Weekly Irish property market news and insights – for the industry, by the industry

Before we get stuck into the general property news of the week, below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest:

• From the strategic to the creative, Property District is Ireland’s leading communications agency for the planning, construction and property sectors. As a full-service communications agency, we specialise in helping your business create a dynamic brand, generate buzz around its projects, products and services, and we help you to attract new customers and team members. Our experienced team includes strategic marketers, PR/publicists, journalists, copywriters and social media experts who know what it takes to make sure your message is heard. We offer customised integrated tactics and creative campaigns, executing them with precision to ensure you stand out from the competition and achieve your goals. Email info@propertydistrict.ie to chat through some strategies for your business.

• National Construction Summit took place this week and it was a massive success, well attended, with super engagement – you can catch up on  the highlights of the day here https://propertydistrict.ie/irelands-national-constriction-conference-2023/

 

• National Land Cover Map: There is a new land cover map for Ireland that maps out different land surface types in great detail. It is available from the National Mapping Division of Tailte Éireann who developed it in partnership with the EPA. With greatly enhanced detail the map is a new benchmark in land evidence for Ireland. It will facilitate significantly improved monitoring and assessment of impacts and benefits for water, climate, air, noise and biodiversity, as well delivering support for better decision making on land management  https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring–assessment/assessment/mapping/national-land-cover-map/

 

• Housing for All: Available Supports for Buyers & Renters – ensuring those who want to own their own home can do so and those who wish to rent can do so at an affordable rate 🔗https://ipropertyradio.com/housing-for-all-available-supports-for-buyers-renters/

 

• Ireland’s housing crisis facts and figures: All you need to know: Regardless of where you stand in the housing market, here is a comprehensive breakdown of the facts and figures  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/23/irelands-housing-crisis-facts-and-figures-all-you-need-to-know/

 

• How do you solve a problem like Ireland’s housing crisis? Housing plan after plan has failed over the past decade, and with the number of homeless now at an all-time high of 11,500, the stakes are getting ever higher  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/03/25/how-do-you-solve-a-problem-like-the-housing-crisis/

 

• Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien in ‘ethics’ row for defying planning regulator and approving site for homes: He is facing a complaint after backing scheme to build 100 residential properties on land in Galway  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/housing-minister-darragh-obrien-in-ethics-row-for-defying-planning-regulator-and-approving-site-for-homes-42404263.html

 

• Ivana Bacik pledges to deliver one million homes over next decade during Labour Party conference address – Bacik promises 1m homes, unlimited bus and rail for €9 a month, new SUV tax, pay rises, guaranteed pre-school places, and universal healthcare https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/ivana-bacik-pledges-to-deliver-one-million-homes-over-next-decade-during-labour-party-conference-address-42403957.html

 

• Are you hoping for class warfare, where the squeezed middle is expected to give away its right to hold property?  https://m.independent.ie/opinion/are-you-hoping-for-class-warfare-where-the-squeezed-middle-is-expected-to-give-away-its-right-to-hold-property-42397243.html

 

• Ministers overruled officials who believed €1bn could be shaved from cost of apartment defects scheme: Documents show strong official resistance to paying back apartment owners who had already remedied legacy issues such as water ingress or fire safety failings  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/20/ministers-overruled-officials-who-believed-1bn-could-be-shaved-from-apartment-defects-scheme/

 

• An Bord Pleanála’s controversial fast-track unit ‘dissolved’: The Department of Housing has granted An Bord Pleanála permission to shut down its Strategic Housing Division https://www.businesspost.ie/article/an-bord-pleanalas-controversial-fast-track-unit-dissolved/

 

• Cabinet agrees to ‘safety net’ for renters from start of April: Green Party politicians voice concerns about ending eviction ban but sources say Cabinet decision will likely allay inter-Coalition tension  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/03/21/cabinet-agrees-to-safety-net-for-renters-from-start-of-april/ Also: Government countermotion on eviction ban aimed at securing Independent backing: Text includes several measures raised by members of Regional Independent Group  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2023/03/21/government-counter-motion-on-eviction-ban-aimed-at-securing-independent-backing/

 

• Eviction ban latest: ‘This is no longer just a rental housing “crisis” – it’s a full-blown emergency’: Irish estate and letting agents are predicting a tsunami of termination notices as landlords sell up  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/eviction-ban-latest-this-is-no-longer-just-a-rental-housing-crisis-its-a-full-blown-emergency-42404255.html Also: Government could be facing its own eviction soon if it’s not careful https://m.independent.ie/opinion/comment/government-could-be-facing-its-own-eviction-soon-if-its-not-careful-42404260.html

 

• Voters deeply divided over end of eviction ban: The latest Business Post/Red C poll shows 46 per cent of voters opposed to ending the ban on March 31, but 50 per cent in favour of tax breaks for landlords designed to encourage them to stay in the market  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/hitting-close-to-home-voters-deeply-divided-over-end-of-eviction-ban/

 

• Measures to allow social welfare recipients to earn up to €14k a year in rent being extended: Under the measures, social welfare payments are not impacted for earning rental income under €14,000.  https://www.thejournal.ie/social-welfare-recipients-rent-a-room-6025462-Mar2023/

 

• Plans to free up 12,000 properties for long-term rental in disarray as new Airbnb register delayed by EU: Cabinet initially hoped to have laws underpinning short-term letting register enacted by the end of March, but EU move has delayed them until the end of December https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/plans-to-free-up-12000-properties-for-long-term-rental-in-disarray-as-new-airbnb-register-delayed-by-eu-42400326.html

 

