A&L Goodbody LLP is involved in the construction of some of Ireland’s largest projects, including transport and healthcare infrastructure projects as well as developments in Dublin city centre. The team is adept at advising on non-contentious matters, such as procurement and the negotiation and drafting of project documents, as well as handling disputes, including adjudication and court proceedings. The practice acts for a broad range of clients spanning public bodies, developers, contractors and project funders. The team is led by Conor Owens, who has deep experience across procurement, construction contracts and litigation. Kevin Feeney is another highly experienced figure in the team and has been active in the construction area for more than 30 years, including working as a civil engineer before he qualified as a lawyer. Eamonn Gill and senior associate Jamie Rattigan is also praised by clients. The team was further strengthened by the arrival of Enda O’Keeffe, who has notable expertise in contentious construction matters, from Maples Group in March 2022. Robert Rooney moved to Mason Hayes & Curran LLP.
Construction in Ireland
A&L Goodbody LLP
Practice head(s):
Conor Owens
Other key lawyers:
Kevin Feeney; Eamonn Gill; Jamie Rattigan; Enda O’Keeffe
Testimonials
‘Having worked in a law firm and with other construction teams I can safely say that ALG’s team is the best out there. The standard of the lawyers is above any I have seen. They know their practice area inside out and are acutely familiar with the nuances of the market.’
‘I worked with Jamie Rattigan recently on a very long and difficult funding deal. Jamie was exceptional. His ability to analyse and work through complex legal drafting is second to none. Jamie at all times tries to see the bigger picture and views everything through a commercial prism. He knows our business very well and as a result knows how to strategically advise us.’
‘Excellent turn around times. Pragmatic and sensible advice.
‘The very personal approach is the driving characteristic that sets this team apart from others.’
Key clients
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
BAM Building Limited
Kells ICAV (Mayer Bergman)
National Asset Management Agency
Cairn Homes Properties plc
Glenveagh Properties plc
TIO South Docks Fund II Limited
WuXi Biologics Ireland Limited
Echelon Data Centres (Aldgate Developments Limited)
Irish Water
Dalata Plc
IPUT plc
Irish Aviation Authority
Glennmont Clean Energy Cooperatief U.A.
Gas Networks Ireland
University College Dublin (UCD)
Athlone Institute of Technology
National University Of Ireland, Maynooth
Work highlights
- Advising Transport Infrastructure Ireland on the procurement and construction of the new Metrolink Project valued at €3.5bn.
- Representing BAM Building in a substantial dispute in the Commercial Court concerning the construction of the new Children’s Hospital.
- Advising UCD Property Development Company on the procurement and construction strategy for its Student Residences Masterplan.
Arthur Cox
The construction practice at Arthur Cox is highly active in the energy space, advising on the design, construction, and operation of projects including offshore and onshore wind, solar, battery storage and waste-to-energy plants. In addition, the practice is heavily involved in residential and commercial developments, acting for prominent investment funds and developers in this space. Practice head Niav O’Higgins is praised by clients as an ‘exceptional lawyer’, while Karen Killoran is highly experienced in acting for the full range of parties in construction matters. Niamh McGovern was appointed partner in January 2021, further strengthening the team at senior level.
Practice head(s):
Niav O’Higgins
Other key lawyers:
Karen Killoran; Niamh McGovern; Sinéad Flanagan; Ciara Dooley
Testimonials
‘Strong team within the construction practice with good market experience. Well resourced. Consistent views from partners and associates.’
‘Good market level experience as they work for both developers and banks.’
‘The construction team at Arthur Cox continue to provide timely, commercially focused and relevant advices across our range of matters. They are always at the end of the phone and provide terrific support both in terms of dispute mitigation and resolution.’
‘Karen Killoran is widely respected as being a readily available practitioner who is familiar with the client organisation’s risk appetite and who can deliver pragmatic advice.’
‘Their strength lies in their vast experience and commercial mindset. They provide practical solutions and alternative ways of doing things. Very good collaboration with other practice areas such as property and procurement to ensure that the context of the advice sought is accurate.’
‘Niav O’Higgins is an exceptional lawyer and an amazing individual. At the top of her game, builds trust quickly and is very personable. Commercial mindset, very practical and sees around corners. Talented at explaining complex matters in plain English, which is much appreciated. Sinead Flanagan is very good.’
‘The team is easy to approach and very friendly. When it comes to the workload it is fast and efficient – a perfect combination.’
‘Karen Killoran and Ciara Dooley are proactive and give sensible solutions to issues that arise. Took the time to know and understand our team and what is important to us as a business.’
Key clients
Facebook Inc
Oweninny Power 2 DAC
Applegreen
Energia Group
Tristan Capital Group
Highfield Solar
Irish Water
Export Import Bank of Korea and Kookmin Bank
National Asset Management Agency
TIO North Docks DAC
Bain Capital Credit
Amundi Asset Management
Premier Green Holdings Limited
Ardstone Capital
Glencar
Archer
Blackstone
Intel
Kennedy Wilson
Spear Street
Land Development Agency
Irish Social Housing Property II S.Á.R.L
Barola Asset Management Ltd
Union Investment (USG)
Work highlights
- Advising Facebook on its very significant data centre development programme, both in Ireland (at Clonee in Co Meath) and across Europe.
- Advising Oweninny Power 2 DAC (a joint venture between ESB and Bord na Móna) in relation to all aspects of the development and financing of the 83MW Phase 2 of the Oweninny Wind Farm, Ireland’s largest wind development project.
- Advising Applegreen on the acquisition of a venture to develop 27 service areas on the New York State Thruway, as part of the development of its US business.
