operators, information is now one of the most valuable strategic assets in the built environment, yet it is frequently fragmented across teams, consultants and disconnected
systems, creating operational, compliance and financial risk.
Necessity This appointment reflects a growing recognition that managing that information well is a strategic necessity. As portfolios scale, owners require trusted digital infrastructure that supports regulatory compliance,
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 13
TECH TALK
improves collaboration and provides a foundation for future technologies including digital twins, predictive maintenance, sustainability reporting and AI-driven asset management. George Harold, CEO of Fexillon, commented: ‘We are delighted to partner with the Land Development Agency on a programme of such national significance. ‘As organisations responsible for large asset portfolios continue to digitise their operations, the ability to trust, manage and leverage information across the full lifecycle of an asset becomes increasingly critical.
About Fexillon
Strategic
Trusted
‘This appointment demonstrates the strategic role that digital information now plays in reducing risk, supporting compliance, improving operational performance and protecting long-term asset value. ‘We look forward to supporting the LDA as it delivers high-quality housing and sustainable communities across Ireland.’ The award further strengthens Fexillon’s position as a leading provider of digital information management and asset intelligence solutions for
Trusted by blue-chip Owner Operators in mission-critical sectors, including Microsoft, Children’s Health Ireland, Savills and the University of Strathclyde, Fexillon is ISO 27001, RESET® and FSQS accredited and a repeated industry award winner.
1 4 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
Fexillon is a building information asset lifecycle management company for buildings and infrastructure, with over 25 years pioneering digital transformation in the built environment across Ireland, the UK, Europe and the United States.
Partner We partner with Owner Operators and their project teams to manage building information from concept and design, through construction and handover, into live operations. The Fexillon Platform delivers a single, verified source of truth, a golden thread of information and an approved Digital Building record at handover, supported by our expert Building Information Management service, while Fexillon Twin for Sustainability visualises ESG performance in operation on the path to Net Zero.
Your Build. One Place. www.fexillon.com owners and operators across the built environment.
Transform By connecting project delivery with long-term operations, Fexillon enables
organisations to transform building information into a strategic asset that drives efficiency, resilience and better outcomes throughout the asset lifecycle.
TECH TALK
Digital Collaboration Network: Providing a structured forum for collaboration, shared learning, and practical support The CIF’s Construction 4.0 Committee established a Digital Collaboration Network to support members in the implementation of digital processes within their businesses.
Structured The Network brought together members at varying stages of digital maturity, from those beginning their digital journey to those seeking to progress to the next stage of adoption, and provided a structured forum for collaboration, shared learning, and practical support. Denise Tuffy, Director of Specialist Contracting with the CIF, said: ‘It’s been set up to help the industry digitalise. ‘So, we’ll have larger companies helping the supply chain, smaller companies telling smaller companies how they went about digitalisation, and medium companies, for example, explaining how they went about certification.’
Driver A driver for the establishment of the Network was the introduction of the BIM mandate for Public Works, which is continuing to cascade down through the industry and will apply to projects over €5 million from January 2027. Members who wish to compete for public works contracts are encouraged to prepare, where applicable to their business, to ensure readiness for compliance with this requirement.
Implementing digitalisation: Practical guidance and supports The Network launched with two regional events: the first took place in Galway at the Radisson Red while the second took place in Cork at the Radisson Blu. Both events provided practical, actionable guidance and an open forum where members gained clarity on the challenges associated with adopting digital processes. The programme focused on: 1. Funding opportunities available to contractors undertaking digitalisation 2. Practical insights into implementing digital tools and workflows within construction
businesses Peer-to-peer learning, drawing on real experiences from companies that have successfully addressed digital adoption challenges Dan Gorman, Construction Engagement Consultant with GS1 Ireland, said: ‘The most important thing is, construction companies are only the end of the process. ‘We have to get the clients thinking about digitisation and provide the time to the design teams to design using, be it BIM to ISO 19650 in a way that actually, BIM is used by every player or every actor in the whole construction sphere.’ 3.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Digital Adoption Both events had a panel discussion on ‘The Do’s and Don’ts of Digital Adoption’. The panel brought together industry experts for a practical and open
discussion on digital adoption across construction companies of all sizes. The session explored common challenges, recurring pitfalls, and effective solutions, drawing on realworld experience and lessons learned. The discussion aimed to reassure participants that many of the challenges encountered are shared across the sector, and to provide practical guidance on how these can be addressed in a structured and achievable way.
Goal Sarah Murphy, Pre-contract and Design Manager with Carey Building Contractors, said: ‘I think the important goal is to make sure that everybody in the industry understands what it is that’s happening and importantly, learn the things we need to know and the things that we don’t need to know and try and make it as simple as possible for everybody.’
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 15
Don’t sett yourself up to fail Always check for gas pipelines before you break ground
Visit www.gasnetworks.ie/dig
GAS NETWORKS IRELAND
Dial before you dig: A simple step that saves lives, time and money Across Ireland, construction activity continues to grow, with crews delivering essential housing, infrastructure and utility projects at pace.
Importance But as more ground is broken, the importance of underground gas pipeline safety has never been greater. Every excavation, whether it is a major infrastructure project, roadworks, site development or a simple drainage installation, carries a potentially serious risk: damaging buried gas infrastructure. While these assets may be out of sight, they should never be out of mind. That is why Gas Networks Ireland continues to urge contractors, site managers, local authorities and anyone planning excavation works to make one simple check before work begins: Dial Before You Dig.
Up-to-date The service gives those undertaking excavation works access to up-to-date gas network maps, allowing them to identify the presence of gas pipelines and plan works safely before breaking ground.
Gas Networks Ireland provides access to these maps through its Dial Before You Dig service and online portal, helping contractors make informed decisions and reduce the risk of accidental strikes. The consequences of damaging a gas pipe can be severe. Natural gas is highly flammable, and an uncontrolled release can create the risk of fire, explosion or asphyxiation.
Wider Gas can travel through soil, ducts, drains and other underground services, potentially entering nearby buildings and creating a wider safety hazard. Importantly, many incidents are entirely preventable. Safe excavation begins long before machinery arrives on site. Obtaining utility maps, carrying out site surveys, identifying potential hazards and ensuring crews understand the location of underground services are all critical elements of a safe system of work.
Position Even on familiar sites, gas pipelines may be closer to the surface or in a different position than anticipated.
Gas mains and services may not always be where crews expect them to be. Changes to road levels, footpaths and landscaping over time can reduce cover depth, while service connections are not typically shown on network maps and must be assumed to be present. For this reason, obtaining maps is only the first step. Works should be carefully planned, gas assets positively identified and safe digging practices followed throughout the project lifecycle.
Straightforward The message is straightforward: before any excavation project begins, take the time to know what is below. A few minutes spent checking utility information can prevent project delays, costly repairs, service interruptions and, most importantly, serious injury. Gas Networks Ireland's Dial Before You Dig service is available by calling 1800 42 77 47, emailing dig@ gasnetworks.ie or through the online service at gasnetworks.ie/dig, where registered users can access up-todate gas network maps 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Autumn Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 17
MORE THAN 6,000 APARTMENTS SOLD BY HOOKE & MACDONALD IN RECENT YEARS FOR OVER €3 BILLION SPECIALISTS IN THE SALE OF APARTMENTS FOR OVER 5 DECADES
DONNYBROOK GA R D EN S
DA N E H I L L
Donnybrook, Dublin 4 by Cairn Homes
Phoenix Park Racecourse, Dublin 15 by Flynn & O’Flaherty
S TRAND VIEW
BRIC K F I E L D S Q UA RE
Howth Road Co. Dublin by MKN
Crumlin Dublin 12 by Brian M. Durkan & Co
ROS EL AWN
C LONBERN APA RTMENT S
Foxrock Dublin 18 by Richmond Homes
Castleknock Dublin 15 by Flynn & O Flaherty
A R D ILEA C R ES C E N T
BA R N EL MS
Churchtown Dublin 14 by Cosgraves
A SH B ROOK
BERA N GER HOUSE
DOMVILLE
Clonskeagh Dublin 14 by Axis Construction
Cherrywood Dublin 18 by William Neville & Sons
8TH LOC K
Dun Laoghaire Co. Dublin by Cosgraves
FERNHILL GATE
THE DAVITT
BL AC K WOO D S QUA R E
Leopardstown, Dublin 18 by Jackie Greene Construction
Crumlin Dublin 12 by Brian M. Durkan & Co
Santry Dublin 9 by Cosgraves
HAL LWELL GREEN
VERVILLE
MARIETTA WOODS
Clontarf Dublin 3 by MKN
Dalkey Co. Dublin by Twinlite
HALIDAY HOUSE
THE WINDMI LL
Dun Laoghaire Co. Dublin by Cosgraves
Clonsilla Dublin 15 by Kimpton Vale
BROOKWO O D COURT
EUS TAC E COURT
Killester Dublin 5 by MKN
Dun Laoghaire Co.Dublin by Cosgraves
Clonskeagh Dublin 14 by O’Malley Construction
C HURC H FIELDS
Mulhuddart Dublin 15 by Gem Construction
THE QUA RTER
Citywest Co.Dublin by Cairn Homes
C HARLOTTE
Royal Canal Park, Dublin 15 by Ballymore
Howth Road, Clontarf by Baystreet Ltd
Lucan Co. Dublin by Hugh McGreevy & Sons
MONTPELI ER
Stoneybatter Dublin 7 by Bartra
MAL A H IDE ROA D
Dublin 13 by GEM Construction
MARIANELL A
Rathgar Dublin 6 by Cairn Homes
ORBY
Phoenix Park Racecourse, Dublin 15 by Flynn & O’Flaherty
GRIFF ITH WOOD
Griffith Avenue Dublin 9 by Cairn Homes
CONTACT THE HOOKE & MACDONALD TEAM TO DISCUSS THE MARKET AND YOUR REQUIREMENTS. Hooke & MacDonald T. 01 631 8402 | sales@hmd.ie T. 01 631 8403 | investments@hmd.ie PSRA 001651
WINNER 2022, 2023 & 2024
2022, 2023, 2025 & 2026
LIE OF THE LAND: HOOKE & MACDONALD
Strong population growth Demographic data from the CSO points to continued strong population growth, increased household formation and persistent structural undersupply, particularly in the Greater Dublin Area / Mid East and other urban areas. First time buyers remain central, supported by Help to Buy and First Home Schemes, although the €500,000 upper threshold on the Help-to-Buy scheme is out of date and needs revision. Demand for energy efficient homes continues to grow, reflecting both running cost awareness and lender incentives. Attention has turned to downsizing and right sizing.
Recognition The Central Bank’s April 2026 decision to exempt certain principal residence bridging loans from loan to income limits reflects a recognition of a long standing market inefficiency: Asset rich, income poor households, often older owner occupiers, were effectively blocked from moving. This targeted adjustment is explicitly designed to improve market liquidity without weakening lending standards. The impact of the changes in the cost landscape as a result of the war in the Middle East is adding to construction costs and curtailing new supply, bringing added risk to projects and impacting viability.
Demand Demand for new homes in Ireland is at an all-time high, particularly from first time buyers, largely as a result of the bulging demographics and an Irish economy with many strong fundamentals, including Exchequer surpluses. Supply is increasing steadily but not yet at a pace that will match government targets or homebuyer needs. The building industry has been playing its part by acquiring multiple sites, where available, seeking planning permission in a difficult environment, developing larger sites at speed, producing superb quality, well designed, energy efficient new home developments and creating vibrant new communities around the country. All this, despite a considerable number of obstacles in the way of new homes delivery.
Obstacles to delivery The obstacles to delivery include the following: • Insufficient zoned land for housing at affordable prices and a lack of urgency by some councils in finalising development plans and zoning sufficient land to match the latest population increases. At central and local levels, Ireland has been underproviding in terms of zoned land. • Planning decision delays and uncertainty, planning appeals and judicial reviews. • Infrastructural deficits with lack of electricity, water and other services. • Design changes to make apartment delivery more viable being held up by court proceedings. • The regulatory costs that are mounting up, pushing up house prices and reducing delivery viability. These include the concrete levy, carbon tax, Part V increased to 20 per cent and the water levy. • Shortage of availability of equity capital to assist small and medium-size developers to acquire land and fund early project stages. • Cost and availability of debt finance for the acquisition of
•
zoned and un-zoned land. The prospect of rising inflation and interest rates.
