The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has announced a strategic partnership with MMC Ireland to drive the modernisation of Ireland’s construction sector.
CIOB claims Modern Methods of Construction work toward a sustainable built environment, better working conditions, and a more productive construction sector.
The aim is to deliver high-quality buildings more quickly than conventional, onsite construction.
The term is generally used to describe construction which takes place in a factory setting as opposed to onsite, including construction of full 3-D units or modules or flat, 2-D units or panels, then transported to the site integrated with the rest of the building.
It follows the publication of a report into the barriers to greater use of MMC in Ireland with a focus on the residential sector.
The Modern Methods of Construction: barriers and benefits for Irish housing report, published in January, found that MMC can offer various potential benefits to those working within the sector and to society at large, mainly in its positive environmental impact.
The report states: “It is estimated that 37% of Ireland’s carbon emissions come from the built environment. Of this, 14% is from the embodied carbon arising from the production and transport of building materials, as well as the maintenance, repair and disposal of
buildings and infrastructure.”
Moreover the report finds that the precarious working conditions found in construction can be reduced through controlled factory settings and “enables workers to escape from Ireland’s climate, which can be harsh in winter months.”
Caroline Gumble, chief executive officer at CIOB, said: “Over the course of 2024 the CIOB in Ireland has dedicated considerable time and effort to making the case for a policy environment that facilitates the wider adoption of MMC in the residential sector.
“This partnership with MMC Ireland will allow us to extend our message beyond residential, to all aspects of the built environment.”
Paul Tierney, chief executive officer at MMC Ireland, added: “MMC Ireland represents 90 companies and growing, across all aspects of MMC delivery.
“We are a knowledge bridge between industry, government and other clients.
“This strategic partnership with the CIOB, the world’s largest professional body for construction management and leadership, allows both bodies to work together openly, to evolve and improve MMC delivery across Ireland and beyond.
“There is a real opportunity for Ireland to become a centre of Excellence in Europe and partnering with the CIOB will help us achieve that goal.”
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