Mason Hayes & Curran LLP
Mason Hayes & Curran LLP is noted for the breadth of its construction practice, which extends beyond residential and commercial developments to include major projects in the energy and transport sectors. The team also stands out for its contentious work, representing clients in adjudication and Commercial Court proceedings, including in disputes involving PPP projects. Rory Kirrane SC leads the practice and acts for all parties in the construction space, including developers, contractors and utilities; he also advises corporations and public bodies on procurement. Eoin Cassidy has a broad practice, with a particular focus on the energy sector, and Shane Dolan is also praised by clients. Robert Rooney joined the team from A&L Goodbody LLP.
Practice head(s):
Rory Kirrane SC
Other key lawyers:
Eoin Cassidy; Susan Bryson; Paul Bassett; Shane Dolan; David Gunn; Anne McCarthy; Hannah Devoy
Testimonials
‘The team at MHC are a pleasure to work with. Always responsive, always willing to help out and give us the best advice.’
‘Shane Dolan and Paul Bassett on the construction team stand out for their consistent, down-to-earth approach to problems and negotiations. Construction is a people business and these two guys stand out to me in how they handle both clients and opposing law firms.’
‘The MHC construction practice consistently provide excellent, relevant and pragmatic advice. They are extremely adept at quickly distilling the key issues in very complex disputes and offer straightforward guidance and solutions which are aligned with the client’s core needs.’
‘Rory Kirrane is a pleasure to work with. His in-depth knowledge of this area of law is evident and instils immediate confidence in the advice provided. He is particularly skillful when it comes to providing strategic advice on contentious matters, understands the client’s priorities and guides the client in a sensible and efficient manner. Hannah Devoy is also excellent to work with and consistently demonstrates a thorough understanding of construction law. She offers clear, pragmatic advice which is cognisant of client requirements and time pressures.’
‘As a foreign attorney I very much appreciate Susan Bryson’s ability to explain how procedures work and her ability to make the client deeply aware of the possible consequences of any action taken or decision made.’
‘The go-to team when entering the Irish market. Very efficient, knowledgeable and extremely good quality from the whole team. Able to create solutions fast and spot the key risks. They have also helped to come up with new creative solutions when needed. Deliver crystal-clear advice also to clients like me who are from abroad and a different legal system.’
‘Rory Kirrane is probably the best lawyer I have met. He is extremely knowledgeable and clever, easy to approach, able to give clear advice fast and cost efficiently, and extremely commercially minded. He is able to deliver superb value for the work done, and gets straight to the point of the relevant matters without any nonsense. Anne McCarthy has also been a highly valued team player; she delivers excellent results and is always available when needed.’
‘I found Eoin Cassidy extremely easy to deal with and I liked the fact that although he is a partner in the firm he took charge of being the point of contact. It made my life as a general counsel a lot easier and streamlined the communications. In addition, Eoin seemed to be able to quickly understand the queries raised and the type of response required to fully resolve the issues, no matter how complex they were.’
Key clients
Irish Water
BAM Civil Limited
Dragados Ireland Limited
BAM Building Limited
Exyte Northern Europe Limited
SSE Renewables Ireland Limited
AmTrust Europe Limited
Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale
Lou Investments
Allied Irish Banks p.l.c.
easyhotel Ireland Limited
Irish Life Assurance plc
Torc Sustainable Housing Limited
Rohan Holdings
PJ Hegarty & Sons
Quintain Ireland
Hines Real Estate
John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Limited
SDR Property Owners Management Company CLG
Irish Residential Properties REIT PLC
Allergan Pharmaceuticals Ireland
Fortum eNext Ireland Limited
Work highlights
- Advising SSE on all aspects of the offshore lease, consenting, development and procurement of Phase II of the Arklow Bank Wind Farm, with a projected capacity of between 500 and 800MW.
- Advising Irish Water across all aspects of its operations, including on major infrastructure contracts and on its largest and most strategically important construction disputes.
- Advising Torc Sustainable Housing Limited on the impact of Covid-19 on its work on the Social Housing PPP Bundle 2.
McCann FitzGerald LLP
McCann FitzGerald LLP‘s construction team has a broad practice, acting for some of the most prominent developers and contractors in the Irish market as well as advising public bodies on procurement. The team regularly works alongside other practices in the firm to advise on projects, including handling financings and forward sales. In addition to mixed-use, residential and commercial developments, the team advises on complex projects such as wind farms, assisting with construction, supply, operation and maintenance contracts. Practice heads Kevin Kelly and Barrett Chapman have deep experience in the construction area, including representing clients in mediation and court proceedings. Stephen Proctor and senior associate Jamie McGee, who previously worked as a project manager, are also names to note. Orlaith Sheehy was promoted to partner in May 2021 and focuses on public procurement of contractors.
Practice head(s):
Kevin Kelly; Barrett Chapman
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Proctor; Jamie McGee; Orlaith Sheehy
Testimonials
‘McCann Fitzgerald offer a very good holistic service across all areas of development from planning consultancy to site acquisition, construction contracts, professional appointments and dispute resolution. They are a very collegiate and forward-thinking practice, and extremely solution orientated.’
‘Barrett Chapman has been our main contact for many years, but the team who work with him have also demonstrated the company’s ability to achieve a very reliable and consistent level of service. Where we have used other firms occasionally, we have found they often review a contract on our behalf and just give options for how to respond. The McCann Fitzgerald team have always given good, strong advice to help us in negotiations.’
‘What stands out is their desire and focus on getting the best outcome for their client. You get input from the lead partners, not just their presence. The team’s capabilities include a broad range of specialities and an in-depth knowledge of the construction industry. They value relationships and take care to maintain them.’