• Nursing home residents to keep all the income from renting out their property in major Fair Deal revamp  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/nursing-home-residents-to-keep-all-the-income-from-renting-out-their-property-in-major-fair-deal-revamp-42398822.html

 

• Almost 1,000 apply for Land Development Agency cost-rental homes – First LDA homes in the capital have rents set at almost 60 per cent below market rates  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/21/almost-1000-apply-for-land-development-agency-cost-rental-homes/

 

• Minister O’Brien Announces Appointment of the Board of Tailte Éireann  https://tailte.ie/news/minister-obrien-announces-appointment-of-the-board-of-tailte-eireann/

 

• Why the language we use to buy and sell homes is outdated  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/why-the-language-we-use-to-buy-and-sell-homes-is-outdated-j3qdtnwlr

 

• 25 Best Architecture Firms in Ireland: From Cork to Dublin to Galway to Sligo, these architecture firms are leading the way in Ireland and beyond.  https://architizer.com/blog/inspiration/collections/best-architecture-firms-in-ireland/

• Builder beat client with a pipe in row over home renovations  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/builder-beat-client-with-a-pipe-in-row-over-home-renovations-42398937.html

 

• Although wealthy, Ireland feels completely different from most other wealthy countries – It all comes down to a mismatch between supply and demand. In economic language, Ireland appears to be stuck in a permanent state of fragile equilibrium  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/03/25/david-mcwilliams-irish-people-are-rich-and-poor-at-the-same-time/

 

• Timber-framed homes could save ‘millions of tonnes of CO2’  https://www.agriland.ie/farming-news/timber-framed-homes-could-save-millions-of-tonnes-of-co2-ibec/

 

• Multinational reliance sees Ireland’s GDP climb 130% above EU average: New figures confirm that large multinationals have once again helped drive a huge expansion of the Irish economy in 2022  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41100136.html

 

• This architect has identified the qualities office buildings need for converting to residential  https://archinect.com/news/article/150343200/this-architect-has-identified-the-qualities-office-buildings-need-for-converting-to-residential

 

• Eirmersive: Onward #3 – Immersive Technologies for Civic Engagement: Exploring the opportunities and challenges around Immersive Technologies for Civic Engagement: Register👉https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/onward-3-immersive-technologies-for-civic-engagement-tickets-582247978377

 

If you missed last week’s round-up, you can catch up here: https://propertydistrict.ie/sunday-roundup/

As always, you might let me know if I have missed out on any relevant property news by emailing  carol@propertydistrict.ie.

(Apologies in advance for any typos, it’s difficult to get good help on a Sunday. Also, I use voice to text dictation so just sound out anything that really doesn’t make sense in a strong rural accent and that should help!)

 

SUNDAY LISTEN

We are excited to share the growth of iPropertyRadio! What started as #PropertyMatters, a 60-minute weekly show on Dublin South FM 93.9FM over 4 years ago, has now evolved into a global online station for the best construction, urban planning, property and proptech content. Check out our website, iPropertyRadio.com, brought to you by Hear Me Roar Media for live and recorded access to all the week’s built environment news.

Want to have your industry podcast included or be a guest on our shows? Reach out to us at hello@ipropertyradio.com. Last year, we hit a massive 7.5 million digital impressions across our brands and this figure is growing – Q4 2022/Q1 2023 we now have an  average of 765,876 digital impressions each month, not including radio listenership and website visits. Huge thanks to all of you for your continued support!

This week on iPropertyRadio…

 

*How to prepare your home for a sale*

This week on ‘Property Matters’ on iPropertyRadio, host Carol Tallon is joined by Lorraine Scully, Real Estate Agent & Associate Director at Sherry FitzGerald Galway, to discuss their recent win – Sherry FitzGerald Branch of the Year 2023 Award! Lorraine gives some insiders tips and tricks for how to prepare yourself andyour home for the sales market, for example, picking the right sales agent for you, looking at marketing options and maximising the value of your property.

*Development land and commercial property opportunities*

This week on ‘Property Matters’ on iPropertyRadio, we hear from Robert Colleran, Owner of Robert Colleran Property Consultants LTD to discuss development land opportunities across Ireland, construction costs and vacant commercial properties. Robert also speaks on possible policy changes over the next 12 months.

Produced by Hear Me Roar Media https://hearmeroarmedia.com

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/property-matters/

*iPropertyRadio is part of Ireland’s Property District: https://propertydistrict.ie

 

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

 

• How to engage the community in placemaking in 2023 | PLACEengage  https://placeengage.com/how-to-engage-the-community-in-placemaking-in-2023/

 

• The Housing Commission has launched a public consultation seeking views on the housing system in Ireland.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41098135.html

 

• Clerys developer calls on Government to provide funding for transformation of O’Connell Street in Dublin: The iconic building will reopen this year, with a recruitment drive to start soon  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/clerys-developer-calls-on-government-to-provide-funding-for-transformation-of-oconnell-street-in-dublin-42394572.html

 

• Seán Moncrieff: House-hunting in Dublin is like The Hunger Games. Many have simply given up  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2023/03/25/sean-moncrieff-house-hunting-in-dublin-is-like-the-hunger-games-many-have-simply-given-up/

 

• De Valera’s former Cork school converted into apartments by charity: Centenary House, as the new scheme will now be known, will soon be fully occupied after renovations by the Peter McVerry Trust.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41100667.html

 

• Two Bealnamulla housing estates to be taken over by council  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/03/22/two-bealnamulla-housing-estates-to-be-taken-over-by-council/

 

• Safety fears abound over Aran Island’s top attraction  https://connachttribune.ie/safety-fears-abound-over-aran-islands-top-attraction/

 

• Public consultation event this week on proposed Lough Ree Greenway  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/03/20/public-consultation-event-this-week-on-proposed-lough-ree-greenway/

