Liz O’COnneLL | Relationship ManageR

suite 1, Áras smith o’Brien, Phone +353 (0) 65 6897979

Bank place, ennis, email info@eko.ie

Co. Clare, ireland. Website www.eko.ie

- a natural place to work

Project Capability Document

‘Welcome to Crannóg, a

bold new step in creating an

uplifting work environment

that will focus bright minds

and channel productive

energies.

In the following document

we hope to give the reader

a real sense of why this

location should be seriously

considered as a place to

live and work while optimising

the needs of the company

it supports.’eugene Keane, CeO eKO integrated Services

Microsemi

‘Even though we are substantially a manufacturing site, more than half of our workforce have third level degrees... I have no doubt that gives us a competitive edge.’Richard Finn | Vice President Group Operations & General Manager

Microsemi ireland

Microsemi – makers of power semi-conductors for high value

niche markets employing 270 people in Ennis, Co. Clare.

Microsemi is listed on the Nasdaq, has over $1 billion turnover

and the Ennis office is hotly tipped to be Microsemi’s new

European Headquarters.

Crannóg story is one with a difference...

It is inspired by a team with a vision to create a natural workspace that will revolutionise

the way in which we work. The well-being of people is at its philosophical core creating

inspiration and productivity for its workforce. Ultra modern in design, Crannóg is infused

with an identity that connects the past to the future with green energy its raison d’etre.

The proposed building is light-filled, airy, aesthetically pleasing, yet functional, versatile

and free-flowing. Strategically located close to the university cities of Limerick and

Galway, Crannóg has easy access to road, rail and international air connectivity. In

the heart of the Atlantic Technology Corridor, the Shannon Energy Valley and business

clusters, it potentially stands on its own landscaped site of 13 acres.

High calibre local graduates are diverse, committed and in supply. The nearby

universities have excellent teaching reputations and are focused on innovation and

industry-led research and development. In addition the country’s tax regime is highly

attractive with a range of tax credits and provisions on offer to corporations wishing to

set-up in the region.

Quality of life abounds. Ennis is a bustling town steeped in history and culture. It has a

lifestyle appeal for families and individuals, with modern educational, cultural, leisure

and business facilities. Its spectacular hinterland is within a 30 minute drive from the

Atlantic coast, has superb attractions, signature designed golf courses and traditional

music imbued in its psyche.

Key to Crannóg story is the passion, integrity and expertise of the EKO team. We

facilitate every step of the way through to turnkey delivery with a value for money

approach and low risk options. Committed to green energy and sustainable design,

EKO will work with you to realise and hand over a world class facility that will inspire

your future success.

[ 1 ]

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GALWAY

DOOLIN

BALLYVAUGHAN

KILLALOE

LIMERICK CITY

MOUNTSHANNON

TULLA

DROMOLAND CASTLE

BUNRATTYCASTLE

Shannon Airport

Ennis

ShannonRiver

N18

GALWAY CITY

GALWAY

CLARE

LIMERICK

TIPPERARY

LAHINCH

N24

GORT

N18

NUIG

GMIT

UL

LIT

ARAN ISLANDS

KILRUSH

KILKEE

DOONBEG GOLF CLUB

Car Ferry

Route From Galway

Route From Limerick & Ennis

Golfing

KERRY

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P

P

P

Gort Rd

N18 Bypass

SCARRIFF

BODYKE

Strategic Location

Crannóg Centre is located on a 13.201 acre greenfield

site on the northern outskirts of Ennis, the administrative

capital and county town of Clare. Although set in alluring

landscape in an area once known as the field of the elm

trees, bordered to the west by the scenic Ballyalla Lake and

to the north west by hilly pastures and dense woodlands,

it is within earshot of the bustle and hum of a large vibrant

urban town.

Immediately close to other business parks, Crannóg Centre

forms part of a community of diverse business outlets and

offices yet potentially stands on its own extensive landscaped

grounds in a contempory architecturally designed campus.

It has ease of access and car parking and is removed from

the pressures of traffic queues and back ups.

‘Ireland means business for the world with 960 foreign companies employing 135,000 workers.’

Mid-west of Ireland

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Located on the R458 secondary road between

Ennis and Barefield, the Centre is within a two

minute drive of the Limerick, Shannon, Ennis,

Galway motorway, an infrastructure that has

dramatically improved in recent years. The new

675 metre Limerick Tunnel under the River Shannon

and forming part of the N18 on the southern ring

route has improved access times for commuters to

Shannon Airport, Galway, Dublin and Cork.

Crannóg Centre’s strategic location is enhanced

by its central position between the two urban

nuclei of Limerick and Galway both wonderfully

served by Universities and Third Level Institutes and

supported by high quality research centres and

specialist business incubation units.

The site is owned by a consortium managed by

EKO Integrated Services.

It is also central to the Shannon Energy Valley, an evolving hub for a world class cluster of

sustainable energy related activities. The Shannon Region is primed for this initiative based

on large-scale coal, oil and gas generating stations along with excellent grid connectivitiy

infrastructure already in place and a liquid gas terminal under construction. In addition by

2020 a €10 billion investment in windfarms in Ireland will mostly be evident within one hour of

the Shannon Energy Valley.