‘Barrett Chapman is a leader in this field. The respect that he commands is very well deserved. He is commercial, succinct and able to condense complicated scenarios into easy-to-implement strategies. Jamie McGee is a rising star. He is a pleasure to work with and talented in this field.’
‘A very solid team all round, headed by a widely experienced and highly respected partner grouping. The construction practice has built up its team across all levels of seniority and invested heavily in recruiting rising stars in the last couple of years to the benefit of its clients in terms of responsiveness and fee management.’
‘Jamie McGee is a very approachable, logical, pragmatic and open individual with a friendly personality, making it very easy to discuss issues and agree on a suitable way forward.’
‘Stephen Proctor is very pragmatic and will always look for a solution to any perceived difficulty in legal agreements.’
‘Kevin Kelly is excellent.’
Key clients
Activate
AIB
An Post
Ardstone Partners ICAV
Bain Capital Credit LP
Ballymore Group
Bank of Ireland
Bartra Capital Property Group
Billings Design Associates
Blackstone
Bord Na Móna plc
Clancy Construction
Collen Construction
Dublin City Council
Ervia/Aurora
ESB
Grangegorman Development Agency
Hammerson/Allianz
Helaba
Housing Finance Agency
HSBC
Irish Water
John Sisk
Jones Engineering
Lioncor
Macquarie Capital
Marlet Property Group
National Development Finance Agency
National Paediatric Hospital Development Board
Office of Government Procurement
Office of Public Works
Orpea Groupe
Project Management Group
Quintain Ireland and Various Lone Star Funds
Roche Ireland Limited
Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Walls Construction
WeWork
Work highlights
- Advising Ballymore on the development with Diageo of 12 acres of Diageo’s complex at St James’s Gate in central Dublin, which is to become Dublin’s first zero carbon district, at a reported commercial value of €1bn.
- Advising Hammerson on the major redevelopment of a mixed retail, office and residential scheme at Dublin Central, a large block formerly known as the Carlton site, at a projected estimated cost in excess of €1bn.
- Advising the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board on contractual matters arising during the construction of the new Children’s Hospital, including providing assistance in adjudication and conciliation procedures and court proceedings.
William Fry
The construction team at William Fry is instructed on some of Ireland’s largest developments, with a focus on advising developers. The team acts across a range of asset classes, including private rental accommodation, mixed-use developments, data centres, industrial plants and infrastructure, and has recently been engaged by clients to provide advice on disputes related to delays and increased costs caused by Covid-19 and associated restrictions. Liam McCabe has more than 20 years’ experience in this space, acting on private developments and PPP projects. Bryanna Ryan is highly experienced in the negotiation and drafting of construction contracts, and Jarleth Heneghan handles both contentious and non-contentious matters in this space. Consultant Cassandra Byrne is also praised by clients for her advice on procurement, construction documentation and disputes.
Practice head(s):
Liam McCabe
Other key lawyers:
Bryanna Ryan; Jarleth Heneghan; Cassandra Byrne
Testimonials
‘I found the team extremely knowledgeable, with an understanding of how to appropriately and commercially apply statutory frameworks and allocate risk between the client and the contractor. The team were diligent and thorough throughout, taking an active role in driving all parties to a conclusion on key elements. They were friendly and fun to work with – totally user-friendly. This has been an excellent, successful and smooth experience for all those involved, due to the rigour delivered by the William Fry team throughout.’
‘My primary point of contact has been Cassandra Byrne. I have been a client of a number of top-tier UK law firms and this has been my best experience of working in partnership, by far. Cassandra took extra effort to explain the appropriate Irish contractual forms, examining similarities, differences and consequential risks between these and other construction standard forms. Cassandra’s influence and rapport helped smooth the relationship with the contractor and her strategic perspective helped situate our work within the framework of a related real estate transaction.’
‘The team’s expert knowledge of construction with respect to contracts and its strategic approach in the context of challenging scenarios has provided us with an excellent specialist service. The ability to get to heart of an issue quickly, fully understand it and set out a clear pathway to an effective outcome is also a key strength.’
‘Jarlath Heneghan always provides a clear pathway to overcome significant issues and does so with notable effectiveness. This is a combination of unique ability, experience and highly focused determination to achieve the optimal outcome for his clients as part of a high-quality service. Cassandra Byrne is highly responsive to clients’ needs. Her contractual knowledge and ability has given us, as the client, great confidence in her approach, which ultimately has delivered the results and outcomes that we sought. We can recommend both Jarleth and Cassandra without reservation.’
‘William Fry have great experience and expertise in big construction projects in the Irish market and are good at explaining the issues in layman’s terms.’
‘Jarleth Heneghan is very easy to talk to, and good at providing explanations and helping clients to understand why the paperwork is important, as well as helping with negotiation strategy.’
‘Liam McCabe shows enthusiasm and commitment to the client and the work being undertaken, professionalism at all times, responsiveness, and knowledge of the industry and subject matter.’
‘We value their attention to detail and understanding of the ever-changing regulatory environment. They have the ability to react quickly to events and to stick with the issue until it is satisfactorily resolved. I would like to show particular gratitude to Jarleth Heneghan and Cassandra Byrne for their assistance.’