 

• Public consultation starts on Cleeves Quarter masterplan  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/03/19/public-consultation-starts-on-cleeves-quarter-masterplan/

 

• Limerick is a top ranked European city of the future  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/03/23/limerick-is-a-top-ranked-european-city-of-the-future/

 

• Campaign for Greenway along Limerick to Foynes rail line  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/03/23/campaign-for-greenway-along-limerick-to-foynes-rail-line/

 

• Our favourite Limerick news story of the week! ‘John Deere tractor worth €100,000 has been won by a dog’ – The golden ticket was in the name of Toby, a dog owned by Patsy Dalton from Galbally. While Toby does have a licence, it doesn’t appear to cover driving, so Patsy will have to sit in behind the wheel when the tractor arrives https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/dog-wins-tractor-worth-e100k-in-laois-draw-1452586.html

 

• There’s a huge farmers market coming to Kilkenny next month  https://lovin.ie/counties/farmers-market-kilkenny

 

• Green TD for Wicklow Steven Matthews last week helped launch a report on derelict and vacant properties, the actions of which would return hundreds of properties in Wicklow back to housing stock  https://wicklownews.net/2023/03/matthews-launches-action-on-vacant-and-derelict-properties-in-wicklow/

 

• Bray Central to launch new monthly markets  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/lifestyle/bray-central-to-launch-new-monthly-markets-42398315.html

 

• Wicklow farmer Pat Dunne: Some walkers are ‘arrogant’ now, and I am ‘fearful’: ‘We’ve found our sheep ripped apart after dog attacks,’ says the landowner assaulted on the ‘Zig Zags’ trail last week https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2023/03/25/weve-found-our-sheep-ripped-apart-or-dead-in-bog-holes-after-dog-attacks/

 

• Public consultation now open for Carrignagat to Collooney Active Travel Project  https://www.oceanfm.ie/2023/03/21/public-consultation-now-open-for-carrignagat-to-collooney-active-travel-project/

 

• Public consultation on flooding issues in Mayo town  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/03/23/public-consultation-on-flooding-issues-in-mayo-town/

 

• Enterprise Ireland chief committed to Mayo airport site investment  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/03/25/enterprise-ireland-chief-committed-to-mayo-airport-site-investment/

 

• Marvel at the beautiful West Coast and Wild Atlantic Way: Jo Kerrigan enjoys a walk through Ireland’s history and the spectacular scenery of its western seaboard.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/travel/arid-41098474.html

 

• 7 Reasons Why You’ll Fall In Love With Charming Kinsale, Ireland https://www.travelawaits.com/2869676/things-to-do-kinsale-ireland/

 

• South Kilkenny residents protest against plan for 18-metre mast in village  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/story-telling/south-kilkenny/1062523/pictures-south-kilkenny-residents-protest-against-plan-for-18-metre-mast-in-village.html

 

• Public consultation in Laois on €2 mill revamp of old village Courthouse: Welcome for funding for former courthouse in Laois town of Borris in Ossory  https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/local-news/1069746/public-consultation-in-laois-on-2-mill-revamp-of-old-village-courthouse.html

 

• Western People — Incredible video footage emerges of 1950s Mayo | Western People https://westernpeople.ie/2023/03/25/incredible-colour-video-footage-of-1950s-mayo/

 

• Meet the new Blasket Island caretakers – ‘it honestly still feels like a dream!’ https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/meet-the-new-blasket-island-caretakers-it-honestly-still-feels-like-a-dream-42398151.html

 

• Calls for An Bord Pleanála to provide timeframe for decision on North Kerry LNG project  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/calls-for-an-bord-pleanala-to-provide-timeframe-for-decision-on-north-kerry-lng-project-323252

 

• Event is being held looking at the potential for community-led affordable housing in the South Kerry gaeltacht. It’ll feature an exhibition and public workshops, as well as focusing on a Housing Needs Assessment being completed for Gaeltacht Uíbh Ráthaigh https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/call-for-kerry-people-to-join-ballinskelligs-housing-workshop-323479

 

• €600k outdoor dining venue officially opens in Killarney  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/600k-outdoor-dining-venue-officially-opens-in-killarney-42399841.html

 

• Defective Concrete Block community facilitators now available  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2023/03/20/defective-concrete-block-community-facilitators-now-available-1/

 

• Stunning Aurora display over Donegal this week!  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2023/03/24/pictures-stunning-aurora-display-over-donegal-last-night/

 

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

• Developers of ‘frozen’ sites to be exempt from residential zoned land tax: Owners of land phased for future housing development will not be liable for the Department of Housing’s new 3 per cent tax  https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/developers-of-frozen-sites-to-be-exempt-from-residential-zoned-land-tax/

 

• Last month the UK government published a landmark agreement which – if ratified – will ease the movement of goods between Northern Ireland and the British mainland. But what will the deal mean for builders either side of the Irish Sea?  https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/government/what-does-the-windsor-agreement-mean-for-construction-in-northern-ireland-20-03-2023/

 

• Challenge to Cork apartment plan referred to European courts: Four questions were referred to the Court of Justice of the European Union regarding a developer’s obligations under EU environmental law to survey for potentially affected species  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41101234.html

 

• Denis O’Brien’s Jepview secures planning permission for additional two floors at Grand Canal office blocks – Dublin City Council had already given the green light to 15 storey and 8 storey office blocks  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/20/denis-obriens-jepview-secures-planning-permission-for-additional-two-floors-at-grand-canal-office-blocks/

 