Several positives at play On the positive side, there are several factors that are assisting homebuyers, particularly Government and State initiatives. • The Help to Buy Scheme, the First Home Scheme, the Affordable Purchase Scheme and the Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Scheme. • The formation of the ‘Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce’ by the Government and the commitment to abide by its recommendations is hugely significant and helpful. • The establishment of a Joint Utilities and Transport Clearing House to improve co-ordination between local authorities, utilities and transport bodies. • The impressive performance by the Land Development Agency (LDA) in delivering an ever increasing supply and a range of tenures is very positive in solving the shortage of new homes. The healthy collaboration between the LDA and the private sector is working well and to the benefit of homebuyers and renters. Donald MacDonald
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 19
LIE OF THE LAND
The New President of SCSI says addressing the shortage of surveyors, and other skills shortages generally in the industry, must be a priority to ensure delivery of key infrastructural projects
Ireland facing a shortfall of 2,200 surveyors over the next four years The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) has warned that the country is facing a major shortage of qualified surveyors across the property, construction and land sectors over the next four years.
Shortage The report entitled ‘Employment Outlook for the Surveying Profession 2026 – 2029’ projects a shortage of over 2,200 surveyors under a median growth scenario of 2.5% Gross National Income (GNI) per annum over the next four years. If growth reaches 3.5% GNI, the shortfall of surveyors would be over 3,000 surveyors. The new President of the SCSI, Tomás Kelly, said the figures showed the urgent need to continue to ramp
Dr. Róisín Murphy with Tomás Kelly. up the enrolment of surveyors in our third-level colleges and to expand additional pathways to the profession, including through apprenticeships. ‘The findings demonstrate persistent and, in some cases, widening shortages notwithstanding many positive awareness initiatives and an overall large increase in educational enrolments on surveying programmes since the first of these reports was published in 2014.
Grow ‘Although the number of students currently enrolled on surveying programmes has increased significantly – it now stands at 2,382 – these figures are showing an annual shortage of circa 23% as demand has continued to grow. ‘Under all scenarios of the research, supply is projected to fall short of demand, with shortages particularly acute at graduate and mid-career level. ‘Legacy gaps arising from the 20082013 economic downturn continue to affect the availability of experienced surveyors, placing pressure on mentoring capacity, which is essential
2 0 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
for leadership development and succession planning. ‘Addressing the shortfall of surveyors identified by the report – as well as additional skills shortages in other professions and trades – must be a priority for government and the industry to ensure the delivery of key infrastructural projects and the National Development Plan.’
Routes With regard to quantity surveying, Mr Kelly said alternative routes such as part-time and flexible study options such as micro-credentials are very welcome. The recent launch of quantity surveying apprenticeships is a very welcome initiative for which the SCSI acknowledges the support shown by Government agencies and looks forward to them being expanded. Additionally, there is a need for new geospatial, building and property surveying courses at third level. He said that, in addition to increasing the flow of graduates, the SCSI and the wider industry need to attract experienced professionals from
LIE OF THE LAND
SCSI Presidency A native of Wexford but living in Galway, Mr Kelly is a long-standing member of the SCSI and has held a number of senior roles in the organisation, including Chair of the Quantity Surveying Professional Group and of the Western Committee. Married with two grown-up daughters, he has worked for AECOM for almost 30 years.
based measurement, are no longer optional; they are integral to any future-ready practice. With the right training, these tools will enhance professional judgement, not displace it.’
Industry Addressing the wider skills gaps in the industry, Mr Kelly notes that it is one of the 30 actions in the 'Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce Report and Action Plan'. ‘The strong work of the Taskforce needs to be fully supported by all arms of National and Local Government and continue at pace. ‘Of particular importance is regular updates to the market on the project pipeline in terms of funding and timeline for coming to the market. ‘As noted in the Taskforce Report, uncertainty around funding and project pipelines undermines confidence and lack of clarity discourages investment in skills and capacity.’
Commissioned other sectors with strong transferable skills, such as technology, legal and finance, who are looking to pivot their career.
Opportunities ‘For example, there may well be
opportunities for people employed in the technology sector to transition to new careers in property, land or construction. ‘Digital competence, data-driven decision-making and emerging tools, such as AI, drones and sensor-
This is the fourth report commissioned by SCSI in the series by Dr Róisín Murphy, who is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Apprenticeship at TU Dublin. Dr Murphy said there was widespread agreement on what the key skills requirements are and the benefits to young surveyors of being office-based. ‘The foremost skill requirements across all surveying pathways are transversal skills – also known as soft skills; such as communication, collaboration, interpersonal relations, leadership and critical thinking. ‘Survey respondents identified the need to prioritise the development of transversal skills, particularly for students whose learning experience through Covid may have had limited or reduced “in-person” interaction.
Adapt ‘Such highly transferable skills will allow professionals to adapt to changing societal and sectoral demands. ‘They also believe that increased time spent in an office-based setting for peer-to-peer interaction and knowledge absorption is considered crucial for young surveyors and suggest that further emphasis be put on transversal skill development during third-level education.’
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 21
LIE OF THE LAND
CIF Construction Outlook Quarter 2: Stable outlook for construction But cost pressures and structural constraints weighed on growth The CIF Q2 2026 ‘Construction Outlook Survey’, highlighted steady levels of activity across the sector. Based on responses from 138 construction companies, the survey indicated that the sector remains broadly stable, with signs of modest growth and improving sentiment around turnover and forward orders. ‘However, performance remains uneven, with stronger activity in Civil Engineering and Specialist Contracting, while other areas are more subdued. ‘Cost pressures continue to be a defining challenge, with persistent increases in labour and material costs driving upward pressure on project pricing.
Mixed ‘Public works participation also remains mixed, with a significant share of firms not engaged, reflecting ongoing concerns around margins and procurement processes. ‘Export activity remains positive, with most exporting firms reporting increased turnover in Q1. ‘Looking ahead, firms are cautiously optimistic, expecting stable to improving activity levels, although cost inflation and structural market constraints are likely to weigh on the pace and scale of growth.’
Cautiously optimistic Commenting on the findings, CIF CEO Andrew Brownlee said: ‘Construction firms remain active and cautiously optimistic, but the reality is that cost pressures and structural constraints are increasingly impacting delivery. ‘Without reforms to support viability and participation – particularly in public works – there is a real risk to the pace of infrastructure and housing delivery. ‘Looking ahead, demographic pressures from the mid-2030s will place further strain on public finances, underscoring the urgency of accelerating delivery today.’ Key Survey Findings:
Business turnover • • •
25% reported a yearon-year increase in turnover in Q1 2026 36% expect turnover to increase in Q2 2026 Home Building and Civil Engineering recorded the strongest year-on-year growth, particularly among smaller companies
New orders • • •
•
CIF CEO Andrew Brownlee
2 2 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
28% reported an increase in revenue from new orders in Q1 2026 32% expect further growth in Q2 2026 New orders were broadly flat to slightly negative in recent months, but expectations are more positive, with overall increases anticipated Growth is expected to be strongest in Specialist Contracting and Civil Engineering, while Home Building remains relatively stable
Costs and pricing •
94% reported an increase in raw
• •
• •
material costs in Q1 2026 96% expect further increases in Q2 2026 Cost increases were widespread across sectors and firm sizes, with particularly strong pressures among larger firms 66% reported an increase in project pricing, with 72% expecting further rises Pricing is expected to continue increasing, with the strongest upward pressure among small to mid-sized firms
Employment • • •
22% reported an increase in employment in Q1 2026 22% expect to increase staffing levels, while 65% anticipate no change Employment remained broadly stable overall, with modest growth expected in the coming months, particularly in Specialist Contracting
PROJECT NEWS
London Irish Centre appoints Sisk to build £36-38m Camden home Major redevelopment backed by Irish Government entering new phase, following appointment of Sisk as main contractor. The London Irish Centre has announced that Sisk, one of Ireland and Britain’s leading construction groups, has been appointed as main contractor for the approximate £36-38 million redevelopment of its home at 50-52 Camden Square in the city.
Seventy years Construction is expected to begin in January 2027, with the new centre scheduled to re-open in Q1, 2029 – the latest chapter in the story of an institution that has served the Irish community in Britain for over seventy years. London Irish Centre Chair Rosaleen Blair commented that the announcement was ‘a huge milestone, which follows almost ten years of careful planning. ‘In Sisk, we have engaged a worldclass builder to deliver a world-class home, that matches the aspirations of the Irish diaspora in Britain,’ she said.
‘To date, we have secured pledges covering a meaningful proportion of the estimated £36-38 million redevelopment cost, an extraordinary demonstration of confidence by our donors. ‘As we prepare for this exciting transformation, our task going forward is to secure the remainder of this total, which is vital in underwriting our future.’ The announcement was made following a visit to the Centre by Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The Minister met with representatives from the London Irish Centre and Sisk, receiving a tour of the current building and reviewing the projected site map and redevelopment plans.
Dynamic Speaking after his visit, Minister Richmond said: ‘The London Irish Centre remains a dynamic support,
welfare and cultural hub for the Irish in Britain. ‘Our continued investment supports the ongoing delivery of these vital services and cultural activities. ‘I was delighted to meet the team at the Centre this week and see the ambitious plans they have for the future of the Centre. ‘The Government has allocated 6.75 million euro to the redevelopment of the London Irish Centre, including our most recent grant earlier this year of 3.4 million euro, which was the largest single investment ever made in an Irish diaspora organisation. ‘This support reflects the commitments set out in Global Ireland 2025 and our new Diaspora Strategy to deepen our engagement with Irish communities overseas, particularly the most vulnerable members of our diaspora. ‘The new centre will provide a welcoming and inclusive space for many more generations of Irish diaspora.’
Neale Richmond T.D., Minister for State for International Development and Diaspora, pictured with representatives from the London Irish Centre and Sisk Construction. Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 23
PROJECT NEWS
in Britain A dedicated public library, housing the organisation’s collection of over 7,000 Irish literary works • Modern community, enterprise, and learning spaces • Accessible and dignified facilities for welfare and support services • Café, social, and gathering spaces, including a 250-seat banqueting capacity • A multi-level bar and social environment • Dedicated spaces for artists, rehearsals, and creative collaboration The building will retain its original three-storey facade, with the Murray Street terrace being expanded from two storeys to three. Outline planning permission for the redevelopment was granted in September 2020. Following a pause during the coronavirus pandemic, the project team was reconstituted in 2023 and final planning consent, including the Section 106 agreement, secured in May 2024. The tender process launched in late 2025. •
Exterior of the new London Irish Centre, pictured via Murray Street. Image: Coffey Architects.
Founded The London Irish Centre opened its doors at Camden Square in 1955, founded to provide employment, accommodation support and social connection for newly arrived Irish immigrants in London. Today it is the oldest and largest Irish centre in Britain, serving as both a welfare anchor and a cultural institution. In 2025 alone, the Centre welcomed 55,000 visitors for live events and cultural programming, helped more than 3,000 individuals with casework, secured £4.4 million in unclaimed benefits for the community, and served 10,000 meals to vulnerable clients. Current patrons include singer Ed Sheeran and television personality Dermot O’Leary.
Transformation of the site Having served its community for over 70 years in Camden Square, the London Irish Centre’s existing building no longer meets modern standards of accessibility, sustainability, or
functionality. Following a strategic review by the Centre’s Board of Trustees, the group has set out an ambitious agenda for the complete redevelopment of its site. Designed for the modern Irish community in Britain and all those drawn to Irish culture, the new building will be a worldclass destination for Irish culture, community and enterprise enabling the Charity to have a greater impact, befitting the scale and contribution of the Irish in Britain.
Three floors The new building, designed by Coffey Architects, will be laid out over three floors and include: • A two-tiered, 400-seat (600-standing) multi-purpose performance space • London’s first dedicated Irish theatre • A state-of-the-art 130 seat raked studio theatre and cinema • A heritage and archive centre preserving the history of the Irish
Proud Ger Hayes, managing director, Sisk Construction UK said: ‘We are extremely proud to have been selected as main contractor and to be entrusted with the construction of the new London Irish Centre in Camden. ‘The charity has provided a unique welfare hub for Irish diaspora in London for over 70 years. ‘Together, with the team at LIC we will create a modern facility that celebrates this heritage and provides a lasting legacy for future generations.’