Key clients
Hines/King Street Capital
Diageo
Department of Environment, Climate & Communications
National Asset Management Agency (NAMA)/Receiver
GA Development Fund ICAV
Hines / Peterson
Edwards Life Sciences
Arora Hotels
Kennedy Wilson
Digital Realty Trust
Dublin Airport Authority (daa) plc
Hines GREIT II Ireland Fund ICAV
Irish Life Assurance plc
Value Retail
Hammerson plc
Fitzwilliam Real Estate Properties Ltd
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
JD Wetherspoons
Biomarin Pharmaceutical Inc
Circle K (formerly Topaz)
National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA)
Blackrock Real Estate
U+I Group plc (formerly Development Securities plc)
Starwood Capital Group
Tesco
Dublin City Council
Fingal County Council
Veryan Medical Limited
MML Growth Capital Partners Limited
Aviva Investors Ireland Limited
Credit Suisse
Allied Irish Banks plc
Yew Grove REIT
Merck Millipore
Curam Healthcare
Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited
Real I.S. AG
Glenmore Generation Limited
Blackpitts Development Limited Partnership
Invesco Real Estate
Bank of Ireland
Red Hat
Work highlights
- Advising Hines and King Street Capital on the development of a new suburb within a 412-acre site in Cherrywood, south Dublin, which is to contain homes, a retail-led town centre, schools, parks and leisure facilities.
- Advising Diageo PLC on all aspects of the proposed large-scale regeneration of the landmark St James’ Gate Guinness Brewery site, to be known as Guinness Quarter, a new urban quarter extending to approximately 12.5 acres in central Dublin.
- Advising the Department of Environment, Climate & Communications on the National Broadband Plan (NBP), the largest infrastructure project in the state, which will ensure all premises have access to high-speed broadband, at a cost of €3bn.
ByrneWallace LLP
ByrneWallace LLP established its combined construction, infrastructure and energy practice in 2021, bringing together partners from across these practice areas into one team. This adds to the team’s capabilities in advising across the full lifecycle of projects, from initial financing through to construction and eventual transactions involving the project assets. The construction team is highly active in both contentious and non-contentious work, in sectors including housing, healthcare, data centres and commercial property. Martin Cooney leads the team and handles disputes and contract drafting, with experience across standard form and bespoke contracts. Senior associate Deirdre Hennessy is also praised by clients as ‘extremely knowledgable’.
Practice head(s):
Martin Cooney
Other key lawyers:
Deirdre Hennessy; Lisa Maloney; Fergal Ruane
Testimonials
‘Martin Cooney and his team provide concise detailed advice on any manner of complex issues in a remarkably quick manner. Whether it be a contentious issue on a difficult project or the best procurement and contractual path to undertake for a building or engineering project, they have the right answer.’
‘Martin Cooney is a classic all-rounder, a master of the construction process from the inception of the project to the tender stage, construction stage and, if required, the dispute stage. His deep knowledge of the industry and the many pitfalls and risks that parties must navigate is always impressive. His clarity of advice merits special mention. No less capable is Deirdre Hennessy, whose ability to get to grips with any commercial or contractual problem speedily is remarkable.’
‘I believe the construction practice at ByrneWallace have on numerous matters demonstrated a real commercial awareness and in-depth knowledge of the construction sector. These qualities combined with their proactive approach are unique and of fundamental importance to my department.’
‘Martin Cooney is a highly knowledgeable lawyer with an excellent understanding of the development and construction sector. He demonstrates significant expertise in transactional matters, drafting and negotiating a wide range of contracts. Deirdre Hennessy is extremely knowledgeable and has continuously demonstrated her extensive experience as a highly competent and skilful contentious lawyer. Lisa Maloney is an extremely focused lawyer who has continuously demonstrated significant expertise in both contentious and non-contentious matters.’
‘Martin Cooney is tenacious, sensible and very client focused.’
‘The partners and associates are extremely friendly and make themselves available whenever needed. They have an in-depth knowledge of their individual specialisms and work very hard on your behalf to achieve the optimal outcome.’
‘Martin Cooney and Lisa Maloney are the standout people for us. Their combined legal skills and deep knowledge of construction contracts and practice make them a formidable team, the best we have engaged with in fact. We wouldn’t go anywhere else.’
‘The most impressive characteristic of the Byrne Wallace team, and in particular Martin Cooney and Deirdre Hennessy, is the breadth of experience they bring to the table. They clearly have the most up-to-date information and case law available, and the ability of Martin and his team to grasp the relevant facts of a dispute is excellent. The subsequent advice provided is clear and concise.’
Key clients
Environmental Protection Agency
Beneavin Contractors Limited
Citywest Developments Limited
Flynn Management & Contractors limited
Cullaun Capital
Pathway Homes
Redrock Gloucester Street
Keppel Reit Datacentres
Circle Voluntary Housing Association
Ulster Bank Ireland DAC
Chartered Land/ Castlethorn Developments
Gravity Construction
Clonburris Infrastructure Limited
Cluid Housing
Exeter Ireland Property IV Limited
Work highlights
- Advising the Environmental Protection Agency, including on the terms of all of the required financial instruments to be provided by EPA-licensed operators, reviewing and updating the instruments and negotiating and re-drafting the terms in line with EPA requirements.
- Represented Gravity Construction in High Court proceedings for the enforcement of an adjudicator’s decision which had awarded the sum of over €135,000 in favour of the client, in one of the first court judgments in Ireland on adjudications.
- Advised Keppel REIT Datacentres Ireland on the full suite of construction documents, including both drafting and negotiating the documents for the construction and fit out of a new data hall at the client’s data centre in Ballycoolin, Dublin.
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland leverages its international network of offices to advise on complex, multi-jurisdictional construction projects. In addition to advising on residential and commercial developments, the team is also active in fast-growing sectors such as data centres. The construction practice frequently works alongside the firm’s other teams, such as banking and real estate, to provide comprehensive advice on project development. Construction disputes also form a key part of the practice, with Dermot McEvoy leading in this area and acting for developers and contractors. McEvoy co-heads the team with Mark Varian, who specialises in non-contentious work. Conall McLoughlin is another name to note in the team and provides advice across the lifecycle of projects.