• Killing kitsch with blandness: planned ‘rejuvenation’ of St Stephen’s Green shopping centre is anything but – The controversial facade of the shopping centre on St Stephen’s Green is set to disappear, but will its replacement improve Dublin’s visual fabric or does the city need yet more offices?  https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/2023/03/25/killing-kitsch-with-blandness-planned-rejuvenation-of-st-stephens-green-shopping-centre-is-anything-but/

 

• Plans to build new Liffey bridge linking north and south as part of Dublin Port redevelopment  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/plans-to-build-new-liffey-bridge-linking-north-and-south-as-part-of-dublin-port-redevelopment-42396687.html

 

• More than 800 apartments to be built on hospital grounds in Fairview – British property development firm to seek planning permission for scheme costing over €300m earmarked for the grounds of St Vincent’s Hospital Fairview  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/more-than-800-apartments-to-be-built-on-hospital-grounds-in-fairview/

 

• Kingspan billionaire versus the unlikely Nimbys  https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/kingspan-billionaire-versus-the-unlikely-nimbys-multitasking-former-tds-firm-back-in-black/

 

• Dunnes plan to demolish Crumlin shopping centre  https://www.echo.ie/dunnes-plan-to-demolish-crumlin-shopping-centre/

 

• Buyer sought for Swords lands with scope for over 1,000 homes: 62-acre residential site on Rathbeale Road expected to attract offers in the region of €46.5m or €750,000 per acre https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/03/22/buyer-sought-for-swords-lands-with-scope-for-over-1000-homes/

 

• An Bord Pleanála refuses planning permission for over 1,000 north Dublin – apartments: Planning permission for 173 residential units for a site near the Co Meath border was also refused.  https://www.thejournal.ie/an-bord-pleanala-refuses-planning-permission-1180-homes-dublin-6027077-Mar2023/

 

• Balbriggan housing scheme comprising over 800 units gets go-ahead: An Bord Pleanála signs off on residential scheme in north Co Dublin  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/23/lda-gets-go-ahead-for-balbriggan-housing/

 

• Large housebuilders among those seeking tax exemptions on valuable development sites – Companies making submissions to Kildare County Council about unused lands in the Dublin commuter belt  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/20/large-housebuilders-among-those-seeking-tax-exemptions-on-valuable-development-sites/

 

• Plans for glamping project near Kildare town  https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/home/1067287/plans-for-glamping-project-near-kildare-town.html

 

• Cork developer says housing policies working as plans lodged for huge apartment complex: Application for 1,315-apartment scheme in 10 blocks of up to 14 storeys on docklands site could be lodged within eight weeks  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41100508.html

 

• ‘Upside-down’ housing scheme planned for site of former Cork city pub: The bedrooms and bathroom are on the ground floor and the living/kitchen/dining space is on the first floor of the development  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41100070.html

 

• Elements of challenge to permission for Co Cork apartments will go to EU court  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/elements-of-challenge-to-permission-for-co-cork-apartments-will-go-to-eu-court-1452863.html

 

• Planning refused for dozens of apartments at former site of metal company on Cork city’s northside: The site has been vacant for a number of years and, according to a planning statement submitted with the application, was previously used as a scrap metal yard and historically as a tannery  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41099743.html

 

• Almost 100 new homes planned for site in Cork town – They want to construct a mix of two, three, and four bed units  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/almost-100-new-homes-planned-26560389

 

• Plans for new homes on historic site of Ireland’s first Turkish bathhouse rejected by Cork City Council – The decision was made as the plan “does not respect the character of the area and will impact negatively upon a scenic route” https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/new-houses-planned-sensitive-historic-26535917

 

• DIY SOS team scramble to build a home for young Corkman left paralysed – DIY SOS is back on our TV screens tomorrow night (Sunday). Cork man Adam Drummond features on the first episode  https://www.echolive.ie/corklives/arid-41100832.html

 

• Land Development Agency will not start work on Sandy Road site for four years https://connachttribune.ie/land-development-agency-will-not-start-work-on-sandy-road-site-for-four-years/

 

• Plans lodged for almost 40 homes in Oranmore  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/plans-lodged-for-almost-40-homes-in-oranmore/

 

• Planning application to be lodged in May for Community Nursing Unit in Clifden  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/planning-application-to-be-lodged-in-may-for-community-nursing-unit-in-clifden/

 

• Lidl appeals planning refusal for Claregalway supermarket  https://connachttribune.ie/lidl-appeals-planning-refusal-for-claregalway-supermarket/

 

• Galway construction firm Ward & Burke reports record revenue of €409m for 2022: The company directly employs more than 900 people  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/galway-construction-firm-ward-and-burke-reports-record-revenue-of-409m-for-2022-42401962.html

 

• Derelict property in Limerick estate acquired on compulsory basis  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/1068485/derelict-property-in-limerick-estate-acquired-on-compulsory-basis.html

 

• Prominent O’Connell St site to create new residential accommodation  https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/prominent-oconnell-st-site-to-create-new-residential-accommodation/

 

• Retail space at North Quays scaled back  https://www.wlrfm.com/news/retail-space-at-north-quays-scaled-back-298147

 

• Moves to get Lissywollen housing plan back on track  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/03/23/moves-to-get-lissywollen-housing-plan-back-on-track/

 

• Hugh Wallace on Waterford’s North Quays site  https://www.wlrfm.com/podcasts/deise-today/hugh-wallace-on-waterfords-north-quays-site-297896

 

• Plans to build nearly 90 homes near Waterford City on hold after objection  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41097430.html

 

• Two large-scale approved developments in Wexford are appealed to An Bord Pleanála  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/two-large-scale-approved-developments-in-wexford-are-appealed-to-an-bord-pleanala-42398264.html

 