Strategy The redevelopment is recognised within Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030, which sets out the Irish Government’s commitment to supporting Irish communities overseas. The London Irish Centre was the first organisation to receive annual Emigrant Support Programme funding in excess of one million, which is allocated towards its diverse service and programme offering. The Centre consistently ranks as the largest single recipient of the grant programme.
Continuity Interior of the new London Irish Centre’s dedicated performance space. Image: TODD Architects 2 4 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
During the estimated two-year construction phase, the London Irish Centre will remain fully operational.
2026 RIAI ARCHITECTURE AWARDS
The winners of the 2026 RIAI Architecture Awards demonstrate the quality being delivered by Registered Architects across Ireland and internationally.
24 projects recognised for transforming everyday life in Ireland
This year’s Awards recognise 24 projects across 12 categories, showcasing the impact of architectural excellence on buildings and places central to our everyday lives.
Vital role From restored heritage buildings and revitalised public spaces to innovative housing, schools and workplaces, the winning projects demonstrate architecture’s vital role in shaping the places and services that impact people every day. In addition to the jury Awards, the RIAI Public Choice Award, where the Irish public vote for their favourite building or public space, was also revealed. The New Special Educational Needs School in Letterkenny, by McGarry Ní Éanaigh Architects, was voted Ireland’s favourite building in 2026, topping a shortlist of 44 projects. The runners-up were: Project Connect, RCSI by Henry J Lyons (2nd Place) and Shackleton Experience by K-Design Studio and OBFA (3rd Place).
Showcase RIAI President, Fionnnuala May FRIAI said: ‘The RIAI Awards showcase the ability of architecture to respond to some of the most important challenges facing society today. ‘From delivering high-quality housing and creating more inclusive public spaces to supporting healthcare, education and sustainable development, this year's winning projects demonstrate how good design can improve people's lives in meaningful and lasting ways. ‘Architects are working with the State and communities to deliver innovative public buildings and infrastructure that will support the needs of current and future generations.’
RIAI Awards Jury 2026 Seán Moylan FRIAI, Chair; Máire Henry MRIAI, Vice Chair; Frances Ruane, Chairperson, National Competitiveness and Productivity Council; Distinguished Guest Juror, Paul Durcan MRIAI; Vicky Landy FRIAI; Nigel Murray MRIAI; Owen
O’Doherty MRIAI; Fionnuala Rogerson FRIAI; Sally Starbuck FRIAI; Poppy Van Dijk MRIAI
Adaptation and Re-Use WINNER: Kilsaran Headquarters Architects: ABK Architects Client: Kilsaran (pictured above)
Adaption & Reuse Winner: Student Residence at Fenian Street by Lawrence and Long Architects. Photo by Bernadette Keating.
WINNER: Student Residence at Fenian Street Architects: Lawrence and Long
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2026 RIAI ARCHITECTURE AWARDS
COMMENDED: n2 Architects: Lynch Architects Client: Landsec
Architects Client: Royal Irish Academy of Music WINNER: Squaring the Circle Architects: McCullough Mulvin Architects Client: Clare County Council
COMMENDED: Storm King Art Center Architects: heneghan peng architects and WXY Architecture and Urbanism Client: Storm King Art Center Conservation Winner: The Magazine Fort, Phoenix Park by Office of Public Works. Photo by Fionn McCann.
Adaption & Reuse Winner: Winner: Squaring the Circle by McCullough Mulvin Architects. Photo by Fionn McCann.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Surgical Hub North Dublin Architects: O'Connell Mahon Architects Client: John Sisk & Son (Design & Build Client) and HSE (Building End User) COMMENDED: Convent Lands Supported Housing Architects: OBFA Client: SOPHIA Housing Association and Laois County Council
Conservation WINNER: Blackrock Park Teahouse Architects: 7L Architects Client: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council
HIGHLY COMMENDED: O'Reilly's Public House Architects: Lawrence and Long Architects Client: Eirgo Limited HIGHLY COMMENDED: Royal Hospital Kilmainham North Range Architects: Office of Public Works in conjunction with 7L Architects Client: Office of Public Works
Living: House – Adaptation WINNER: Greenville Terrace Architects: Rachel Carmody Design Client: Private WINNER: Pembroke Cottages Architects: REIR Studio Client: Private
COMMENDED: Central Hotel Architects: McCullough Mulvin Architects Client: BCP Capital
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Bellevue Heights Architects: REIR Studio Client: Private
COMMENDED: Howth DART Station Canopy Architects: Iarnród Éireann Architects and FKP Architects as Grade 1 Conservation Architect Consultant Client: Iarnród Éireann Building & Facilities Department
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Havelock Architects: Scullion Architects Client: Private
International WINNER: Ireland House Tokyo Architects: Henry J Lyons Client: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Conservation Winner: Blackrock Park Teahouse by 7L Architects. Photo by Bernadette Keating.
International Winner: Ireland House Tokyo by Henry J Lyons.
WINNER: The Magazine Fort, Phoenix Park Architects: Office of Public Works Client: Office of Public Works National Historic Properties
COMMENDED: Ireland's Pavilion at Expo 2025, Osaka Architects: Office of Public Works Client: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade COMMENDED: Komorebi Architects: ConForm Architects Client: Private
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COMMENDED: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority HQ Architects: Bucholz McEvoy Architects and ZAS Architects Client: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
Living House Adaption Winner: Greenville Terrace by Rachel Carmody Design. Photo by Peter Molloy.
Living House Adaption Winner: Pembroke Cottages by REIR Studio. Photo by Peter Molloy.
Living: House – New Build WINNER: O-House Architects: Lawrence and Long Architects Client: Private
2026 RIAI ARCHITECTURE AWARDS
Living House New Build Winner: O-House by Lawrence and Long Architects. Photo by Bernadette Keating
COMMENDED: Cruit Island Architects: Pasparakis Friel Client: Private
Living: Housing WINNER: Bóithrín na Saoirse Architects: desiun Architects Client: Galway City Council and CENA Culturally Appropriate Homes
Living Housing Winner: Glin Court by Paul Keogh Architects. Photo by Donal Murphy.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The Weir Architects: Seán Harrington Architects Client: Clúid Housing Association COMMENDED: Housing at Clonliffe Road Architects: Seán Harrington Architects Client: Bartra
Public Buildings Winner: Project Connect, RCSI by Henry J Lyons. Photo by Donal Murphy.
WINNER: University of Limerick Student Centre Architects: Cotter & Naessens Architects Client: University of Limerick
COMMENDED: Páirc Aonaigh Architects: van Dijk Architects Client: Wexford County Council
Public Buildings WINNER: Barretstown Medical Centre Architects: McCauley Daye O'Connell Architects Client: Barretstown Camp Living Housing Winner: Bóithrín na Saoirse by desiun Architects. Photo by Ste Murray.
WINNER: Shanganagh Castle Estate Architects: ABK Architects Client: Land Development Agency in collaboration with Dún LaoghaireRathdown County Council
Public Buildings Winner: University of Limerick Student Centre by Cotter & Naessens Architects. Photo by Ste Murray.
COMMENDED: Bon Secours Hospital Limerick Architects: Reddy A+U and HOK (Design Architect) Client: Bon Secours Health System Public Buildings Winner: Barretstown Medical Centre by McCauley Daye O'Connell Architects. Photo by Michael Conlon.
WINNER: East Meath Civic Centre Architects: Robin Lee Architecture Client: Meath County Council
COMMENDED: Quayside Water Sports Centre Architects: Urban Agency Architects Client: Dublin City Council
Workplace and Fit-Out WINNER: Leeson Lane Office Building Architects: Office of Public Works Client: Department of Culture, Communications, and Sport and Department of Finance
Living Housing Winner: Shanganagh Castle Estate by ABK Architects. Photo by Ste Murray.
WINNER: Glin Court Architects: Paul Keogh Architects Client: Dublin City Council
Public Buildings Winner: East Meath Civic Centre by Robin Lee Architecture. Photo by Donal Murphy.
WINNER: Project Connect, RCSI Architects: Henry J Lyons Client: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Workplace & Fitout Winner: Leeson Lane Office Building by Office of Public Works. Photo by Ros Kavanagh.
WINNER: Offices at Earlsfort Terrace Architects: Lawrence and Long
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2026 RIAI ARCHITECTURE AWARDS
Architects Client: ALC Aircraft Ltd
and Youth and School Board of Management
COMMENDED: Annex Building Iarnród Éireann HQ Architects: Iarnród Éireann Architects Client: Iarnród Éireann Building & Facilities Department COMMENDED: Shackleton Experience Architects: K-Design Studio and OBFA Client: Kildare County Council
Workplace & Fitout Winner: Offices at Earlsfort Terrace by Lawrence and Long Architects. Photo by Bernadette Keating.
COMMENDED: Google Bolands Mills Fit-Out Architects: Henry J Lyons Client: Google
Universal Design Winner: New Special Educational Needs School, Letterkenny by McGarry Ní Éanaigh Architects. Photo by Richard Hatch.
WINNER: Google Bolands Mills Public Realm Architects: Henry J Lyons and Gustafson Porter + Bowman Client: Google
Urban Design WINNER: Google Bolands Mills Public Realm Architects: Henry J Lyons and Gustafson Porter + Bowman Client: Google
Urban Design Winner: Google Bolands Mills Public Realm by Henry J Lyons and Gustafson Porter + Bowman. Photo by Gareth Byrne.
COMMENDED: Bóithrín na Saoirse Architects: desiun Architects Client: Galway City Council and CENA Culturally Appropriate Homes
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Stonemount Park Architects: DSA Client: Dwyer Nolan and The Iveagh Trust
COMMENDED: Project Connect, RCSI Architects: Henry J Lyons Client: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Sustainability WINNER: Vantage Business Park Architects: Gottstein Architects Client: Newpark Real Estate and Bain Capital
COMMENDED: Monaghan Town THRIVE Regeneration Plan Architects: John McLaughlin Architects Client: Monaghan County Council
Universal Design WINNER: New Special Educational Needs School, Letterkenny Architect: McGarry Ní Éanaigh Architects Client: Department of Education
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Research WINNER: Computational Conservation: Bridging the Domain Gap in Historic Building Data Architect: David Hughes FRIAI Client: National Scientific Committee on Energy Sustainability and Climate Change (NSCES+CC) ICOMOS Ireland WINNER: Vacant to Viable (Part 1) Barriers of the Building Regulations to Existing Building Reuse Architect: Triona Stack MRIAI, UCD School of Architecture Planning and Environmental Policy, with Dr Philip Crowe and the Irish Green Building Council
Universal Design Winner: Google Bolands Mills Public Realm by Henry J Lyons and Gustafson Porter + Bowman. Photo by Gareth Byrne.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Convent Lands Supported Housing Architects: OBFA Client: SOPHIA Housing Association and Laois County Council
COMMENDED: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority Headquarters Architects: Bucholz McEvoy Architects and ZAS Architects Client: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
Sustainability Winner: Vantage Business Park by Gottstein Architects. Photo by Fionn McCann.