Practice head(s):
Mark Varian; Dermot McEvoy
Other key lawyers:
Conall McLoughlin
Testimonials
‘An experienced team with different areas of expertise, delivering a coherent service and advice.’
‘Good, flexible sparring partners. Well connected in the sector. Understand both the legal as well as the commercial considerations.’
Key clients
AIG
Allied Irish Banks plc
MFX Property/Nexus
Avestus Capital Partners/Richmond Homes
Cairn Homes Properties
CyrusOne
Ronan Group Real Estate
Dublin Port Company
Duff & Phelps
EirGrid plc
Réseau de Transport d’Electricité
Hibernia REIT
Ervia including Irish Water and Gas Networks Ireland
Breedon Group/Lagan
Gembira Limited
EE Group / Ciaran & Colum Butler / Starbucks (Ireland)/Leisureplex
McCauley Daye O’Connell Architects
SMR International Windpartks
Murphy Group
National Development Finance Agency
OCS Ireland
Octopus Healthcare/MedicX Fund
Walls Construction
Stena Line
Tetrarch Capital Limited
Waterman Moylan
Stephen Tierney Architects
Health Services Executive (Corporate Estates)
Worklab Innovation Limited
Murform Limited
Hammond Lane / Clearway Group
Bestsellers Limited
Gembira
Reads / O’Flaherty’s (Nassau) Street Limited
Schindler Lifts
Hollandia Structures
John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Limited
Diageo Ireland Limited
CGN Europe Energy SAS
Carlyle Investment Management LLC
Retal Group
Abtran
ShoeZone plc
Earlsfort Centre Developments
Work highlights
- Advising the National Development Finance Agency on a number of crucial higher education projects, currently involving the procurement of the Third Level Institutions PPP for large-scale construction projects at 11 institutes of technology throughout Ireland.
- Acting for Reads of Nassau Street (O’Flaherty’s of Nassau Street) in a significant High Court case against Setanta Centre Unlimited concerning the impact on the client’s rights of an ongoing development project.
- Acted for Ronan Group Real Estate in relation to the joint venture with Oaktree Capital Management and Nama for the development of the 37.2 acre Poolbeg West Strategic Development Zone in south Dublin, known locally as the Glass Bottle site.
Maples Group
The construction team at Maples Group advises the full range of parties in the construction sector on both contentious and non-contentious work. The team is active in the rapidly growing private rental and logistics infrastructure sectors, and is also involved in major mixed-use developments. In addition to handling the negotiation and drafting of construction documents, the team represents developers, contractors and suppliers in high-profile adjudication and litigation, including acting in High Court cases. Practice head Mary Dunne leads the team’s advisory work, with Kevin Harnett the key figure on the contentious side of the practice.
Practice head(s):
Mary Dunne
Other key lawyers:
Kevin Harnett
Key clients
Abestos Capital Partners
Allied Irish Banks
AMP Capital Investors UK Limited
Apollo Management International LLP
Ardmac Limited
Ashurst LLP
Avestus
BAM Contracting Limited
Bank of Ireland
Caffe Nero Ireland Limited
Cairn Homes Plc
Cardinal Capital Group Limited
CareChoice Group Limited
Chandos Investments Plc
Clúid Housing Association
Collen Construction Limited
Construction Industry Federation
Deutsche Bank
Deutsche Borse AG
Deutsche Hypothekenbank
Duggan Brothers (Contractors) Limited
Durkan New Homes Unlimited Company
Eagle Horizons Limited
Earlsfort Centre Hotel Proprietors Limited
EGIS Lagan Services Limited No
Ennis Property Finance DAC
Ferrovial Agroman (Ireland) Limited
G. & T. Crampton
Gas Networks Ireland
Goldman Sachs
Grant Thornton Limited
Green Reit PLC
Greenfield Global Limited
Grid Network Services Ireland
GW Plastics Limited
Hines
Irish Asphalt Limited
Irish Water
JJ Rhatigan
John Paul Construction Limited
John Sisk (Holdings) Limited
JSL Group (Stewart Construction)
K&J Townmore Construction Limited
Kane Group Building Services Limited
Kerrigan Sheanon Newman
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Lagan Clare Joint Venture
Lagan Holdings
Laing O’Rourke Ireland Limited
Lugus Capital Advisors
Macquarie
Marathon Asset Management
Marchford Limited
Marlet
McKeon Group
Michael Slattery & Associates
Midland Construction & Engineering Limited
MMD Construction Limited
Multi Ireland
Murphy International Limited
Mythen Construction
New Century Engineering Limited
Newmarket RVAM No 2 Limited
Oaktree Capital Management Limited
Obrascon Huarte Lain SA
Passage Healthcare
PJ Hegarty & Sons
Precision Construction Limited
Regan Civil Engineering Limited
Sisk Steconfer JV
Somague Engenharia SA
St Stephen’s Green Funds ICAV
Tifco Limited
Townlink Construction Limited
Transdev Ireland
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Tristan Capital Partners LLP
Ulster Bank
Vision Contracting Limited
Walls Construction Limited
Wills Bros Civil Engineering Limited
Zhol Sapa LLP
BCP Asset Management
Dublin Aerospace Limited
Hogan Lovells (Paris) Limited
Revelate Capital Limited
Sanigest International
TJ O’Connor & Associates
Twin Point Capital
Muckle LLP
Quinn Industrial Holdings DAC
Palm Capital Partners
Rhatigan OHL Limited
Alucraft Limited
Henderson Park
Work highlights
- Advised Tristan Capital Partners on the acquisition and development of multiple high-profile private rental sector apartment schemes.