• Applegreen ‘anxious’ to talk about stalled project for derelict Naas site  https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/home/1066453/kildare-applegreen-anxious-to-talk-about-stalled-project-for-derelict-naas-site.html

 

• American billionaire John Malone among those seeking exemption from vacant land levy – Media businessman wants to delist residential zoned land on part of his stud at the Castlemartin estate in Co Kildare  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/20/american-billionaire-john-malone-among-those-seeking-exemption-from-vacant-land-levy/

 

• Deal finally signed for €4.5 million conversion of Wexford convent into accommodation for US students – Agreement sees Georgia Southern University provide first $400,000 for the design phase of the project, first touted over three years ago.  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/deal-finally-signed-for-45-million-conversion-of-wexford-convent-into-accommodation-for-us-students-42397654.html

 

• Planning sought for new residential development on the Ardmore Road in Westmeath  https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2023/03/24/planning-sought-for-new-residential-development-on-the-ardmore-road/

 

• Construction of a new 50,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing plant in Mullingar will start before the end of the year. The IDA are due to appoint a contractor for the facility at the Marlinstown IDA Park before the end of September https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2023/03/25/troy-confirms-work-on-ida-advanced-building-to-start-this-year/

 

• Twenty new units for Cavan Town – Tenders advertised for projects in Ballyhaise and Belturbet  https://www.anglocelt.ie/2023/03/24/twenty-new-units-for-cavan-town/

 

• Errigal Contracts partnership will build on Workplace & Employment Awards success  https://www.irishnews.com/business/2023/03/21/news/errigal_contracts_partnership_will_build_on_workplace_employment_awards_success-3144290/

 

• Meath-based MTM Engineering expects to add €20m in recurring annual revenues after acquiring CET Connect.  https://businessplus.ie/ma/mtm-engineering-cet-connect-acquisition/

 

• An application for a 38-unit three-story apartment building at Robinstown has been submitted to Westmeath County Council by BFJ Developments Limited of Carrickmacross, County Monaghan https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2023/03/23/planning-sought-for-new-residential-development-in-robinstown/

 

• Delay in modular housing for Ukrainians in Cavan  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/delay-in-modular-housing-for-ukrainians-in-cavan-212176

 

• Planning for new Lidl in Killorglin appealed to An Bórd Pleanála  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/planning-for-new-lidl-in-killorglin-appealed-to-an-bord-pleanala-322836

 

• Kerry County Council defers decision on 35 apartments in Dingle  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/kerry-county-council-defers-decision-on-35-apartments-in-dingle-42399212.html

 

• Planning permission sought for 25 houses in Tralee  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/planning-permission-sought-for-25-houses-in-tralee-323124

 

• Tipperary engineering firm SEPAM to create 100 new jobs as part of major expansion: Recruitment has already commenced across the family-owned business for roles in design engineering, commercial and administration  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41099518.html

 

• Aengus Consulting Ltd appoints Eleanor Boland and Carol Connery as Directors  https://irishbuildingmagazine.ie/2023/03/21/aengus-consulting-ltd-appoints-eleanor-boland-and-carol-connery-as-directors/

 

• Engineering firm granted interim injunction to prevent industrial action – Trade union Unite says it is considering appeal of High Court decision  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2023/03/23/engineering-firm-granted-interim-injunction-to-prevent-industrial-action/

 

• Accumulated profits at Michael Healy-Rae plant hire firm increase to €602,609: Post-tax loss of €13,641 reversed at company owned by Independent Kerry TD  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/24/accumulated-profits-at-michael-healy-rae-plant-hire-firm-increases-to-602609/

 

• France’s Egis Group has bought JB Barry & Partners, a Dublin-based civil engineer, for an undisclosed sum. JB Barry’s 180 employees work across four Irish offices in 25 sectors, including water services, transportation and energy.  https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/egis-acquires-irish-civil-engineer-jb-barry/

 

• John thriving as new owner of Midwest Electrical Wholesale  https://www.clareecho.ie/john-thriving-as-new-owner-of-midwest-electrical-wholesale/

 

• Irish property lender secures extra funding from British backer – Onate provides bridging loans of up to €4 million to small and mid-sized investors in residential, mixed-use and commercial developments https://www.businesspost.ie/news/irish-property-lender-secures-extra-funding-from-british-backer/

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

 

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2023 Irish technology providers for the built environment – From smart design and planning right through to the smart property transaction, where does your Irish-led or Ireland-based proptech  or MMC business sit?  Pease take five minutes to add or update your details to our internationally-shared listing here: SIGN UP HERE: *https://prop-tech.ie/register/ * and email product or service details to hello@prop-tech.ie

 

• Proptech Ireland: Ireland’s CONSTRUCTION and REAL ESTATE ESG technologies resource hub. Confused about how and where to start on your ESG journey? Contact us 👉https://prop-tech.ie

 

• Eirmersive is delighted to announce Onward #3 : Exploring the opportunities and challenges around Immersive Technologies for Civic Engagement – the third in our Immersive Industry event series supported by Meta. Onward #3 takes place on the evening of Thursday April 20th at Meta HQ in Ballsbridge, Dublin.  https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/onward-3-immersive-technologies-for-civic-engagement-tickets-582247978377

 

• Earlier this week, our newest team member, Katie Tallon, took part in a 3D Concrete Printing course with FutureCast (https://futurecast.info/), with thanks to Caitríona Ní Aimhirgín, Consultant at FutureCast and Women in Construction & Quarrying champion… https://propertydistrict.ie/3d-concrete-printing-in-ireland/

 

