On Thursday, 8th May, 10 students from Monaghan Institute, studying Architecture Technology & Design and Renewable Construction Technology, visited the Slí Lorcáin social housing development site. The visit, facilitated by main contractor GEDA Construction in partnership with Monaghan County Council, provided the students with an invaluable real-world insight into the construction process from start to finish.
Accompanied by their lecturers, Michael McGrath & John Devine, the students received a comprehensive presentation from members of the GEDA site team, project partners and key subcontractors, each offering perspectives directly relevant to the students’ fields of study. Following the presentation, the group embarked on a guided tour of the active site, where they had the opportunity to observe various stages of the construction process firsthand.
Michael McGrath, Lecturer at Monaghan Institute stated, “It is so important for students to be able to gain a firsthand visual insight into the real world of construction away from Google and textbook. Through GEDA’s team, students received a professional and tailored itinerary on site, which provided an invaluable experience and insight into their future career paths within the everchanging construction industry.”
The site visit facilitated by GEDA provided an invaluable hands-on experience for Monaghan Institute students to see the construction phase, from how a project starts to when it is handed over. The site tour enabled students to engage with industry professionals, ask detailed technical questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the practical application of their coursework.
Lorcán MacCinna, Senior Executive Engineer at Monaghan County Council, added, “Construction firms bringing value to the local community is essential for the sustainable growth and development of our region. The visit reflects GEDA’s ongoing dedication to fostering the next generation of industry professionals and highlights the company’s commitment to community engagement and education.”
Damian Murray, Director of GEDA’s Build Team, commented on the visit, saying, “We were delighted to partner with Monaghan Institute to give their construction students a real-world site experience on their doorstep. It was particularly insightful for the students to receive a detailed lesson from Ray Hughes of local timber frame manufacturer IJM and design guidance from Kieran O’Reilly of CS Pringle Architects in Castleblayney. The students also got an insight into the administration of a contract from Peter McGonigle of Craft Studio based in Monaghan.”
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council said “We are committed to not only delivering quality housing but also creating opportunities for learning and innovation in our communities. The collaboration between GEDA Construction, Monaghan Institute, and our Housing Section at the Slí Lorcáin site exemplifies how we can open up the construction process to inspire and educate the next generation. It is heartening to see future industry professionals gaining real insight into how homes are built—right here in Monaghan. These connections between education and live infrastructure projects are vital to nurturing local talent and ensuring a resilient future for our county.”
GEDA have been delivering projects in Monaghan for nearly 30 years, facilitating a multitude of residential build projects such as Rosevale, Knocktornagh, Coill Darach in Castleblayney and Cathedral walk in Monaghan as well as the iconic Aviemore House on Hill St. Between tendered work and self-generated sites, GEDA is proud to have delivered over almost 400 homes within the County over recent years and are in the process of generating another 120 homes in various towns across Monaghan for 2026
The Slí Lorcáin project is set to complete at the end of this year, bringing much-needed social housing to Monaghan town.