- Advised Avestus on the acquisition of numerous apartment schemes spread across Co Dublin.
- Advised Oaktree Capital in relation to the acquisition of Nama’s interest in the Irish Glass Bottle plant site in Poolbeg, Dublin.
Matheson
The construction practice at Matheson is highly active in the private rental space, advising developers on the construction and forward sale of large developments. The team is also regularly instructed by corporations, including prominent multinationals, to advise on the acquisition and fit out of office space, and acts alongside the firm’s finance and real estate teams to provide due diligence on the financing of projects and transactions involving project assets. Rhona Henry has experience in the financing and construction of complex developments; she leads the team with highly regarded litigator Nicola Dunleavy SC, who leads on construction disputes. Kimberley Masuda is noted for her strength in forward funding and forward purchase agreements, as well as for her work for clients in the healthcare sector.
Practice head(s):
Rhona Henry; Nicola Dunleavy SC
Other key lawyers:
Kimberley Masuda
Testimonials
‘A very experienced and qualified team that has significant experience in all construction matters. The team has a great mix of senior and junior individuals and has a strong relationship with Matheson’s real estate team to ensure continuity and consistency across instructions.’
‘Kimberley Masuda is a superbly commercial and diligent partner who makes the time for her clients on a large and small instructions. Kimberley is a qualified architect and it really shows in her knowledge of construction contracts and construction risk-related matters.’
‘We have always considered Matheson to be best in class for all real estate and construction matters in Ireland. They have an incredible range and depth of expertise in their teams and they always provide comprehensive, coherent and considered legal advice and have never been afraid to provide commercial and practical guidance whenever requested. Some of their key strengths are the quality of their advice and their in-depth knowledge of our business and the issues they know are important to us. We have never had an issue with Matheson on fees or budget. They always provide incredibly comprehensive and well-thought-through fee quotes and have always been very willing to discuss and address any budget delivery queries that we may have.’
‘Rhona Henry is an industry expert in all things construction related and we work very closely with Kimberley Masuda on a number of our large-scale construction projects in Dublin. Both Rhona and Kimberley are excellent lawyers and have an innate ability to condense incredibly complex and contentious issues into digestible, pragmatic legal and commercial advice.’
‘Excellent personal service.’
‘We value their availability and depth of knowledge.’
‘A very professional, client-focused, results-driven practice.’
‘They provide clear, concise advise on relevant matters without sitting on the fence’
Key clients
AM Alpha
Aramark Corporation
Brown-Forman Corporation
Cardinal
CLH Aviation
Gallico Developments
Killiney Estates Limited
Oxley Holdings Limited
Saint-Gobain Weber Limited
SSE plc
Sisk Group
Tenable
Tudor Homes
Park Developments
Round Hill Capital
Hines
Google Ireland Limited
Horizon Therapeutics PLC
Work highlights
- Advising Google on the development of the entire Boland’s Quay scheme in Dublin Docklands, which will comprise residential, retail, office and cultural space and will have room for 2,500 workers.
- Advised AM Alpha on the acquisition of property at Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin, from TIO South Docks Fund II Limited, which comprises 92,600 sq ft of partially occupied grade A office space distributed across two blocks.
Philip Lee LLP
Philip Lee is experienced in advising on the construction of projects across sectors including energy, education, residential property and healthcare, with expertise in non-contentious construction matters as well as disputes. The practice assists developers and contractors with the drafting and negotiation of contracts; it also advises public bodies on the procurement process for developments, with Kerri Crossen focusing on this area. The team is jointly led by Angelyn Rowan, who specialises in non-contentious work, and Clare Cashin, who is adept at handling construction adjudications and mediations. Hugh Cummins is praised by clients for his commercial advice, advising clients on the drafting of construction documentation.
Practice head(s):
Angelyn Rowan; Clare Cashin
Other key lawyers:
Kerri Crossen; Hugh Cummins; Laura Mullen
Testimonials
‘Kerri Crossen is very invested in her clients and as such provides a highly personalised service designed to fully meet her client’s needs. Kerri has significant knowledge and expertise and is aware of developments in the construction sector that may need to be factored into the advice provided. She brought a common-sense approach to her advice, which was particularly invaluable during a time when the rule book was changing due to operating in a pandemic. She is responsive and always available, providing thoughtful, well-considered advice that she is sure her clients understand the implications of.’
‘There is direct contact with the principles of the practice at all times, and they manage relationships very well. On top of that they are able to react to situations as they evolve. They have a strength and depth in their partners and the expert services they can provide to react to any given situation that is second to none.’
‘Very competent, each lawyer has their own unique area of expertise and the practice allocates the partners depending on the detail of any given situation, sometimes even allocating two or more different partners to various aspects of the same case if that is the best way of achieving a result.’
‘Hugh Cummins is an excellent lawyer who provides a great service. He has huge knowledge and commercial pragmatism and will spare no effort to get the right solution.’
‘Angelyn Rowan is highly knowledgeable and provides top-class strategic advice on complex construction matters.’
‘Angelyn Rowan is a very capable practitioner.’
‘The firm provides full contentious and non-contentious legal services delivered by a diverse team. When faced with multiple complex legal arguments on a major dispute, the firm was able to mobilise a team of experienced lawyers at short notice to prepare and successfully present rebuttals.’
‘In addition to being competent and confident lawyers, the individuals were approachable and personable and provided us with confidence.’