• ‘I love meeting entrepreneurs who are looking at new ways to do things with software’: Barry Downes is managing partner at Sure Valley Ventures, a seed stage investor that recently announced the first close of a new Irish-focused €50 million fund.  https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/barry-downes-i-love-meeting-entrepreneurs-who-are-looking-at-new-ways-to-do-things-with-software/

 

• Start-ups seek revamp of under used employee share scheme  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/start-ups-seek-revamp-of-under-used-employee-share-scheme-42400029.html

 

• FlowForma accelerates US growth as it takes residency in New York business hub  https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/digital-construction/construction-technology-news/flowforma-accelerates-us-growth-as-it-takes-residency-in-new-york-business-hub/123319/

 

• Researchers create self-sensing metamaterial concrete that produce power – The material is designed for lightweight and mechanically-tunable concrete systems.  https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/researchers-create-self-sensing-metamaterial-concrete-that-produce-power

 

• The next decade belongs to Proptech. But how? Who are the people creating this wave? What happens when they come together? Proptech & Fintech, what happens when they come together? What are the construction technologies that Proptech has, that can deliver our homes to us, faster?  https://www.rprealtyplus.com/interviews/proptech-entrepreneurs-shaping-future-of-realty-109950.html

 

• The 26 hottest proptech startups of 2023, according to venture capitalists  https://www.businessinsider.com/top-proptech-companies-startups-2023-3?r=US&IR=T

 

• Future Lab highlights innovation in construction  https://premierconstructionnews.com/2023/03/18/future-lab-highlights-innovation-in-construction/

 

• PriceHubble, the global property data and technology business, has acquired Dataloft, a London based residential property market intelligence firm.  https://propertyindustryeye.com/dataloft-acquired-by-european-proptech-firm/

 

• We were caught up in SVB’s collapse – this is how it will change proptech: Upflex’s CFO gives a first-hand account on a tumultuous week  https://reactnews.com/article/we-were-caught-up-in-svbs-collapse-this-is-how-it-will-change-proptech/

 

• Former Stripe engineer raises $4M for Beam, a fintech startup out to help contractors get paid faster  https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/23/former-stripe-engineer-raises-4m-for-beam-a-fintech-startup-out-to-help-contractors-get-paid-faster/

 

• Proptech startup Operto Guest Technologies has raised $34.4 million CAD ($25 million USD) to expand in the global short-term rental and hotel markets.  https://betakit.com/proptech-startup-operto-raises-34-4-million-cad-to-open-the-door-to-new-markets-literally/

 

• 6 River Systems co-founder on the state of warehouse robots: Now a VP of Shopify Logistics, Jerome Dubois discusses the company’s past and future at ProMat  https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/24/6-river-systems-co-founder-on-the-state-of-warehouse-robots/

 

ENERGY, CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

• World’s climate plans won’t keep temperature rise below 1.5 degrees – major UN report: Humanity can still prevent the worst-case climate scenarios – but we need to act now, the IPCC has confirmed.  https://www.thejournal.ie/ipcc-synthesis-report-climate-crisis-6021081-Mar2023/

 

• We won’t act on climate change until our own comfortable lives are threatened — and that day is coming: It seems we are waiting until it’s too late to do anything  https://m.independent.ie/news/environment/we-wont-act-on-climate-change-until-our-own-comfortable-lives-are-threatened-and-that-day-is-coming-42404197.html

 

• Group warns Ireland ‘not sufficiently prepared’ to adapt to climate change  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/group-warns-ireland-not-sufficiently-prepared-to-adapt-to-climate-change-1450476.html

 

• Data centres have enough on-site power to meet energy needs of entire country – analysis shows extent of the power generation capacity of Microsoft, Amazon, Google and other data centre operators  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/data-centres-have-enough-on-site-power-to-meet-energy-needs-of-entire-country/

 

• North-South interconnector ‘ready to enter construction phase’ after independent review; Construction is anticipated to be completed by 2026  https://www.thejournal.ie/review-gives-approval-for-north-south-interconnector-6025280-Mar2023/

 

• Eirgrid could spend €270m on offshore consultants. National grid operator recruiting specialist advice and partners for five to eight years  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/22/eirgrid-could-spend-270m-on-offshore-consultants/

 

• Minister to officially launch Wind Turbine Technician Apprenticeship in Tralee  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/minister-to-officially-launch-wind-turbine-technician-apprenticeship-in-tralee-323255

 

• Developers Halt Irish Offshore Wind Plans After Policy Shift: Ireland will now choose wind farm locations under new policy – Industry warns several projects in doubt as decisions paused https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-24/developers-halt-irish-offshore-wind-plans-after-policy-shift?utm_source=website&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=linkedin#xj4y7vzkg

 

• Niall Gleeson of Uisce Éireann: ‘If anything happened to the river Liffey, we would be in trouble’: The chief executive of the newly-named body is determined to end raw sewage discharge and bring water supplies east from the Shannon  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/24/niall-gleeson-of-uisce-eireann-if-anything-happened-to-the-river-liffey-we-would-be-in-trouble/

 

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Property prices fall for first time in nearly three years as interest rates bite: Year-on-year inflation softens to 6.1% as higher borrowing costs slows market  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/15/property-price-growth-slows-to-61-as-interest-rates-bite/

 

• Inflation slowing but record property prices means many are ‘being outpriced’  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41093728.html

 

• NON-bank lender ICS Mortgages has announced another large rise in its mortgage rates. The lender is increasing its fixed mortgage interest rates for owner occupier mortgages by between 0.60 percentage points and 1 percentage point.  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/ics-mortgages-the-latest-to-raise-its-lending-rates-42397672.html

 