COMMENDED: Embodied Carbon Architects: Henry J Lyons COMMENDED: Industrial Heritage of Brackenstown Walled Gardens Architects: John McLaughlin Architects Client: Fingal County Council COMMENDED: UPGRADE+UPSKILL Research & Training Initiative: Energy Renovation of Heritage Properties in State Care Architects: Office of Public Works
Client Award WINNER: Dwyer Nolan and The Iveagh Trust Project: Stonemount Park Client: DSA WINNER: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Project: Project Connect Architect: Henry J Lyons
OUT & ABOUT
World Green Building Week 2026 showcases resilient green buildings and communities World Green Building Week – the world’s largest campaign dedicated to a sustainable built environment – kicked off with a host of events across Ireland exploring how better buildings can help communities and businesses to build resilience and prepare for tomorrow’s environmental, social, and economic challenges. Pat Barry, Irish Green Building Council CEO, said: ‘Buildings are not simply places where we live and work – they are essential to creating healthier communities, reducing emissions, improving resilience and unlocking economic opportunity, as showcased by our packed lineup of tours, webinars and other events for World Green Building Week 2026.’ Highlights of World Green Building Week 2026 in Ireland included:
In-person Sustainable Communities at Scale (Dublin 7). Tuath Housing hosted an in-person session at Montpellier, Dublin 7, a large-scale mixed-use development delivering cost rental,
social and affordable homes alongside community infrastructure, retail and green space. This session would explore the sustainable design and communityfocused features of the development. Apex Hub Tour (Dublin 12). Park Developments hosted a tour of Apex Hub, a logistics development in Dublin, showcasing the design elements and construction approaches implemented to achieve LEED Gold Certification.*
Thoughtful Connaught House (Dublin 4). Hosted by Fine Grain Property, this tour of Connaught House demonstrated how thoughtful refurbishment can reduce environmental impact, enhance occupier wellbeing, improve operational performance and create long-term value for owners and tenants in a commercial property. Passivhaus at Scale – Learnings from Whitehaven (Dublin 9). Hosted by Tuath Housing, this tour of the Whitehaven development would explore the practical experience of
About World Green Building Week World Green Building Week is the world’s largest campaign to accelerate a sustainable built environment for everyone, everywhere. Organised by the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), the week is led by a global network of over 85 Green Building Councils and their 51,000 member organisations.
Connaught House tour
About the Irish Green Building Council: The IGBC is Ireland’s leading authority on green building best practices with a network of over 480 green building organisations spanning the entire built environment industry.
delivering high-performance, energyefficient homes and the lessons emerging from their post-occupancy evaluation, as well as what residents are experiencing in their homes.
Immersive Natural Capital: Protect Your Supply Chain (Co Longford). An immersive guided tour of a 22-hectare naturebased restoration project that demonstrates how investment in nature can deliver measurable environmental, social and business value. Discovering how nature-based solutions can strengthen supply chain resilience, improve biodiversity, enhance water quality, capture carbon, and create long-term value for organisations seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
Partnership Decarbonisation and Nature in the Built Environment (Dublin 2). The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC), in partnership with the Carbon Disclosure Project Ireland Network, hosted a discussion on the role of finance and disclosure in advancing decarbonisation and naturepositive outcomes across the built environment. * LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a widely used rating system for green buildings across the globe developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED offers a comprehensive framework that promotes healthy, efficient, and cost-effective building practices for various types of buildings. Launched in 1998, LEED has been gaining traction around the world – in fact 1 of every 3 LEED projects is outside the United States. According to USGBC, there are more than 200 certified projects in Ireland. Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 29
OUT & ABOUT
Students gathered for Ireland’s largest skills event at WorldSkills Ireland 2026 Running from 16-18 September, Ireland's largest skills and apprenticeship event offered young people the chance to discover handson career opportunities, explore apprenticeships and experience the world of skills firsthand.
Key fixture Now firmly established as a key fixture in the school calendar, WorldSkills Ireland offers an immersive and inspiring experience for young people exploring career pathways beyond traditional academic routes. At the event 160 finalists demonstrated their technical expertise, knowledge and professionalism as they competed for the prestigious DFHERIS Silver Medal 2026. These live competitions showcased the exceptional talent, dedication and ambition of Ireland’s apprentices and students, while highlighting the vital role skills development plays in building a competitive, innovative and future-ready workforce.
Pathway The competition offered a pathway to representing Ireland at the 49th International WorldSkills Competition in Japan in 2028. Meanwhile, Ireland’s 2025 National Skills Competition winners would, at time of writing, be preparing to compete in 15 skill categories at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai. Held every two years, WorldSkills International is the global benchmark for skills excellence, with Ireland’s national competitions serving as a key pathway to international selection.
Future Speaking at WorldSkills Ireland, Minister Lawless said: ‘WorldSkills Ireland gives us a glimpse of the future workforce. ‘It's a chance to see talented young people putting their skills to the test and showcasing the creativity and expertise that employers across Ireland are looking for.
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OUT & ABOUT
‘What's particularly exciting is the diversity of careers on display.
Demand ‘As technology continues to transform how we live and work, the demand for skilled people has never been greater. ‘One of the biggest challenges facing employers is finding the talent they need, and that's where apprenticeships have such an important role to play. ‘They provide people with a direct pathway into rewarding careers while helping employers build the workforce they need for the future. ‘Events like WorldSkills Ireland remind us that investing in skills is investing in people, and in Ireland's future success.’
More than competition Ray English, Official Delegate, WorldSkills Ireland, said: ‘WorldSkills Ireland is about far more than competition. ‘It is about inspiring the next generation to discover the opportunities that exist through skills, apprenticeships, further and higher education, and industry. ‘Every year, we see thousands of young people engage directly with careers they may never have considered before, meeting employers, educators and skilled professionals who are shaping Ireland's future workforce.
Vital role ‘This event celebrates excellence, ambition and achievement, while demonstrating the vital role that skills play in driving innovation, economic growth and sustainable career opportunities across Ireland. ‘We are proud to work alongside the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, SOLAS, & our industry partners and education providers in showcasing the extraordinary talent and potential of our young people.’
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 31
OUT & ABOUT
ESB Networks apprentices mark completion of training at SETU ceremony This special event marked a day of celebration for apprentices who completed their four-year programme. A total of 96 apprentices received their level six Electrical Trade Certificate alongside their supportive family, friends and ESB representatives.
Welcomed Apprentices, family and friends were welcomed by Frank Murphy, Senior Manager, Technical Training and Development at ESB Networks. Frank shared: ‘Today is a celebration not only of what you have achieved, but of the role you will play in shaping Ireland's future.
‘You have earned a world-class qualification and are entering a profession that sits at the heart of the transition to a low-carbon economy. ‘Every line you build, every connection you make and every challenge you overcome will help enable a more sustainable, resilient and net zero future for generations to come.’
Gateway The ESB Networks Electrical Apprenticeship Programme is a great gateway to a rewarding career in the energy sector, combining college-based learning and hands-on
experience within ESB Networks. In 2025 SETU and ESB Networks collaborated together to form a partnership that highlights the shared commitment to skills development, education, and technological progress. The partnership explores new methods of technology, including blended delivery models and virtual reality applications. The collaboration has successfully strengthened the gap between industry and academia.
Delighted Anne Meaney, SETU’s Head of Extended Campus said: ‘We are delighted to be able to celebrate the hard work of the ESB Networks Apprentices. SETU’s collaboration with ESB Networks enhances the energy sector while developing learning, upskilling and innovation. ‘Together, we are able to share expertise, develop cutting-edge training programmes and benefit the wider community.’
International Micro-, Small- and MediumSized Enterprises day Recognising the impact of construction MSMEs
pressures, managing rising costs, workforce development, an increasingly complex regulatory environment, and the need to go digital.
Each year, International Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSME) Day highlights the critical role smaller businesses play in driving employment, innovation and economic growth.
Unique challenges
Significant In Ireland’s construction sector, MSMEs make up a significant proportion of the industry, and supporting their resilience and growth is essential to the sector’s future. The CIF provides practical supports, representation and expertise to help MSMEs navigate an increasingly complex operating environment.
Backbone CIF CEO Andrew Brownlee said: ‘Construction SMEs are the backbone
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of the sector, delivering the homes and infrastructure that communities across Ireland need. ‘In fact, 91% of CIF’s members are small and medium enterprises. ‘This International MSME Day, we’d like to acknowledge the work of these companies as they deliver vital construction projects to support local communities and the wider economy. ‘We know from talking to our SME members that they face significant
‘Construction SMEs also face a unique set of challenges, with many being owner-manager led, overseeing busy workloads in a highdemand environment and juggling day-today operations, while actively and successfully delivering projects. ‘Despite this, they continue to show remarkable resilience, adapting to change, finding solutions and consistently stepping up to deliver for their clients and communities. ‘We’d encourage all construction SMEs to get in touch with us to find out more about how we can help you meet your business needs.
PERSONAL & FINANCE
Want to not only be your best, but to also be appreciated for the value you bring? Make sure you’re in your element. Here’s the expert opinion from Jeff Haden
Feeling underappreciated? Instead of trying to change yourself, change your environment A guy wearing jeans, a t-shirt, and a ball cap walked into a Washington, D.C. Metro station and took out a $3.5 million violin. He left the case open on the floor in front of him, as buskers do. He played for 40 minutes. Seven people paused, however briefly, to listen. One recognized him. A few placed money in the case. Eleven hundred people ignored him. Sound about right for a street performer?
Acclaimed Not in this case: the violinist was Joshua Bell, an internationally acclaimed virtuoso widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest violinists, conducting an experiment on behalf of The Washington Post. As Billy Oppenheimer notes in his weekly newsletter, Post reporter Gene Weingarten called it proof of ‘the loss of the appreciation for beauty in the modern world…If we can’t take the time out of our lives to stay a moment and listen to one of the best musicians
on Earth – then what else are we missing?’ Maybe Weingarten was right.
Habitat But Bell was also ignored because, like seeing a tiger in a zoo, people encountered him outside his natural habitat. In a train station, Bell just seemed like a dude hanging out by the subway trying to score a little cash. Put Bell onstage at Carnegie Hall and the opposite would likely occur: even on his worst night, he’s Joshua Bell. At Carnegie Hall. The audience will probably still walk away feeling his performance was incredible.
Stressing ‘I was stressing,’ he said in the Post article. ‘When you play for ticketholders, you are already validated. ‘I have no sense that I need to be accepted. I’m already accepted. ‘Here, there was this thought: “What if they don’t like me? What if they resent my presence?”’ That’s the real takeway. Skill, talent,
quality… all are important, but so is the environment in which they exist.
Value Your customers don’t appreciate the value you provide? Don’t expect them to change; instead, find ways to reach customers who will. Your boss doesn’t see your potential? Don’t expect them to change; instead, find a workplace where your potential is recognized and even fostered.
Expertise You should absolutely work hard to gain greater expertise. To gain more experience. To become the best you can possibly be, in whatever pursuit you choose. But at the same time you also need to work to find environments where, like Joshua Bell in a subway station, your objective value is appreciated.
Appreciated Because then you can truly be the best you can possibly be — and be appreciated for it. @jeff_haden
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PERSONAL & FINANCE
A sizeable 81% of tradespeople say a quick chat improves their wellbeing, as almost half spend four hours per day working alone. This news came as Chadwicks launched its third year of its mental health campaign with Richie Sadlier.
How’s the Head? Encouraging tradespeople to stay connected! More than four in five (81%) tradespeople say a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact on their wellbeing, according to new research from Chadwicks.
Highlighting The findings come as almost half (45%) of tradespeople spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone, highlighting the important role everyday conversations can play in helping people stay connected. The research has been carried out to mark the third year of Chadwicks’ ‘How’s the Head?’ campaign, in partnership with broadcaster and psychotherapist Richie Sadlier.
Connections This year’s campaign focuses on the value of everyday connections, recognising that while working independently is a valued part of life in the trades, day-to-day interactions with others can play an important role in supporting overall wellbeing. As part of the campaign, Chadwicks has launched a new content series with Richie Sadlier. It features tea and chats with people from across the industry about maintaining relationships, wellbeing and the importance of checking in.
The importance of staying connected The research showcases why everyday conversations are key for tradespeople during busy working weeks. Some 83% agree that staying in touch with friends and family is important for their overall wellbeing. And 48% say interactions with other people during the working day are very or extremely important. 3 4 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
Phone calls (35%) are the most common way tradespeople stay connected during the working week, followed by social media at 33% and spending time with family at 28%.
Call During work travel, almost half (45%) say they call someone for a chat at least once a day, while a further 32% do so a few times a week. Partners and spouses are the most common source of support, with 42% most likely to call their partner or spouse during work travel. The findings suggest these everyday conversations play an important role in helping lift tradespeople’s moods during long working days.
Working independently Working independently is a key part of life in the trades, and the research shows that many tradespeople value the flexibility it brings. More than a quarter (27%), say the best thing about working
independently is being able to work at their own pace, while 23% value the flexibility it provides and 13% enjoy being their own boss. While tradespeople value the independence and flexibility the job offers, the research also highlights the reality that many spend long periods working alone. When asked about the challenges of working alone, 42% cited pressure to get jobs completed on time, followed by managing multiple responsibilities (37%) and the long hours (35%). Getting the balance right between work and personal life was also highlighted as challenging by 34% of respondents.
The power of a quick chat Whether it’s a call in the van, catching up with someone on site or checking in after a long day, the data suggests these everyday conversations play an important role in a tradesperson’s work life. Supporting this, more than four in
PERSONAL & FINANCE
At a glance •
• •
•
81% of tradespeople agree that a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact Almost half (45%) spend at least four hours of a typical working day alone 83% agree that staying connected with friends and family is important for their overall wellbeing Nearly three-quarters (72%) believe the trade industry is becoming more open about wellbeing and mental health
the Head?” continues to open up important conversations around mental health and wellbeing across the trade industry. ‘At Chadwicks, we recognise the pride, skill and resilience that define the trades, but we also know that some of the challenges people face can go unseen. ‘We want to encourage tradespeople to check in with one another, make time for everyday conversations and continue building a culture where people feel comfortable talking about how they are really doing.’
Encouraging
five (81%) tradespeople agree that a quick chat with someone during the day has a positive impact on their wellbeing. Over half (53%) agree they find it difficult to make social plans because of their work schedule.
Conscious But many tradespeople make a conscious effort for connection outside of work. Some 66% see friends socially once a week, while a further 21% see friends a few times a month. Attitudes towards wellbeing also appear to be shifting. Nearly threequarters (72%) believe the trade industry is becoming more open about wellbeing and mental health. Three in five (60%) say they feel comfortable talking openly about their own mental health.
Proud Speaking about the campaign, Richie
Sadlier said: ‘I’m proud to partner with Chadwicks again for the third year of "How’s the Head"? ‘What stands out in this year’s research is that working independently is a big part of life in the trades and, for many people, it is something they value. ‘It brings freedom, flexibility and pride in getting the job done. ‘But the research also shows how important connection is. Whether it’s a phone call while travelling to another job, general chats on the site or making the effort to check in with a friend, it can make a real difference. ‘This campaign is about reminding tradespeople that those everyday conversations matter and that looking after your mental wellbeing does not have to be complicated. ‘It can start with a simple chat.’
Important Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks, added: ‘Now in its third year, “How’s
As part of this year's How's the Head campaign, Chadwicks has been encouraging tradespeople to take five minutes for a Builder's Brew. Whether it's checking in with a mate, making a call on the drive between jobs or taking time for a chat over a cup of tea, small everyday conversations can make a real difference. If you or a loved one are in need of mental health support, Aware’s free education, telephone and group supports can help. For more information visit aware.ie or freephone 1800 80 48 48 today. Aware is the national charity providing free support, therapy, education, and information to those affected by depression, bipolar and anxiety. For more information on the Chadwicks ‘How’s the Head?’ campaign, visit @ chadwicks_ie on Instagram or @ chadwicksie on TikTok. *According to research of 100 tradespeople in Ireland, conducted by 3Gem in June 2026.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 35
TRAINING & CAREERS
‘Ireland’s built environment joins forces to accelerate gender equality’ A coalition of leading organisations from across Ireland’s built environment sector has launched Constructing Equality Ireland. This new industry-led initiative, facilitated by Business in the Community Ireland, aims to accelerate progress on gender equality and increase the representation of women at all levels across the construction industry.
Collaboratively Established by Founding Partners from across the construction sector, Constructing Equality Ireland will bring organisations together to develop practical, evidencebased solutions that collaboratively increase the attraction, retention and progression of women. The initiative is backed by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and Women in Construction Ireland (WICI), who sit alongside the Founding Partners on the Steering Group. While individual organisations have made important progress in recent years, women remain significantly
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underrepresented across the sector. Recent data highlights the scale of the challenge, with women accounting for just 10.9% of the construction workforce in Ireland, while holding only 9.1% of board positions and 15.2% of senior leadership roles across the sector.
the development of an industrywide Gender Equality Action Plan, providing practical and scalable actions that organisations can adopt regardless of their size, resources or level of maturity. More details will be released soon (at time of writing).
Approach
Ambitious
Recognising that many of the barriers facing women in construction are shared across the industry and cannot be solved by organisations acting alone, Constructing Equality Ireland will take a collaborative approach, bringing together industry expertise, lived experience and evidence to identify practical actions that can drive meaningful and lasting change. As an initial pilot programme, Constructing Equality Ireland will host a series of industry roundtables focused on early career recruitment and the retention of women in construction. Open to organisations of all sizes across the built environment sector, these discussions will inform
Tomás Sercovich, CEO of Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI), remarked on the launch of the initiative: ‘At a time when the built environment sector is growing, and infrastructure projects are becoming more ambitious, we cannot afford to leave half of our population behind and excluded from the immense and diverse employment opportunities available. ‘Business in the Community Ireland is privileged to bring its expertise in facilitating a multi-sector collective action campaign to truly move the dial and make fulfilling careers a reality for women in the built environment sector.
TRAINING & CAREERS
‘Coalitions like these require significant leadership and long-term perspective, and we commend the Founding Partners for their ambition, innovation and systemic approach.’
Progress Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Amy Martin, EDI Partner at Sisk, and Chair of Constructing Equality Ireland said: ‘As a woman working in construction, I’ve experienced firsthand the progress our industry has made and the barriers that still exist. ‘Many of the challenges facing women in construction are not unique to one organisation. ‘They are shared across our industry, and lasting change will only happen when we move beyond isolated efforts and work together. It requires collaboration, commitment and action. ‘Constructing Equality Ireland creates a platform for collective action, bringing organisations together to share experiences, turn shared challenges into shared solutions, and accelerate progress for women across the built environment. ‘No single organisation has all the answers, but together we have an opportunity to drive meaningful and
lasting change for the future of our industry.’
Essential Andrew Brownlee, Chief Executive at the CIF, remarked on the launch of the initiative: ‘Building a more diverse construction industry is essential to attracting the talent, skills and leadership Ireland will need to deliver its future housing and infrastructure. While progress is being made, the continued underrepresentation of women across the sector shows that no organisation can address this challenge in isolation. ‘Constructing Equality Ireland provides an important platform for industry to work collectively, share evidence and develop practical actions that support women to enter, remain and progress within construction. ‘CIF is pleased to support this initiative and looks forward to helping ensure that the resulting Gender Equality Action Plan is relevant, scalable and capable of being implemented by businesses of every size across the sector.’
Launched Constructing Equality Ireland has been launched by the following Founding Partners drawn from across Ireland’s built environment: AstraZeneca, Bord Gáis Energy, Designer Group, Dornan Engineering, John Paul Construction, John Sisk & Son, Jones Engineering, Kirby Group Engineering, Turner & Townsend, and Walls Construction. While these organisations provide funding, leadership and strategic direction for the initiative, participation in the roundtables will be open to organisations of all sizes from across the built environment sector.
Contribute Contractors, consultants, clients, developers, supply chain partners and industry stakeholders are encouraged to contribute their insights and experiences to help shape the resulting Gender Equality Action Plan. Organisations interested in participating in the roundtables can contact Business in the Community Ireland (at constructingequality@bitc. ie) or Amy Martin, EDI Partner at Sisk and Chair of Constructing Equality Ireland (amymartin@sisk.ie), for further information.
TRAINING & CAREERS
Keeping it in the family: Nine in ten young adults in Northern Ireland would consider following family into the trades Nine in ten (93%) young adults in Northern Ireland would consider joining a family business and 96% would feel proud to continue it, according to new research from MacBlair, one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants.
previously worked in a trade. Over half (54%) have spent time on a building site or in a traderelated workplace through a family connection, while 47% have been offered the opportunity to learn trade skills informally through a relative.
Important
Benefit
The research, conducted among 100 young adults aged 16 to 24 and 50 tradespeople, highlights the important role family connections continue to play in introducing the next generation to careers in the trades, while revealing a need to make apprenticeship pathways clearer and more accessible to young people regardless of their family background. The findings suggest family members can play an important role in giving young people early exposure to skilled careers. Nearly three quarters (71%) of young adults surveyed have a family member who currently works or
For young adults, the biggest perceived benefit of working in a family business is job security and stability cited buy 37%, while tradespeople are most likely to value the trust that comes with working alongside family. However, the research also highlights the importance of ensuring young people can explore careers in the trades regardless of whether they have an existing family connection to the industry. Three-quarters (76%) believe apprenticeships are easier to access for those who already have family working in the trades.
While there is an awareness of apprenticeships among young people, there is an opportunity to provide greater clarity around how to take the first step.
Aware More than two in five (42%) say they are aware of apprenticeships but don’t know where to begin, while only a third (31%) know how to apply for one.
TUS sets out €750m Masterplan to Transform Campuses and Drive Economic Growth Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 37 developments outlined in the
TRAINING & CAREERS
TU Dublin announces strategic partnership with Fleetwood Paints Ltd. The School of Architecture, Building & Environment (SABE), Technological University Dublin, was recently pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with Fleetwood Paints Ltd.
Support Through this investment in education and skills development, Fleetwood Paints will support apprentice training within the Painting & Decorating section over the next two years, providing paints, materials and technical expertise to enhance the student learning experience. This commitment reflects a shared belief in the importance of developing the next generation of skilled professionals and ensuring that apprentices have access to industry-leading products, knowledge and opportunities throughout their training.
Innovations Beyond supplying high-performance paints and materials, Fleetwood Paints will contribute its latest product innovations and sustainable application techniques through a series of talks and demonstrations for apprentices, students and industry professionals engaging with SABE. The partnership includes: • Product Integration: Full access to Fleetwood Paints' professional product lines for practical training modules. • Expert Masterclasses: Regular
3 8 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
guest lectures and technical demonstrations led by Fleetwood Paints' research and development. • The Fleetwood Paints Excellence Award: An annual professional toolkit awarded to an outstanding apprentice in recognition of excellence and achievement. Speaking at the official launch, David McCoy, Head of Sales at Fleetwood Paints, said: ‘Fleetwood has been over 75 years supplying decorating professionals with its industry leading range of paints and product applicators.
Investment ‘From our manufacturing base in Virginia Co Cavan, we have a programme of continuous investment in chemists, paint manufacture, quality and product design. ‘As Ireland’s largest Indigenous paint manufacturer, we are delighted to be partnering with the painting and decorating section of TU Dublin. ‘It is important to us that we are part of the education and training of the next generation of professional painters and decorators.’
Calibre Tom Lundy, Lecturer in Painting & Decorating, commented: ‘Our industry’s future depends entirely on the calibre of talent we develop today. ‘By providing apprentices with the same professional-grade tools and
expert insights they will use on the job, we are ensuring they enter the workforce with confidence and a competitive edge.’ Head of Discipline, Joseph Little, said he was ‘delighted that the School can work with an innovative Irish manufacturer while driving standards in painting and decorating.
Important ‘Partnerships such as this demonstrate the important role industry can play in supporting education and helping students prepare for professional practice.’ Both Tom and David agree that these synergies and connections are vital in the training of apprentices, with Tom saying: ‘This is a great example of the real world in the classroom and workshop. ‘This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to training excellence and the promotion of painting and decorating as a skilled, high-demand career path.’
Delighted Head of School, Patrick Flynn, commented: ‘I am delighted that the school will be working with such a leading partner in the paint industry, and we are really grateful for their support. ‘I would also like to thank Tom, Eric and Joseph for all their work in bringing this initiative to fruition.’
TRAINING & CAREERS
Engineers Ireland’s educational outreach programme, STEPS, launched Nature Engineers A sustainability workshop for primary schools delivered by engineers. Nature Engineers is an interactive, engineering experience designed for primary schools and supported by industry partners.
Pilot The initiative has already seen successful pilot workshops hosted at Swords Educate Together and Virgin Mary Girls’ National School, Ballymun. Aimed at 5th and 6th class students, the initiative introduces children to sustainability concepts, such as rainwater garden design, through hands on workshops. Delivered by local volunteer engineers, Nature Engineers highlights the vital role engineering plays in addressing environmental issues.