Key clients
Health Service Executive
Scottish Renewables
JJ Rhatigan
Ronan Group Real Estate
Airbnb
KC Capital Property Group
McGarrell Reilly
Kimpton Vale
First Step Homes
Bank of Ireland
O’Flynn Construction
CBRE
Sisk Group
Trinity College
National University Ireland – Galway
National Treasury Management Agency
Dublin City Council
South Dublin County Council
Port of Cork
Kilkenny County Council
Work highlights
- Advising Ronan Group Real Estate on the construction law aspects of some of the largest private sector developments in Ireland in recent years.
- Advising Trinity College Dublin on high-value construction claims advanced by a contractor doing significant building works for the university’s Printing House Square.
- Advising McGarrell Reilly on all the construction aspects of a site at Charlemont Street, Dublin, which comprises a significant commercial development along with a retail and social housing element.
Ronan Daly Jermyn LLP
Ronan Daly Jermyn LLP assists with construction projects across a range of sectors, including education, residential property, healthcare and industry. The practice advises property developers, corporations and public bodies on the drafting of project documentation; it is also instructed on disputes, where it acts for developers, contractors and underwriters in court proceedings and arbitration. Practice head Finola McCarthy has recently been instructed on complex projects including energy developments. Donal Twomey is noted for his strength in litigation, including representing contractors facing prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive. Alison Bearpark is another key figure in the practice, with a varied practice across contentious and non-contentious matters.
Practice head(s):
Finola McCarthy
Other key lawyers:
Donal Twomey; Alison Bearpark
Testimonials
‘What stands out about the team is their understanding of clients’ needs, quality of advice and efficiency of service. Alison Bearpark provides invaluable advice which combines legal expertise and commercial reality.’
‘Finola McCarthy is incredibly experienced and really understands our business. She always delivers a first-class service to us.’
‘Finola McCarthy’s personable and collegial approach is really effective when managing a large group of diverse stakeholders.’
‘All of our experiences and interactions with Ronan Daly Jermyn have been positive ones for our business. The firm has smart, savvy lawyers who not only have a broad understanding of the sectors they advise on but also a really good commercial acumen and business sense. They understand how the legal issues and advice they give impact on our business and work really hard to fully understand the rationale behind our business decisions. The legal advice is never given in a vacuum and always takes account of the commercial perspective.’
‘Finola McCarthy has a superb grasp of the legal issues in the construction area. She provides us with really solid and well-thought-out advice.’
‘I found Alison Bearpark excellent. She was extremely helpful in explaining complex elements of the contract in understandable terms. Her advice was sound and overall she was very efficient, accessible and responsive.’
‘The team are very strong in this area and very receptive to their clients’ needs. They combine their specialist knowledge with a pragmatic approach to give their clients the best outcome.’
‘Finola MacCarthy is a very wise and experienced construction lawyer. Finola is very easy to deal with and very effective at what she does, combining her specialist skills with a pragmatic approach. Alison Bearpark is very professional and provides an excellent client service.’
Key clients
Bon Secours Health System
O’Callaghan Properties
Donegal County Council/Roads Management Office
Kilkenny Abbey Quarter Development Limited
University of Limerick
Cork County GAA Board
Trean Meadow Limited
Infrared Properties
Brookfield Renewable Ireland Limited
Allied Irish Bank
Work highlights
- Advising University College Dublin on Phase 1 of the Future Campus project, which involves the development of a new academic space at the entrance to UCD, comprising a Centre for Creativity and a Centre for Future Learning.
- Advising Bon Secours Health System on the development of a new 150-bed hospital on a seven-acre green field site in Limerick City, involving an overall investment of €140m.
- Advising Ortec Inc, a custom chemical manufacturing and research company based in the US, on the construction of its new facility in Ireland.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard entered the market in 2022 following its merger with Eugene F. Collins. The team advises project developers, contractors and funders on contentious and non-contentious construction matters. The practice is highly active in the real estate sector and particularly the social housing space, where it counts a number of prominent approved housing bodies among its clients. Margaret Austin leads the practice and has more than 25 years’ experience in this sector. The team also has a strong bench of associates, with Finola Igoe focusing on construction-related disputes while Siobhan Kenny has a broad practice encompassing contract drafting and negotiation as well as litigation.
Practice head(s):
Margaret Austin
Other key lawyers:
Finola Igoe; Siobhan Kenny; Kevin Sheedy
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge of current case law in our area of interest and a proactive team.’
‘Margaret Austin is a great team leader with a practical approach.’
‘They have a wealth of experience across a number of team members and there is always someone available for advice.’
‘We recommend Siobhan Kenny and Margaret Austin.’
‘The team have an in-depth knowledge of the construction sector and are very experienced.’
‘Siobhan Kenny is excellent to deal with and very experienced.’
‘The team has been working with our company for some time on construction projects. The team specialise in public works projects. We wouldn’t use anyone else for this work.’
‘Margaret Austin is our main partner contract and she knows the system inside out. She has also been very helpful in assisting with contract disputes. She is always at the end of the line and available to deal with queries and questions. Kevin Sheedy deals with the funding side and his work has been excellent.’
Key clients
South County Property Investments Limited
Allied Irish Banks plc
Bank of Ireland
Fold Housing Association Ireland Limited, CLG
Túath Housing Association
CA Ventures
Sophia Housing Association
O’Callaghan Hotels Group
National Asset Management Agency
Townlink Construction Limited
Mercury (Engineering)
Work highlights
- Advised CA Ventures on its multimillion-euro development of a 600-bed student accommodation scheme at Carrigrohane Road, Cork.
- Advised South County Property Investments on negotiating and entering into a lease and development agreement in respect of a corporate HQ for a multinational company in Ireland.