• Mortgage writedowns secured in up to 40% of formal debt deals – Insolvency service says mortgages typically written down by 15%-34% but has no data on informal deals  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2023/03/13/mortgage-writedowns-secured-in-up-to-40-of-formal-debt-deals/

 

• Surveyors say incentives well below what is needed to tackle dereliction  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41098597.html Also: ‘It’s scary to take these projects on’ – Homeowners renovating derelict building say they need need more help: A new report highlights the barriers to renovating vacant and derelict buildings in Ireland  https://m.independent.ie/news/its-scary-to-take-these-projects-on-homeowners-renovating-derelict-building-say-they-need-need-more-help-42398830.html

 

• Landlords ordered to pay over €30,000 for illegal evictions, invalid termination notices and retaining deposits  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/landlords-ordered-to-pay-over-30000-for-illegal-evictions-invalid-termination-notices-and-retaining-deposits-42398825.html

 

• Figures from the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) show more than 100 Wicklow households could be facing eviction when the ban expires at the end of March.  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/figures-show-more-than-100-wicklow-households-facing-eviction-42398302.html

 

• Wicklow renters share stories in online campaign – ‘Desperation, hopelessness, suicidal’  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/wicklow-renters-share-stories-in-online-campaign-desperation-hopelessness-suicidal-42398298.html

 

• Law to strengthen short-term letting regulations may be delayed by up to nine months: Government hopes planned short-term letting register could free up thousands of properties for use in wider rental market  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/03/22/law-to-strengthen-short-term-letting-regulations-may-be-delayed-by-up-to-nine-months/

 

• South African insurance company OUTsurance confirmed to its investors on Wednesday that it plans to enter the Irish market next year, targeting motor and home coverage https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/22/south-african-insurer-outsurance-confirms-irish-market-entry-plan/

 

• Galway college students nightmare as young man doing unthinkable for accommodation  https://www.galwaybeo.ie/news/ireland-news/galway-college-students-nightmare-young-8273292

 

• 636 approved applicants on Clonmel Borough District housing list  https://tippfm.com/news/housing/636-approved-applicants-clonmel-borough-district-housing-list/

 

• Crazy house prices: ‘I think it’s starting to resonate that millennials aren’t just complaining’: Ciarán Mulqueen reflects on the Instagram post about ‘crazy house prices’ that spawned a resource, a community and now a book  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/2023/03/25/crazy-house-prices-i-think-its-starting-to-resonate-that-millennials-arent-just-complaining/

 

• How can I get my house ready for sale as quickly as possible? Property Clinic: We are looking to move in the coming months, what steps should we take to have the house ready to go?  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/03/22/what-should-we-do-to-prepare-our-house-for-sale/ Also: Organisation and paperwork the key to getting that house sold – Preparation is key when it comes to selling a home but all parties should expect delays  https://www.businesspost.ie/article/organisation-and-paperwork-the-key-to-getting-that-house-sold/

 

• New houses for sale in Ireland — a Sandymount gem and a fully-refurbished Kilkenny home  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/new-houses-for-sale-in-ireland-a-sandymount-gem-and-a-fully-refurbished-kilkenny-home-vkqnbnjbb

 

• Woodlands Park takes centre stage with a hint of old Hollywood style – Monochrome glamour and an eye for high-end detail and finishes gives this sprawling mansion in south Co Dublin real sophistication  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/woodlands-park-takes-centre-stage-with-a-hint-of-old-hollywood-style/

 

• Builder’s substantial waterside home on the greenway in Mayo for €895,000: Overlooking the Newport River, this five-bedroom Co Mayo house is up the road from the ancestral home of Grace Kelly  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/03/22/substantial-waterside-home-in-newport-for-895000/

 

• Waterford whopper with tennis court and stables is a €1.35m boomtime build: Knock House has all the Celtic Tiger trimmings https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41100409.html

 

• Looking for a home in Co Clare? Try this three-bed for €229,000 or terraced fixer-upper for €85,000 – A guide to a range of properties on the market in Clare  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/03/20/looking-for-a-home-in-co-clare-try-this-three-bed-for-229000-or-terraced-fixer-upper-for-85000/

 

• Architect Amanda Bone on how she nearly rejected RTÉ’s ‘Home of the Year’ but turning 50 brought change of heart  https://m.independent.ie/entertainment/architect-amanda-bone-on-how-she-nearly-rejected-rtes-home-of-the-year-but-turning-50-brought-change-of-heart-42398786.html

 

• Westlife star Mark Feehily sells stately south Dublin home for €2.425m: Five-bed period pile on sought-after Sandycove stretch is the latest in a series of singer’s residential property transactions  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/03/23/westlife-star-mark-feehily-sells-stately-south-dublin-home-for-2425m/

 

• Selfbuild: Jennifer Sheahan: How to choose a contractor and go through the tender process: Your contractor oversees your renovation. You need to trust they will deliver to a high standard, within your budget and on time  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41097652.html

 

• Dry rot, leaking roof, cracked walls and a family history: Diary of a #firsttime homeowner’s #renovation project: Adeclining listed cottage, with lots of family history, needed a plan for its future. In the first of a new series, Steven Carroll talks about his decision to leave Dublin to return to his roots in rural Wexford to renovate the home. https://www.irishtimes.com/property/2023/03/25/dry-rot-leaking-roof-cracked-walls-and-a-family-history-diary-of-a-first-time-homeowners-renovation-project/

 

• Ten interiors featuring natural materials and timeless accents  https://www.dezeen.com/2023/03/19/ten-interiors-natural-materials-timeless-accents-lookbooks/

 

• Take a look inside Ireland’s dream living spaces of 2023 – Colour, fun and practicality are the buzzwords among design professionals and homeowners in the Houzz community  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41100109.html