Activities During the workshop, engineers discuss Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and students take part in two practical activities: • Mapping their local area to identify how rainfall affects their community and where flooding risks may occur; • Designing and testing Lego structures and modifying them with SuDS features to explore how engineered solutions can mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall.
Children from Swords Educate Together take part in the Nature Engineers sustainability workshop. the next generation of engineering talent,’ says Camila Carnevale, ESG & Sustainability Partner, Mitie The Nature Engineers pilot in Virgin Mary Girls National School, Ballymun was delivered by volunteers Cathy, Janet, Kieran and Rachel from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) who shared stories from their careers and engaged students in discussion.
Each student receives a certificate to mark their participation. The Nature Engineers pilot in Swords Educate Together was delivered by volunteer engineers Camila, Daniel and Marianne from Mitie who shared insights into their careers and answered questions from enthusiastic students.
Fantastic ‘We had a fantastic time meeting the girls, helping them with their projects and hearing their ideas and presentations. How talented the class were, blew us all away,’ adds Janet Lynch Sustainability Co-Ordinator, Capital Projects, Light Rail, Transport Infrastructure Ireland Schools and industry supporters interested in participating can contact the STEPS team at steps@ engineersireland.ie.
Highlight ‘A key highlight for the Mitie Ireland team was the opportunity to engage directly with students. ‘Their positivity, enthusiasm and warm welcome made the experience genuinely rewarding, reflecting the strong connections we are building and our commitment to inspiring
Volunteer engineers. Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 39
The SAFEGARD V5
The Ultimate Intelligent Smoke & Fire Damper Control System
Safegard V5
For more information visit www.safegard.ie or call 01 2761600 or email info@safegard.ie 4 0 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
www.safegard.ie
Safegard Systems elevates fire and smoke control standards
Leading the charge in fire safety innovation In an era where fire safety standards are under intense scrutiny, Safegard Systems is redefining the approach to smoke and fire containment in buildings. Respected Operating out of Wicklow, Ireland, since 1994, Safegard Systems has carved out a respected niche in the HVAC industry, focusing on advanced smoke and fire damper control solutions tailored to complex ducted ventilation systems. Today, the company is making headlines with its latest upgrade to the widely used V5 intelligent damper control system, a project undertaken in collaboration with consulting engineers, contractors, and as part of the Swegon Group. This fifthgeneration system delivers unparalleled flexibility, safety and cost-efficiency. Attuned Safegard Systems has always been attuned to the evolving needs of building owners, facilities managers and emergency services for precise, reliable and easy-to-maintain fire and smoke control systems. The enhanced V5 system exemplifies this commitment by addressing critical shortcomings in fire alarm-controlled dampers, which often lack the strategic control needed in a real emergency. While many basic systems default to shutting every damper in a building, the V5 empowers users with tailored control over individual dampers, allowing for fire compartmentalization, pressurization, and targeted smoke extraction. This precision provides clear escape routes and optimizes conditions for firefighting efforts.
Defining A defining feature of the V5 system is its use of a solid-state embedded computer and two-core network cable, which not only increases reliability and ease of use but also minimizes wiring costs compared to traditional hard-wired systems. Further setting it apart, the V5 integrates seamlessly with open protocol platforms, allowing it to link directly with Building Management Systems (BMS) via Modbus or BACnet. This interoperability provides valuable lifecycle benefits, enabling smoother ongoing maintenance and simplified future upgrades as a building’s needs evolve. The server architecture behind V5’s embedded panel computer, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and pre-loaded software also reduces commissioning time and offers intuitive system diagnostics. Enhanced The enhanced control provided by the V5 system is accompanied by convenient features for regular testing and system health checks, which are essential for ongoing fire safety compliance. Heat and smoke detectors can be integrated into the damper interface, enabling direct or remote damper control. The system also allows automatic
testing schedules and supports compliance with fire safety regulations. As Joe Whyte, National Sales Manager at Safegard Systems, points out, the V5 solution embodies a sophisticated yet user-friendly approach that meets the growing demands in Ireland and beyond for advanced fire and smoke control. Importance Joe Whyte underscores the importance of balancing innovation with reliability in life safety systems: ‘It never makes sense to cut corners when it comes to fire safety,’ he stresses. ‘A purpose-designed system for life safety damper control provides peace of mind, and over the lifecycle of a building,
it also delivers significant savings by reducing maintenance costs and improving system access. ’With the existing V5 system and our programme for continuous development, Safegard has set a new benchmark for fire safety in the HVAC industry, offering a robust, sophisticated, and cost-effective approach that aligns with modern building safety expectations. Leader This latest innovation reaffirms Safegard Systems as a leader dedicated to securing the highest standards of fire protection and risk management.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 41
GREEN BUILDING
Empowering a greener future through skills and innovation ATU launches first fully funded green skills programmes for construction professionals across Northern Ireland and the border counties The construction sector is central to the transition to a low-carbon future, creating growing demand for skills in sustainable construction, digital technologies and resource efficiency.
Programmes To help meet this challenge, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) has launched its first suite of fully funded (free for eligible learners), accredited online programmes through the Green Accelerator Skills Programme (GRASP). GRASP is a €9.8 million PEACEPLUS-funded cross-border initiative, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), that brings together education providers and industry partners from across Ireland and Northern Ireland. The programme aims to equip more than 2,000 learners with the green skills needed to support a more sustainable, productive and lowcarbon built environment. ATU will lead more than €1.1 million of programme activity, developing and delivering accredited qualifications while working closely with employers to ensure training reflects the evolving needs of the construction industry.
Lean A major milestone for the University is the launch of Ireland's first higher education accredited Lean Construction programmes at Yellow Belt and Green Belt level, developed in collaboration with Lean Construction Ireland (LCi). These pioneering Lean training programmes combine internationally recognised Lean principles with higher education accreditation, providing construction professionals with practical skills and knowledge to improve construction productivity, reduce waste, drive continuous improvement and support more sustainable construction practices in the built asset environment. Designed in collaboration with employers, policy experts and education providers, GRASP courses provide practical, industry-relevant learning that participants can apply
4 2 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
immediately in the workplace.
Flexibly All programmes are delivered online, enabling learners to study flexibly from home or work while balancing their professional and personal commitments, without the need for regular travel to campus. Applications were this summer opened for ATU's first fully funded (free for eligible learners) GRASP programmes, commencing in September 2026: • Certificate in Digital Construction Technology (ROI Level 7 / NI Level 5) • Certificate in Lean Construction – Yellow Belt (ROI Level 7 / NI Level 5) • Certificate in Lean Construction – Green Belt (ROI Level 7 / NI Level 5) • Certificate in Circular Economy Principles for the Built Environment (ROI Level 9 / NI Level 7) The programmes are available to eligible learners aged 16 years and over who live in, or work for an employer based in, Northern Ireland or the
border counties of Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth.
Opportunities In addition to ATU's programmes, GRASP will continue to introduce new training opportunities throughout the project’s lifetime, covering areas including domestic retrofit, renewable energy technologies, digital construction and green skills education. Dr Trevor McSharry, Head of School of the Built Environment at Atlantic Technological University, said: ‘This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for ATU to further strengthen its cross-border connections and create new and exciting offerings to help upskill the current workforce in the region for an evolving sector, where sustainability and productivity are becoming more and more important.’
Vital Fionnuala McKenna, Head of Strategic Development, Construction Futures, Northern Ireland, added: ‘Access to high-quality, accredited training is vital for maintaining a
GREEN BUILDING
skilled and competitive construction workforce. Initiatives such as GRASP provide an excellent opportunity for employers and employees to develop the green skills needed to support innovation, productivity and the transition to a more sustainable built environment.’ Richard Fitzpatrick, Chair of Lean Construction Ireland, said: ‘Lean Construction Ireland (LCi) is proud to have collaborated with Atlantic Technological University in the development of Ireland's first higher education accredited Lean Construction Yellow Belt and Green Belt training programmes. ‘By combining internationally recognised Lean principles with academic accreditation, these programmes provide construction professionals with practical skills and knowledge that will help improve construction productivity, reduce waste and support the transition to a more sustainable construction sector.
‘Through GRASP, we are delighted that these programmes will now be accessible to eligible learners across Northern Ireland and the border region, helping to build the capability needed for the industry's future.’
Pivotal Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive CITB NI - Construction Industry Training Board, Northern Ireland, said: ‘The construction industry is a pivotal sector in the drive to a low carbon future. To deliver this we must upskill our existing and future workforce at all levels. ‘The GRASP programme is a key element in achieving this, supporting our industry, and providing access to flexible, no cost, training that will improve our awareness and understanding of the impact our work has on delivering a low-carbon environment. ‘Small individual changes in our delivery methods and practices can have a large impact if we can
encourage everyone to make them. ‘That is why these courses, freely available to the industry and delivered in a manner that suits our working practices, are so important.’
Unique Whether you're looking to upskill, future-proof your business, develop your workforce or gain a recognised qualification, GRASP provides a unique opportunity to access flexible, accredited learning that is fully funded for eligible participants, is the message. ‘By investing in today's green skills, learners will be better equipped to support the construction sector's transition to a more sustainable and resilient future.’ Find out more about ATU's courses and apply: www.atu.ie/grasp To learn more about the wider GRASP programme, including all courses and training providers across the partnership, visit www.graspproject.com.
Timber in Construction steering group’s final report The Irish Green Building Council welcomed the publication of the interdepartmental and industry Timber in Construction Steering Group’s final report, marking a significant milestone in Ireland’s transition to a low carbon built environment.
Actions The report outlines a series of priority actions designed to accelerate the safe, scalable adoption of timber in construction across Ireland, including: •
•
•
•
•
National Timber Specification – Development of a National Specification for Mass Engineered Timber to provide clarity and consistency for designers, builders and regulators, and the launch of an interim centralised procurement framework for specialist advisors to support Building Regulations compliance and early stage engagement with building control and fire officers. Government leadership – A commitment for public bodies to assess timber as a primary structural material at design stage for all projects, and to implement timber solutions where viable. Embodied carbon targets – Introduction of Whole Life Carbon Assessments within design and procurement, with progressively tightened embodied carbon thresholds across public projects ahead of forthcoming EU requirements. Knowledge & Innovation Facility – Support for establishing a national hub for innovation, training, industry–academia collaboration, and market development for Ireland’s timber sector. Education & skills development – Integration of timber as a core component of architectural and engineering education, complemented by CPD pathways for construction professionals.
•
Incentives for early adoption – Targeted grants or tax measures to stimulate the uptake of Mass Engineered Timber in the Irish market.
Reacting to the launch, Pat Barry, CEO of the IGBC, said: ‘The publication of these recommendations is an extremely positive first step in supporting the wider uptake of mass timber in developments across Ireland. ‘We now need urgent investment in the delivery of these actions — particularly in the acceleration of the development of the National Technical Specification for Mass Engineered Timber.’
Support These recommendations directly support one of the three priority actions identified in Building a Zero Carbon Ireland – A Roadmap to Decarbonise Ireland’s Built Environment (2023): transitioning to lower embodied carbon materials, alongside prioritising reuse of existing buildings and leaner, more resource efficient design.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 43
GREEN BUILDING
Irish Green Building Council unveils new website to better support sustainable construction in Ireland The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) has launched a new website to serve as a resource centre for sustainable building information and best practices across Ireland's built environment sector.
Grow The updated platform arrives at a time when interest in lowcarbon construction, sustainability compliance, and environmental performance continues to grow. With developers, architects, engineers, and contractors facing increasing expectations around sustainable design and construction, the IGBC website has been created to provide easier access to trusted industry knowledge.
Easier navigation through topicbased content A key feature of the redesign is that content is organised by thematic areas rather than by individual content types. Previously, publications, news articles, case studies, guidance documents and event information were located in separate sections. The new platform brings these resources together according to specific sustainability themes, which are: • Circularity • Carbon Emissions • Health and Wellbeing • Climate Adaptation and Resilience • Biodiversity This approach allows visitors to explore a topic more comprehensively. For example, someone researching ‘whole life carbon’ can quickly view related guidance, industry updates, project examples, and upcoming
events without navigating multiple sections of the website.
AI-powered search tool delivers targeted answers A standout feature of the new website is the integration of an AI assistant designed to answer user questions directly. Unlike general AI assistants, this tool draws exclusively from IGBC’s own content, meaning answers are grounded in material the organisation has published itself. For industry professionals, this offers a quick way to get accurate, sectorspecific answers regarding IGBC works without having to scan multiple documents. For companies interested in IGBC membership, events, or specific initiatives such as the Home Performance Index (HPI), Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), or the CO₂ Performance Ladder, the AI assistant provides a quick and easy way to access relevant information and connect with the appropriate contact for further support.
Simple The process is simple: users can enter their question either in the chat box located in the bottom-left corner of the screen or directly in the search bar. When using the search bar, simply select Assistant before entering your query to receive an AI-generated response. To get the most from the AI Assistant, users should enter a question rather than a single word or phrase, enabling the tool to provide more accurate and tailored responses. Those who prefer conventional website navigation can continue to use the Classic Search feature, which remains the default search setting. Simply enter keywords such as embodied carbon or building reuse to locate relevant resources.
Member dashboard adds personalised features Registered IGBC members can also take advantage of a dedicated 4 4 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
Renovate Europe Day 2026: Renovation and Regeneration at Scale 5 November 2026 | Dublin & Online
Join policymakers, industry leaders and renovation experts at Tom Johnson House to explore how we can deliver affordable, high-quality buildings through large-scale renovation and regeneration.
Opportunities The programme includes expert speakers, networking opportunities and visits to renovation projects. More information and registration: https://www.igbc.ie/event/renovateeurope-day-2026-prioritisepeopleacceleraterenovation/ dashboard within the new platform. The personalised space enables members to: Save resources for future reference • • Update and manage profile information • Select and modify areas of interest These features provide a more tailored experience, helping members focus on the topics and resources most relevant to their work.
Strengthening access to sustainability knowledge The launch of the redesigned website represents a step in expanding access to sustainability expertise across the construction industry. Bringing together guidance, research, industry developments, and practical resources in a single location aims to support both newcomers to green building and more experienced sustainability professionals. As environmental regulations continue to evolve and demand for sustainable construction increases, accessible and reliable information is becoming increasingly important. The IGBC hopes to help industry stakeholders make more informed decisions, encourage consistent application of sustainability principles, and support the transition to a more sustainable built environment. https://www.igbc.ie/
SPOTLIGHT ON O’REILLY OAKSTOWN
Wastewater treatment:
Engineering solutions that work in the real world Complex wastewater projects bring together process design, civil and structural engineering, precast infrastructure, treatment technology, installation and commissioning. For the finished system to perform as intended, each of those elements needs to work together. That is particularly important across food production, dairy, brewing, manufacturing and agriculture, where wastewater volumes and organic loads can change significantly as production changes. The treatment system needs to cope with those variations while continuing to meet environmental requirements and operate reliably.
There is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. O’Reilly Oakstown approaches wastewater projects by first understanding how the site operates, what the wastewater characteristics are and what the client needs the system to achieve to meet discharge license requirements. From there, the treatment process and supporting infrastructure can be engineered around the requirements of the individual project. As the environmental division of The O’Reilly Group, Oakstown combines specialist wastewater expertise with engineering, precast manufacturing, installation, commissioning and ongoing support. The approach is straightforward: understand the challenge first, then engineer the right solution.
Bringing the project together One of the main challenges on a wastewater project is coordinating the different elements involved. Process design, structural design, tanks, treatment equipment, installation and commissioning all need to work together. Where those elements are managed independently, the number of interfaces between different contractors and suppliers can quickly add complexity to a project. O’Reilly Oakstown manages the core
stages through a single team, while bringing in trusted specialist partners where particular technologies or expertise are required. That allows the treatment process, concrete infrastructure and installation requirements to be considered together rather than as separate elements. The company’s precast manufacturing capability plays an important role in that approach. Bespoke concrete tanks and structures can be manufactured around the requirements of the site and the treatment process, providing robust infrastructure designed for long-term service. For larger or more complex projects, that level of coordination can be particularly valuable. The aim is not simply to supply individual components. It is to deliver a complete wastewater solution in which each element has been
designed to work as part of the overall system.
Engineering around the operation No two wastewater projects begin with exactly the same problem. For an industrial facility, wastewater characteristics can change considerably during the production day. Cleaning cycles may cause sudden increases in flow or organic loading, while an increase in production can place additional pressure on a treatment plant that previously had sufficient capacity. The first stage is therefore understanding what is actually happening within the operation. O’Reilly Oakstown combines site assessment, laboratory analysis and engineering expertise to identify where pressures are occurring and what changes are required.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 45
SPOTLIGHT ON O’REILLY OAKSTOWN
In some cases, an existing treatment plant can be optimised. In others, additional treatment technology or infrastructure may be required. Where the existing system can no longer meet the needs of the operation, a new treatment solution may be the most practical approach. The important point is that the treatment system is engineered around the site rather than forcing the operation to work around a standard product. A recent project for a food production facility in the North East demonstrates that approach. As production increased, the facility needed to upgrade its wastewater treatment system. One of the key challenges was the variability in organic loading, which meant the new plant needed to provide reliable treatment under changing operating conditions. O’Reilly Oakstown developed a bespoke Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor system incorporating Bioflo+ biomedia. The project also included a 140m³ precast storage tank and a pressurised drip irrigation area. Rather than simply increasing treatment capacity, the design considered how the wastewater was being generated, how the facility operated and how the treatment infrastructure needed to respond. That same approach is applied across Oakstown’s industrial projects, including food and beverage, dairy, breweries and distilleries, meat processing, pharmaceutical and manufacturing facilities, hospitality and large residential developments.
Precast as part of the solution Wastewater treatment is often discussed in terms of pumps, aeration, membranes and biological processes. The concrete infrastructure housing and supporting those systems is equally important. Tank capacity, layout and configuration need to match the treatment process, while the structures themselves need to provide reliable long-term service. Being part of The O’Reilly Group gives Oakstown access to established precast manufacturing and engineering capabilities, allowing bespoke tanks and structures to be developed alongside the treatment design. That integration means the physical infrastructure is considered as part of the process solution from the beginning of the project. It also allows design, manufacturing
and installation requirements to be coordinated before the system reaches site. The result is a more joined-up approach to delivering the overall treatment plant.
Practical solutions for agriculture Agriculture presents a different set of wastewater and effluent challenges. Slurry management, storage, odour control and biological treatment all need to be considered, with the appropriate solution depending on the site, the characteristics of the waste stream and the required outcome. O’Reilly Oakstown works with a range of biological treatment methods, including both bioaugmentation and biostimulation, alongside precast storage and treatment infrastructure. At a major agricultural facility in N.Ireland, Oakstown was involved with a significant investment in a new wastewater treatment plant. The project included four precast tanks supplied by O’Reilly Oakstown, housing membrane bioreactor cartridge filters (MBR) as part of a WWTS. The treatment process combines biological treatment with membrane filtration and was designed to meet the requirements of a large-scale agricultural operation. Once again, the project demonstrates the importance of integrating the concrete infrastructure with the treatment technology it supports.
Performance beyond commissioning Successful commissioning is not the end of a wastewater project. Treatment systems operate continuously and need to respond to changing flows, loads and operating conditions. Regular servicing, monitoring and laboratory analysis can identify changes in system performance before they develop into more significant issues. O’Reilly Oakstown provides ongoing support following installation, including scheduled servicing, priority call-outs, system monitoring, laboratory analysis and treatment products such as chemicals, polymers and biological boosters.
Keeping that support connected to the original project team has a practical advantage. The people maintaining and monitoring the system already understand how it was designed, how it was installed and how it is intended to operate. For clients, this provides continuity from initial assessment through design and construction to the longterm operation of the plant.
Built around the challenge O’Reilly Oakstown’s wastewater capability is supported by the wider resources of The O’Reilly Group, which dates back to 1939 and today employs more than 520 people across eight strategic locations. Alongside wastewater treatment, Oakstown also supplies associated water-management infrastructure, including pump stations, firefighting tanks, attenuation tanks and oil-water separators. For wastewater systems of significant size and complexity, the company also offers a performance guarantee, providing an additional level of assurance for clients investing in critical environmental infrastructure. Ultimately, successful wastewater treatment is about more than tanks, pumps or individual technologies. It is about understanding how a site operates, engineering the treatment process and infrastructure around those requirements, coordinating the different elements properly and remaining involved once the system is operational. For O’Reilly Oakstown, that means starting with the challenge rather than a standard product. Understand the site. Engineer the solution. Deliver it properly. Then stay involved.
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 47
Build Your Future With
60 Y E AR S
P OWERE D B Y P E OP L E E u r o pe’ s mo st ad v an c e d p ro je c ts B u il d a c a r ee r - n o t j us t a j o b In t er n at i o n al op p o rt u n it ie s
S CA N T O E X PL ORE CA R E E R S A T D OR NAN
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SPOTLIGHT ON DORNAN
Powering Europe’s digital future: Dornan’s expanding role in data centre delivery Europe’s data centre market is entering a new phase of expansion. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing and the continued digitisation of business are driving demand for facilities that are larger, more power-intensive and technically complex. For engineering and construction specialists, the opportunity is significant but so is the challenge of delivering mission-critical infrastructure at speed, across multiple jurisdictions.
Centre Dornan is increasingly positioned at the centre of this growth. Data centres now account for approximately 60% of the company’s business, supported by major projects across the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark. Its UK revenues alone grew from around €40 million following the pandemic to approximately €400 million, reflecting the rapid acceleration of investment in digital infrastructure.
Major The latest evidence of Dornan’s expanding European role is a major new data centre for NTT Global Data Centers in Berlin. The contract, valued at several hundred million euros, will be delivered by an integrated team from HOCHTIEF Infrastructure and
Dornan, a Turner Company subsidiary. The three-storey facility will provide 36MW of capacity, alongside a fourstorey office building. Construction began in June 2026, with the first data halls scheduled for handover in 2028 and full completion targeted for 2029.
Specialist Dornan will bring specialist mechanical and electrical expertise to the project, including the delivery of advanced engineering, safety and management systems. The collaboration demonstrates how the Turner and wider ACS group structure is creating new routes into European markets by combining local construction knowledge with specialist data centre capability. It also reflects Dornan’s longstanding strategy of following its clients into new regions.
Repeat business Around 90% of company revenue comes from repeat business, providing a strong foundation for expansion while enabling established project
teams, delivery systems and technical knowledge to be transferred between markets. That model is being reinforced by investment in offsite engineering and manufacturing. Data centres contain extensive repeatable mechanical and electrical systems, making them particularly suited to modularisation and prefabrication. By producing assemblies in controlled environments, project teams can improve quality, reduce site congestion and support faster installation programmes.
Record year Dornan has described 2025 as record year and highlighted growing collaboration with Turner and the wider ACS group in Spain, the UK and Germany. The company is also strengthening European compliance processes, subcontractor management and common project standards to support continued growth. The surge is about more than buildings. It requires engineers, project managers, skilled trades, digital specialists and supply-chain partners capable of operating in an increasingly demanding environment.
Preparing
Ground breaking ceremony on a major data centre development in Ireland. As General Contractor, Dornan is delivering the full civil, structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical scope, with a continued focus on safe, sustainable and collaborative delivery.
Dornan’s attendance at Datacloud Global Congress 2026, alongside its expansion of direct trades and labour recruitment, signals a business preparing for that next wave. As Dornan marks 60 years in business, data centre construction is becoming one of the defining chapters in its history: a market where engineering depth, repeat relationships and international collaboration are aligning at exactly the right time. Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 49
A A B B EE TT TT EE R R W WA A YY A B E T T E R W A Y ONE PARTNER PARTNER -- TURNKEY TURNKEY SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS ONE ONE PARTNER - TURNKEY SOLUTIONS We deliver deliver complete complete turnkey turnkey installation installation and heavy heavy lift solutions, solutions, combining combining bespoke bespoke engineering, engineering, We We deliver complete turnkey installationand and heavy lift lift solutions, combining bespoke engineering, certified rigging, rigging, and and full full safety safety management management under aa single single accountable accountable contractor. contractor. From From initial initial concept concept certified certified rigging, and full safety managementunder under a single accountable contractor. From initial concept to final final commissioning, commissioning, we we turn turn site site risks risks into into controlled controlled execution execution to to deliver deliver your your full full turnkey turnkey solution. solution. to to final commissioning, we turn site risks into controlled execution to deliver your full turnkey solution.
