• 22 Oct 2023

Minister Ossian Smyth visits Kilsaran

(l-r) Eftim Ivanoff, Senator Vincent Martin, Bernie Kiely, Sean Keohane, Minister Smyth, David McKeown, Laura Johnson, Ken Mulkerrins, Derek Duffy
(l-r) Eftim Ivanoff, Senator Vincent Martin, Bernie Kiely, Sean Keohane, Minister Smyth, David McKeown, Laura Johnson, Ken Mulkerrins, Derek Duffy
(l-r) Eftim Ivanoff, Senator Vincent Martin, Bernie Kiely, Sean Keohane, Minister Smyth, David McKeown, Laura Johnson, Ken Mulkerrins, Derek Duffy

Ossian Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications embarked on a visit to Kilsaran's facility in Brownstown, Co. Kildare recently. The purpose of the visit was to emphasise the significant potential of utilising recycled aggregates in construction projects, while also reaffirming the government's dedication to promoting a sustainable circular economy.

During the visit, Minister Smyth, who was joined by Senator Vincent P. Martin and Bernie Kiely, Principal Officer Circular Economy Materials Management, was given a comprehensive overview of Kilsaran's capability to produce high-quality recycled aggregates. Kilsaran employ innovative technology to process and refine recycled materials, contributing to the reduction of waste and the preservation of natural resources.

Minister Smyth praised Kilsaran for its dedication to sustainability and its innovative approach to resource management. The company's commitment to recycling and reusing materials aligns with the government's broader objectives to reduce environmental impact and promote economic growth.

Kilsaran have demonstrated its commitment to addressing the environmental and social challenges faced by the construction sector by establishing a dedicated Research & Innovation team and publishing an ESG and Responsible Business strategy document,

Kilsaran Co-CEO, David McKeown, expressed gratitude for the minister's visit, stating, ‘We are honoured to have Minister Smyth visit our facility in Kildare. Our mission has always been to lead by example when it comes to sustainable practices in our industry. We believe that recycling and using recycled aggregates are essential steps towards a greener and more prosperous future. It is encouraging to see the government's commitment to this cause‘.

The visit also included a discussion between Minister Smyth and David McKeown on potential policy initiatives to further promote the use of recycled aggregates in construction projects across the country. Both parties agreed that collaboration between government and industry is crucial in achieving the shared goal of a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.