 

 

 

 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• KBC seeks occupier for landmark Dublin headquarters as part of exit from Irish market: Belgian-owned bank retains QRE Real Estate Advisers to manage disposal of commercial property portfolio  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/03/22/kbc-seeks-occupier-for-dublin-headquarters-as-part-of-exit-from-irish-market/

 

• Mystery surrounds boutique hotel that was planned to be used as homeless hostel as eviction ban ends – The Peter McVerry Trust was granted planning permission to provide ‘short-term accommodation’ by Dublin City Council  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/mystery-surrounds-boutique-hotel-planned-26533709

 

• McKillen jnr’s Oakmount seeks tenants for final units at Bray Central – New centre’s tenant line-up includes Penneys, Sports Direct, Butler’s Chocolate Cafe, Stella Cinema and Bert’s Bowl  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/03/22/mckillen-jnrs-oakmount-seeks-occupiers-for-final-units-at-bray-central/

 

• Flight to quality: Why premium retail brands can’t get enough bricks and mortar: As Nike announces a ‘concept’ store in Dundrum and the Chatham & King development off Grafton Street welcomes top-end brands, what does the future of retail look like?  https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/flight-to-quality-why-premium-retail-brands-cant-get-enough-bricks-and-mortar/

 

• Retailer GameStop to cut services across its Irish outlets: no GameStop currently operates 35 stores across Ireland, down from over 50 a decade ago  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41101189.html

 

• Tigers Childcare invests €4m in expansion plan: One of Ireland’s largest childcare groups now operates 19 centres in Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Cork  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/22/tigers-childcare-invests-4m-in-expansion-plan/

 

• Mowlam Healthcare, runs 28 private nursing homes and has more in the pipeline  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/mowlam-healthcare-boss-has-ambitious-plans-to-open-more-homes-cgr6sbwz7

 

• Hostelworld profits up as global travel sector bounces back: Revenue for first quarter hits 115 per cent of pre-Covid levels after cost-cutting measures and recovery of tourism in Europe, Asia and Oceania  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/hostelworld-profits-up-as-global-travel-sector-bounces-back/

 

• Scaffolding firm liable for €2m over wrongful termination of lease: Instant Upright occupied space in Park West before a storm-related roof collapse  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/03/22/scaffolding-firm-liable-for-2m-over-wrongful-termination-of-lease/

 

• Ikea set to open a plan and order outlet in Cork city – It is envisaged that Ikea’s new outlet in the Douglas Village Shopping Centre could be ready and opened in the coming weeks. https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41100880.html

 

• Plan to give new lease of life to old Mayo grain store  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/03/21/plan-to-give-new-lease-of-life-to-old-mayo-grain-store/

 

• God’s bankers’ approval due for Ennismore Dominican Retreat Centre sale in Cork  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41099719.html

 

• Cavan Monaghan ETB gets ‘green light’ for new training facility  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/cavan-monaghan-etb-gets-green-light-for-new-training-facility-212301

 

• Abbott’s latest expansion plan appealed by An Taisce  https://www.anglocelt.ie/2023/03/25/abbotts-latest-expansion-plan-appealed-by-an-taisce/

 

• How to solve a problem like John Lewis? Retail experts give their views  https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/mar/24/john-lewis-retail-experts-strategy

 

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Some of the best known UK construction firms have been slapped with combined fines of almost €68m, and three company directors have been disqualified, for illegally colluding to rig bids for contracts for high-profile public and private contracts https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41100316.html

 

• UK Construction sector ‘heading for drop in employment numbers’  https://propertyindustryeye.com/construction-sector-heading-for-drop-in-employment-numbers/

 

• Call grows for bolder 18m second staircase rule for flats https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/03/23/call-grows-for-bolder-18m-second-staircase-rule-for-flats/

 

• Rebuild or retrofit? Row breaks out over plans for Camden estate – London borough to replace West Kentish Town estate, but rival plan claims to have a much smaller climate impact  https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/mar/22/rebuild-retrofit-carbon-row-breaks-out-plans-camden-council-estate

 

• Young Portuguese defer dreams as housing crisis bites: Rents and sale prices have soared, with critics saying Airbnbs and ‘golden visas’ for foreign investors have aggravated the problem  https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2023/03/21/young-portuguese-defer-dreams-as-housing-crisis-bites/

 

• Spain Drought: Church of Sant Romà re-emerges from reservoir after drought  https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/65006393

 

• Sydney’s housing market ranked the second least affordable in the world, report reveals  https://www.realestate.com.au/news/sydneys-housing-market-ranked-the-second-least-affordable-in-the-world-report-reveals/

 

• Australia’s first mass-timber high-rise apartment building, which was built from cross-laminated timber grown in Austria.  https://www.dezeen.com/2023/03/20/lend-lease-forte-cross-laminated-timber-tallest-residential-building/

 

• Seoul Reveals Revolutionary Urban Design Plan  https://www.forbes.com/sites/seoul/2023/03/20/seoul-reveals-revolutionary-urban-design-plan/amp/

 

FACEBOOK GROUP FOR IRISH PROPERTY BUYERS & INVESTORS

Crowd-sourcing answers topical property questions:

As many of you might know, my annual property book The Irish Property Buyers’ Handbook (since 2011) was rebranded in 2018 and now appears as part of The Property Insider series, published by Oak Tree Press, the first three titles are now published and available here: https://www.amazon.com/Carol-Tallon/

From 2020, the publishers and I wanted to ensure the content remains topical and we are now doing this by crowd-sourcing home buyer and investor queries, with crowd-sourced and editorial team answers.

Join the Facebook Group here to contribute: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishPropertyBuyers/