Sod Turning Marks Start of Construction on Macroom Garda Divisional Headquarters

Macroom, Co. Cork – 20th February 2026. 

A sod turning ceremony was held today to officially mark the commencement of construction works on the new Macroom Garda Divisional Headquarters, a major public infrastructure project being delivered in partnership with the Office of Public Works (OPW). 

The event was attended by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan TD; Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran; An Garda Síochána Commissioner Justin Kelly and Chief Executive Officer of JJ Rhatigan & Company, Ger Ronayne, the main contractor appointed to deliver the project. 

 Delivered in partnership with the Office of Public Works, this important development will provide a modern, purpose-built facility for An Garda Síochána, enhancing operational capacity and supporting Macroom and the wider Cork community. 

The project is being delivered by a multidisciplinary team led by the OPW and the M& E design delivered by their in-house team. Architectural design and project management by Pascall + Watson, construction by JJ Rhatigan & Company, civil & structural design by Tobin Consulting Engineers, Quantity Surveying by Cumming Group, Fire consultancy by Arup and Project Supervisor Design Process services provided by Occupli. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Ger Ronayne, CEO of JJ Rhatigan & Company, said: 

“Today marks an important milestone as construction officially begins on the Macroom Garda Divisional Headquarters. This project reflects a strong partnership between all stakeholders, and we’re proud to bring our experience in delivering complex public buildings to this development. Our team is focused on creating a modern, high-quality facility that supports An Garda Síochána and serves the local community for many years to come. On behalf of everyone at JJ Rhatigan & Company, I’d like to thank the OPW and all stakeholders for their confidence in our team. We look forward to progressing works safely, efficiently, and in close partnership with all involved.” 

Minister Jim O’Callaghan welcomed the start of construction, highlighting the importance of continued investment in Garda infrastructure to support frontline policing and community safety, while Minister Kevin Moran noted the project’s role in strengthening public services and contributing positively to the local economy. 

Construction works are now underway, with the OPW managing project delivery and JJ Rhatigan & Company leading construction on site. The development is expected to generate local employment during the build phase and will deliver a state-of-the-art Garda facility upon completion.