- Advised Fold Housing Association CLG on the development and acquisition of a block of 22 residential apartment units at The Mews in Citywest, Dublin, which was financed by European Investment Bank funds.
Beale & Co LLP
Beale & Co LLP is noted for its expertise in construction disputes, acting for consulting engineers, designers, architects and contractors in high-profile litigation. The practice is currently engaged in matters involving allegations of defects, breaches of fire safety regulations, cost overruns and noise complaints, among other issues. The team is jointly led by Tara Cosgrove, Niamh Loughran, Sarah Conroy and Killian Dorney.
Practice head(s):
Tara Cosgrove; Niamh Loughran; Sarah Conroy; Killian Dorney
Other key lawyers:
Feena Robinson; Martin Browne
Testimonials
‘As a specialist law firm, Beale & Co have particular expertise in their chosen sectors. They have a strong team locally who possess a very good understanding of professional liability exposure and the particular needs of those operating within the construction industry. They adopt a very collaborative approach and are dedicated to serving their clients’ interests at all times. As disputes become increasingly complex, they have demonstrated an ability to distil the issues and help clients through what can be a difficult and challenging process.’
‘We work closely with Tara Cosgrove, who has a wealth of experience in dispute resolution. Tara has an ability to bring clarity to some complex legal issues and is highly regarded as a very competent, personable and trustworthy solicitor. Sarah Conroy, Killian Dorney and Martin Browne are also very capable solicitors who adopt a sensible and pragmatic approach to litigation. They understand the need to support clients through the litigation process and are always on hand to offer assistance.’
‘Killian Dorney very quickly got to grips with our requirements, was very clear and concise in his recommendations, and worked efficiently with all the specialists in our team. He quickly and concisely set out the information required to enable him to develop and present our case. His cost and time projections were very accurate, and the company billed monthly and with full detail as I requested.’
‘They have a niche offering in the construction sector and are more agile than other larger firms in this sector. The team stands out for its quick response times, availability almost on demand and genuine interest in helping to resolve our issues.’
‘Tara Cosgrove and Sarah Conroy were particularly good. They both displayed a detailed understanding of the construction industry, and were excellent at communicating the legal implications to construction professionals who did not have a legal background and always available when issues arose at short notice.’
‘Very attentive to the concerns being raised and clearly articulate the issues and their potential solution. Killian Dorney is accessible and approachable.’
‘The team at Beale’s Dublin office has provided us with an excellent professional service in the areas of construction-related professional indemnity claims. The strengths of the team include its availability and engagement, appropriate levels of resourcing and overall case management, coupled with the ability to understand complex technical and commercial issues.’
‘Tara Cosgrove, Sarah Conroy, Killian Dorney, Feena Robinson, Niamh Loughran and the rest of the team provided clear legal advice grounded in a deep knowledge and understanding of the construction sector. The individual service provided was always professional and efficient and the team members involved supported and guided us through the legal processes involved.’
Key clients
Arup Consulting Engineers
Tetra Tech
McCullough Mulvin
Punch Consulting
O’Connor Sutton Cronin
Tobin Consulting Engineers
The Association of Consulting Engineers
RPS Consulting Engineers
MACE
O’Mahony Pike
LK Shields Solicitors LLP
LK Shields Solicitors LLP acts for a wide range of parties in the construction space, including developers, contractors and sub-contractors. The team advises on key documentation in the construction process, including design, supply, construction and installation contracts for a range of projects. In addition, the team assists corporations with the construction and fit out of office space. The practice also handles breach of contract disputes, representing developers and suppliers. The team is led by Richard Curran, and is supported by Jamie Ritchie and litigator Ian Lavelle.
Practice head(s):
Richard Curran
Other key lawyers:
Jamie Ritchie; Ian Lavelle
Testimonials
‘The team’s local and international experience provides the perfect blend of knowledge for any serious operator in the Irish market.’
‘Jamie Ritchie’s background in construction and his flawless legal knowledge provides the prefect alchemy for astute legal and commercial advice. Ian Lavelle is a particularly astute commercial operator whose focus on the detail provides for the most advantageous outcome in a dispute.’
‘Well connected in the Irish construction market.’
‘Jamie Ritchie is well informed, and one of the rare construction specialists. He does what he says he’ll do.’
‘The quality of work and service received from Jamie Ritchie and his team is second to none. Jamie is a very thorough practitioner and can quickly understand and grasp any of the issues presented to him. He understands the legal and commercial considerations and how they play off against each other to ensure that the desired results are achieved. In addition to the quality of legal advice received, the manner in which he approaches things strikes a great balance between legal professionalism and straightforward communication. He can make complex and sometimes daunting legal matters simple and digestible.’
‘LK Shields have an extremely strong construction practice. I have had the pleasure of instructing them on matters that require input on the law of both Ireland and Northern Ireland and have worked with their team seamlessly.’
‘Jamie Ritchie is outstanding and my go-to Irish construction lawyer. His depth of knowledge and passion for the topic is second to none.’
‘First class. Jamie Ritchie is approachable, intelligent and will fight, holding back no punches, to get results for his clients.’
Key clients
McMahon Design and Management Limited
CareChoice
Crane Hire Limited
Manufacturing Conglomerate
October Investments
InfraVia Capital Partners
Crosslane
Ameresco
Seabased
Coillte
Work highlights
- Acting for CareChoice in relation to its ambitious rollout of new build and extension projects.
- Retained by sub-sea specialist engineering firm McMahon Design and Management in relation to Irish subsea projects.
- Advising a global manufacturing and production conglomerate on matters arising out of the main engineering, procurement and construction management agreement for a new 330,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Co Kildare.