Pyrite found at Limerick's council headquarters

PYRITE, which can cause the walls of buildings to crack open, has been discovered at Limerick City and County Council's headquarters.

The local authority has announced that work will be taking place at its main building in Merchant's Quay in the city centre following the discovery of the material.

In a statement, a council spokesperson said structural engineers have been monitoring the facade of the building for some time following test results of the walls and floors "which which indicate the presence of pyrite in a few locations."

To ensure the building continues to be safe to use, council has put in place a regime of regular inspections and monitoring procedures, following the advice of its engineers, to report any deterioration of concern to ensure repairs or protective measures are arranged promptly. 

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The local authority says these works will lead to improved building energy performance, the upgrade of fire protection and ventillation systems, while bathroom, shower and kitchen facilities will be upgrades.

Redecoration will also take place, while extra bike parking and EV charging facilities will take place.

The selection of consultants will begin shortly to carry out these works, and it's not anticipated there will be any major disruption.