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUTTIMER ENGINEERING
Buttimer Engineering – one partner, turnkey delivery projects Transforming risk into engineered execution In modern industrial facilities, executing heavy turnkey installation projects is rarely straightforward. Spatial constraints, floor-loading boundaries, and ongoing live operations leave zero margin for error. When project managers divide project execution across separate fabrication, lifting, and mechanical contractors, interface friction expands dramatically. Misalignment between disciplines frequently manifests as unplanned downtime, safety violations, and costly schedule slippages.
(SPMTs), or controlled vertical transfers, engineered planning ensures components move through tight structural footprints safely and without disrupting core facility uptime.
The integrated single-contractor advantage
Success Whether positioning pressure vessels, erecting chimney stacks, or integrating bespoke bulk handling equipment into live environments, success relies entirely on bridging advanced mechanical engineering and expertise with rigorous site control. Mitigating these exposures requires moving away from fragmented procurement models. Industrial operators increasingly demand integrated turnkey delivery: a single, accountable engineering partner managing complete project execution from initial design to final operational hand-over. Founded in 1978, Buttimer Engineering has established an international footprint delivering bespoke engineering, highprecision steel fabrication, and dry and liquid bulk material handling systems across the food & beverage, port infrastructure, process & manufacturing, pharmaceutical, data centre and power generation sectors. By integrating advanced design engineering with site execution, we convert complex installation challenges into predictable operational routines.
Engineering control in constrained environments Executing heavy lifts inside active industrial sites presents a multi-layered operational challenge. Limited clearance, strict floorloading capacities, and surrounding live processes leave no room for trial and error and mandate exact planning long before assets arrive on site.
When a single partner manages both the fabrication of equipment and its site integration, potential conflicts are resolved during the design phase. Dedicated in-house Appointed Persons and Lift Supervisors design fully engineered lift plans and Risk Assessment and Method Statements (RAMS) tailored specifically to the site's physical constraints. Whether employing multi-crane tandem lifts, specialised mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), self-propelled modular transporters
Managing separate sub-contractors for rigging, heavy haulage, temporary works, and MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation) integration generates communication gaps and blurred lines of accountability. Buttimer Engineering resolves these pain points by acting as a single accountable contractor, providing a streamlined model that significantly reduces interface risks and delivers total project certainty. Our turnkey execution strategy encompasses the complete lifecycle of heavy industrial installation: • Direct supply and coordination of heavy cranage, Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), and certified lifting gear. • Precision positioning of bespoke fabrications and standard components into tight operational footprints. • Installation of certified temporary lifting points and structural support systems tailored to site conditions. • Seamless coordination across mechanical, electrical, and structural disciplines, following through to pre-commissioning and final operational verification. Modern heavy-duty engineering demands absolute control over schedule, safety and operational continuity.
Transform By unifying design expertise, precision fabrication, heavy lift and full commissioning under one accountable partner, we transform complex mechanical lifts and installation projects from unpredictable site risks into controlled engineering exercises, handing over fully compliant, operational assets built for long-term performance. buttimer.com
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DELIVER A ROOF THAT MAKES A STATEMENT START YOUR PROJECT +353 (0)42 9692 333 bauder.ie
5 2 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
BauderSOLAR G LIGHT Combine the technologies of Solar PV, for renewable energy generation, and a biodiverse green roof to deliver a sustainable building.
Project: Noah’s Ark Architect: Squire & Partners Photo credit: Bridgman & Bridgman LLP
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
BauderECO FF: The Environmentally Responsible PIR Procurement Choice Lewisham Park Towers in the UK is a pioneering flat roof refurbishment project that highlights the carbonreduction benefits of BauderECO FF insulation, a finalist at the Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) Awards 2025 in the Construction Product Innovation category. Part-funded by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF), the project achieved carbon savings of almost eleven tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e), reflecting Bauder’s commitment to energyefficient and sustainability-focused flat roofing solutions. The roof refurbishment encompassed three high-rise buildings that house 204 residential units.
Addressed It addressed long-standing roof issues such as leaks and poor insulation. At the heart of the project is the installation of BauderECO FF insulation, which helped Bauder client L&Q make considerable carbon savings. The following uses the flat roof refurbishment of Lewisham Park Towers, London, UK, as an example. It will outline what differentiates BauderECO FF from traditional polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation boards, the opportunity it offers organisations to make an environmentally responsible procurement decision and the benefits to be gained from doing so.
BauderECO FF: An innovation in PIR A responsible purchasing decision. At a time when organisations are held increasingly accountable for their greenhouse gas emissions, selecting BauderECO FF over traditional PIR insulation represents a more environmentally focused purchasing decision and a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. Thermally efficient PIR insulation with up to 80% less embodied carbon. BauderECO FF is an innovative rigid thermoset PIR insulation board with lower embodied carbon than any other PIR insulation board available in the UK and Irish markets. Approximately 80% of raw material feedstock used in the production
of BauderECO FF is sourced from processed renewable biomass and renewable inorganic raw materials, replacing derivatives obtained from fossil sources and thereby reducing embodied carbon. The biomass balance approach. This carbon reduction is made possible by Bauder adopting the biomass balance approach in its manufacture of BauderECO FF. The biomass balance approach is a chain of custody model used to track the BauderECO FF PIR insulation adopts the biomass balance total amount of approach in its manufacture. renewable plantbased raw material warmer, more energy-efficient homes. content through a manufacturing In turn, enduring social process/supply chain. Bauder works sustainability outcomes such as with REDcert² to ensure that any reduced heating and cooling costs for claims made about ECO FF are the residents of Lewisham Park Towers accurate, verifiable, and certified. were achieved. Lewisham Park Towers clearly demonstrates how specifying BauderECO FF can significantly reduce Benefits Tom Raftery, Head of Sustainability at project carbon emissions. Bauder, underlines these sustainability and performance benefits, adding: Innovative ‘Lewisham Park Towers is a great As Bradley Green, Head of Delivery at scheme to have been part of. L&Q explains: ‘Partnering with Bauder ‘Through the utilisation of our and their innovative biomass-based BauderECO FF insulation, L&Q have ECO FF insulation, we (reduced) our shown their commitment to reducing carbon and construction impact, the overall carbon impact of this using resources more efficiently and project whilst improving the comfort supporting a transition away from of residents, without compromising on fossil fuels.’ technical standards.’ As a direct result of following Backed by a 25-year guarantee, the Bauder’s advice to incorporate Lewisham Park Towers refurbishment BauderECO FF in the refurbishments at ensures long-term reliability and Lewisham Park Towers, L&Q achieved represents Bauder’s commitment to carbon reductions of 10.96 tCO₂e (the providing environmentally focused approximate carbon emissions of a roofing upgrades. commercial return flight from London For further information on how to Sydney). BauderECO FF can help reduce the In addition, BauderECO FF embodied carbon of your roofing successfully enhanced the buildings’ scheme, visit www.bauder.ie or call thermal performance, creating +353 (42) 9692 333
Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 53
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THE FINAL SAY
‘While you can never totally control your emotions, you can better control how you manage them.’ So says Jeff Haden as we round off this issue – on a positive note, as always!
Science says chronic stress actually changes your personality (and not in a good way) But not if you do a little cognitive reframing whenever you feel stressed. One study shows the majority of people feel stress negatively affects their behaviour, and results in headaches, fatigue, and problems sleeping. Another study shows people who experience persistently moderate or high levels of stressful life events over a number of years have a 50 percent higher mortality rate. Clearly, stress has an impact on your life. And on your personality.
Study According to a study published in Psychology and Aging, the more poorly participants handle daily stressors, the more introverted, unfriendly, and closed off from new experiences they become. Granted, becoming more (or less) extroverted is relatively unimportant, unless you want to be more (or less) outgoing and social. Broadly speaking, introverts are no less happy, or intelligent, or successful than extroverts. (Some people might argue more.)
But being more or less friendly does matter: •
•
•
A Harvard Business Review study found that being likable plays a bigger role than being competent in work relationships; people would ‘rather work with a lovable fool than a competent jerk’. A study published in Accounting, Organizations and Society found that likable people are more likely to get others to go along with their suggestions, even if those suggestions lack supporting evidence. Or as Mark Cuban says, ‘Being nice is one of the most underrated business skills’.
Open Being open to new experiences matters as well. According to a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) that involved millions of participants, openness – your willingness to engage in and explore new experiences, ideas, information, interpersonal relationships, etc. – is the only personality trait with a substantial correlation to intelligence. Openness can make you smarter, and by extension, happier. According to a study published in Psychological
Medicine, levels of happiness are highest in the highest IQ groups and lowest in the lowest IQ groups.
Which leads us back to stress. The less you’re able to deal with daily stress – not major stressors like a major illness or injury, loss of income, changes in relationships, etc., but comparatively little stuff – the less extroverted, agreeable, and open you’ll become over time. As the researchers write: ‘These findings clarify how changes in daily experiences are related to broader personality changes and inform integrative frameworks of personality development across the adult lifespan.’
Impact Or in non-researcher-speak, the more poorly you deal with stress, the more your personality will change, and the greater the impact on your intelligence and happiness. Problem is, better managing daily stressors, like getting more sleep, or freeing up time to do the things you really want to do, features prominently on the list of things that are easier said than done. Unless you do a little cognitive reframing. When something happens that makes you feel nervous, challenged, scared, etc., your body responds. Your heart rate increases. Your breathing might get shallower and faster.
Challenge Your body temperature rises. Those responses are automatic and normal; your body spotted a problem or challenge and Autumn 2026 | Construction Management | 55
THE FINAL SAY Level up Or say you’re concerned you won’t be able to fulfil an order on time. See the fact you’re concerned as a good thing; it means your business has the chance to level up. The same is true for pressure. As tennis legend Billie Jean King likes to say, ‘Pressure is a privilege’. Feeling pressure means you’re in a position to do something meaningful. Something important. Something where the outcome truly matters. When you feel nervous or stressed, when you feel your heart rate rise and your breathing quicken, reframe those feelings.
Eliminate See that feeling as your body rising to a challenge, helping you be more able to step in, or step up, or eliminate a problem or challenge. See stress as a signal that you have the opportunity to make your life better. While you can never totally control your emotions, you can better control how you manage them.
Help Not only will that make the short-term outcome better, it can also help you stay (or become) more friendly and open. And smarter, and happier. All from a little reframing. @jeff_haden said, ‘Let’s go!’. Problem is, your body also vasoconstricts: The muscles inside your blood vessels tighten, making the space inside smaller. Vasoconstriction raises your blood pressure and reduces circulation to your extremities (which is why, when you feel really stressed, your fingers and toes can feel cold). That’s why chronic stress is directly linked to cardiovascular disease. That natural response to a problem or challenge? It’s terrible for you.
Helpful But here’s the thing: A study published in Journal of Experimental Psychology found that when people view their stress response as helpful, seeing their body’s natural response to stress as a sign their body is rising to a challenge, they don’t vasoconstrict. Their blood pressure doesn’t rise. In fact, their physiological profiles looked like what health psychologist Kelly McGonigal describes as what happens in ‘moments of joy and courage’. By thinking about stress differently, by seeing stress as a good thing, they change how their bodies respond, which likely makes them respond more thoughtfully, proactively, and successfully to whatever challenge they face.
Performance You don’t need research to tell you that feeling stressed negatively impacts your professional and personal performance. We all perform better when we feel more confident and self-assured. So what should you do? While research shows simply trying to ignore stress rarely works, reframing stress can. (If you aren’t familiar, cognitive reframing is a psychological technique that consists of identifying and changing the way you view situations, experiences, events, emotions, etc.) Say you’re nervous about an investor pitch. See the fact you feel nervous as a good thing; it means you have the chance to raise capital.
5 6 | Construction Management | Autumn 2026
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