Four Ministers gather at Mount Lucas for action plan launch
The National Construction Training Campus in Mount Lucas was the host of a major Government event today (Monday) with the launch of the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Action Plan — a bold and coordinated step forward in how Ireland addresses its housing challenges.
The launch was led by four Government Ministers: Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke and Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education Marian Harkin.
Offaly TD Tony McCormack, who attended the event, welcomed the cross-government approach and emphasised the importance of collaboration to deliver real, lasting impact.
“This Action Plan shows what can be achieved when departments, agencies, and local representatives work together. I’m proud to be working closely with my ministerial colleagues to ensure Offaly and the Midlands are front and centre in delivering housing and creating skilled jobs,” said Deputy McCormack.
The MMC Action Plan sets out 58 concrete actions aimed at transforming how homes are built in Ireland — with a focus on off-site construction, digital tools, and sustainability. Crucially, it includes measures to upskill existing workers, support new entrants to the construction sector, and help enterprises transition to modern methods.
“Whether it's working with Minister Lawless on skills and education, Minister Browne on housing delivery, or Minister Burke on enterprise supports, I’m making sure Offaly’s voice is heard at every table,” McCormack added.
The Mount Lucas campus, operated by Laois and Offaly ETB, provided the ideal setting to showcase Ireland’s readiness for this transformation. Visitors had the chance to see cutting-edge training facilities, hear from leading experts, and view live demonstrations of MMC in action.
“Mount Lucas is proof that we don’t need to look abroad for innovation. The talent, the tools, and the training are already here in Offaly,” said McCormack.
The event highlighted a unified government commitment to accelerating housing delivery through smarter building methods — a move that also supports environmental goals, local economies, and workforce development.
“My focus is on results: homes for our families, jobs for our people, and a future built on innovation. I’ll continue to work side-by-side with my Government colleagues to make that happen.”