Hardware Matters EP6

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) is the main driving force behind retrofit in Ireland. Roisin talks to Dr Ciaran Byrne who’s Director of National Retrofit with SEAI. Ciaran talks about the penalties Ireland may face for not reaching national targets, the difficulty in finding contractors to do the work, and some of the schemes that are available for homeowners – for instance the pilot scheme for traditional homes which allows the use of not certified insulation material like sheep’s wool.

Ted Laverty, founder of website, Onlinetradesmen.ie discusses the shortage of skilled labour in the construction industry. Ted suggests changes that should be made to the way apprenticeships work. He believes low pay early on in the career of an apprentice acts as a deterrent to many.

Derek Deasy is Sales Manager with Hultafors Group LTD. He talks to Roisin about how workwear has changed through the years. For instance, where heavy footwear made of steel was once commonplace, nowadays comfort, durability and safety are all important factors.

PRESENTER/RESEARCHER: Roisin Murphy PRODUCER: Fergus Sweeney EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Paul Allen