Author: michellecoates

Darkness into Light

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On Friday, May 8th, members of our Southern Region team took part in Darkness into Light in Cork city in aid of Pieta House.

Walking from darkness into the morning light at sunrise, the team experienced the meaning behind the event. As our Regional Director, Ronan McCarthy, mentioned, speaking about mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage those who may be struggling to seek support.

Gathering at our Southern Region office on Carroll’s Quay, the group took in some of our landmark sites in Cork, including Penrose Dock, our ongoing project at Railyard Apartments, The Elysian, 85 South Mall, the historic Bridewell Garda Station, and the current restoration works at Crawford Art Gallery, all while the sun began to light up the city.

In 2025 alone, Darkness into Light fundraising has helped support more than 100,000 helpline calls and texts, 41,000 hours of counselling, and over 6,000 therapy journeys through Pieta’s services.

If you are in a position to contribute, you can donate here.

Exploring Construction at the IDL Plant Expansion: A Visit from CBS Midleton

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Last month, we welcomed 20 students from CBS Midleton to the IDL Plant Expansion Project as part of a four-day Accelerator Programme with See My Skills. The programme supports individuals with neurodivergence and/or physical disabilities in developing essential life and career skills.

During the visit, the students were offered a hands-on introduction to construction and engineering. Our team shared insights into PJ Hegarty’s history and the progress of the Plant Expansion project, including an understanding of environmental, health, and safety practices.

A highlight of the day was the practical demonstrations, where students explored GPS technology, Total Stations, and underground service detection, and had the opportunity to try the equipment themselves.

Thank you to everyone involved in delivering such an engaging and informative experience.

Continued Progress at Cork Airport

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On April 1st, we reached a milestone moment at Cork Airport with the official opening of Gate Post 19. The project included installing a new C3 scanner, a body scanner, and associated security equipment at the Gate Post 19 entrance, along with a full renovation of finishes throughout the area and upgrades to the existing VIP lounge and facilities.

We were pleased to join Cork Airport in welcoming Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer TD, and Department of Transport representatives to mark the occasion.

The visit also included a look ahead at what’s next as part of PJ Hegarty’s work at the airport, with progress underway on the new mezzanine floor, set to see the airport’s upgraded passenger security screening area.

 

Milestone at Railyard Apartments, Cork

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A key milestone was reached on Saturday morning at the Railyard Apartments scheme for JCD Group & Clúid in Cork city centre when we completed the slipform to the main tower core. Specialist contractor Slipform Engineering commenced pouring the lift and stair core on Wednesday, March 18th. Over 1,700m3 of concrete and 225t of reinforcement went into the slipform operations, with the team working 24/7 for 10 days to reach a full height of over 85 meters.

With the completion of this Slipform the scale and ambition of the development is now apparent. A big thank you to everyone who delivered this milestone safely and efficiently. We look forward to sharing further updates as the project progresses.

Working From Heights Talk with Marian Deasy

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We welcomed Marian Deasy to speak to the team on-site at Waterfront South Central. She delivered a powerful talk on working from heights. Marian spoke about the loss of her son, Lorcan, who tragically died in 2018 while working at height, and the lasting effect it has had on her.

Working from heights remains one of the most dangerous aspects of construction. By raising awareness and holding ourselves to the highest safety standards, we can help ensure everyone gets home safely, every day.

 

 

CIF International Women’s Day Event

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On Friday March 9th, we were sponsors of the Construction Industry Federation International Women’s Day Summit.

The event sparked insightful discussions across several important topics, with panel sessions ranging from Digital Adaptation of Innovation to hearing Apprentices’ experiences, along with a keynote address from Marie Gleeson, former Naval Captain, who spoke about the difference strong team support can make.

We were also delighted to see our Head of HR, Jan Glynn take part in the panel discussion ‘The Inclusion Exchange, Why Investing in Others Strengthens us all’, sharing perspectives on the value of investing in people and creating supportive, inclusive workplaces across our industry.

International Women’s Day at PJ Hegarty

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International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise the contributions and achievements of women around the world.

At PJ Hegarty, recognising the women whose expertise and impact strengthen our culture and the industry.

It’s also a moment to reflect on the progress being made across the construction industry for gender equality, while recognising the importance of continuing to create opportunity and representation at every level. We are pleased to once again support International Women’s Day through our sponsorship of this year’s Construction Industry Federation International Women’s Day event taking place tomorrow.

Celebrating Women in Construction with Kate Brady

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As part of the Construction Industry Federation’s Give to Gain campaign, we’re pleased to have Kate Brady representing PJ Hegarty as we mark International Women’s Day and celebrate the voices shaping our industry and communities.

Kate’s journey into construction is rooted in her interest as far back as Transition Year in problem-solving and building something tangible. Today, she thrives on seeing a project come to life and contributing to that process.

Across our sites and teams, capability, collaboration, and commitment continue to define success, not gender. As Kate shares, being a woman in construction means being part of a wider community that drives positive change across the sector.

Railyard Apartments Crane Installation

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A key milestone was reached at the Railyard Apartments scheme for JCD Group & Clúid in Cork city centre. A 104 m tower crane (92.1 m under the hook) has now been erected on site, currently the tallest crane in operation in Ireland. Free-standing at over 100 metres, it now defines the skyline ahead of construction commencing on the 25-storey tower.

It’s the third time we’ve delivered Cork’s tallest crane installation, following projects at Cork County Hall and The Elysian, both of which were the tallest buildings in Ireland at the time of completion. When finished, Railyard Apartments is set to become the tallest residential building in Ireland.

Planning for a crane of this scale began in 2025, with detailed design selection and component configuration, particularly important given the more demanding wind zone conditions in the south-west compared with other parts of the country.

A big thank you to everyone who delivered this milestone safely and efficiently. We look forward to sharing updates as the project progresses.

Supporting Back to Work Connect

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At PJ Hegarty, we welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life. Our partnership with Back to Work Connect helps us welcome professionals from diverse career backgrounds, bringing valuable skills.

Jan Glynn, head of HR, notes that ‘Our partnership with an organisation that supports skilled professionals returning to work allows us to access a diverse and experienced talent pool that may otherwise be overlooked. At the same time, it reflects our commitment to creating inclusive opportunities and supporting individuals to re-enter the workforce with confidence. We look forward to working with Back to Work Connect over the next 12 months.’