The centre is within minutes drive from Business Parks in Ennis and Shannon, where the Shannon

Free Zone accommodates over 100 companies employing over 6,000 people returning an

annual sales figure of €3bn. Crannóg Centre is situated within the Atlantic Technology Corridor

whose focus is to amass clusters of enterprises with international linkages and at its core is the

economic growth and development of the Mid-west of Ireland region.

Crannóg Centre is within a 15 minute drive from Shannon International Airport providing

regular access to the UK, Europe and the USA. Shannon Airport is the first airport in the world to

offer full US Customs & Border Protection (CBP) pre-clearance facilities to airlines travelling to

the USA and is aiming to achieve a refuelling and pre-clearance turn around time of 1 hour for

private jets. Crannóg Centre is also near Ennis Railway station with direct services to Limerick

and Galway and connecting services to Dublin, Cork and other parts of Ireland.

Half of the world’s fleet of leased aircraft are managed from Ireland

It is also central to the Shannon Energy Valley, an evolving hub for a world class cluster of sustainable energy related activities.

[ 4 ] [ 5 ]

vision

Vision & Philosophy

The vision for Crannóg Centre is to create a state of the art building for a high

end working community and a centre of excellence for a cluster of similar type

operations with research facilities and supports, generating new business and an

enhanced econony for the town of Ennis and Co. Clare. The project concept is

to develop a sustainable centre with work and office space powered by green

electricity generated by wind and bio-mass. Rain water harvesting is a condition of

the planning permission.

Its location in a suitable climate, cooled by the Atlantic winds, supports the

sustainable dimension of the project and the harvesting of abundant natural

resources. It also has easy access to appropriately qualified graduates, reputable

academic research centres and benefits from being at the centre of a green

energy hub.

the concept is to develop a sustainable centre with work and office space powered by green electricity generated by wind and bio-mass.

Rooted in the philosophy of people first and sensitive to

the environment and the site’s historical heritage, the

focus of the building design is to create an aesthetic and

functional space that is both inspiring and productive.

Light filled with natural ventilation the vision is to optimise

the internal and external environment that can generate

within it a proactive and successful business dynamic in

both planned and informal spaces.

At Crannóg the philosophy is simply ‘people first’

A large scale plan, the potential measurements of the

building are 266,776 ft2. In addition to its scale and high

quality design the plan can be tailored to suit clients’

needs. The master plan is flexible with the option to adapt

units or blocks as required. Our focus is to provide clean,

safe and healthy employee work spaces with sustainable

materials and eco friendly components. The site has full

planning permits and consents from the local authority.

It has excellent road frontage appropriately distanced

from the R458 road from Ennis to Barefield.

[ 6 ] [ 7 ]

de

sign

Crannóg Centre is close to the site of a ‘Fulacht Fiadh’ (Hunters

Cooking Site) used by hunting parties from the early Bronze Age

right up to the Elizabethan period. A rectangular hole was dug in

low-lying land where water was easily accessible. This was clad on

four sides with wooden sections. Stones heated on the campfire

were then used to boil the water in the wooden trough. A joint of

meat, usually venison, was then wrapped in straw and put into the

boiling water and cooked for a designated period.

No other direct evidence of settlement or notable feature is

recorded on the site but on adjacent lands there is evidence of

Crannóg settlements. Crannógs were used as dwellings over five

millennia from the Neolithic period in Europe to as late as the

17th/early 18th century. The design of the development takes into

account the connection with these features while sensitively and

seamlessly incorporating the facilities into the site.

Respect for the land and the site was a priority from the beginning

and recognition of its heritage underpinned Crannóg development.

An archaeologist was engaged at an early stage of design to

honour its ancient heritage. Likewise, a Shaman was engaged

to align the natural energy of the site in preparation for the new

buildings. As one of the oldest traditions on earth, Shamanism helps

us to connect to nature, the energy of the earth and the deepest

part of our beings.

‘Ennis is potentially one of the

strongest FDI locations in the West

of Ireland. Value for money, a

dynamic workforce, state of the art

facilities, R&D capability and energy

initiatives give Ennis an edge

that is hard to beat but it is the

willingness of authorities, agencies

and the business communities to

welcome, encourage and assist

FDI in Ennis, that a company

considering relocation will find most

compelling.’Rita Mcinerney | CeO, ennis Chamber of Commerce

[ 8 ] [ 9 ]

Design & Facil it ies

Crannóg design is about visibility onto a public road from all buildings while those

at the rear perimeter of the site are back dropped by an elevated hill. Blocks “A”

and “E” are the bookends of the development and each has glazed elevations

facing the road and site itself. Each of these blocks are three storeys in height

and will be constructed around central stair and lift cores leaving all office areas

with the advantage of perimeter glazing.

the building stretches to four storeys with cantilevered floor plates over a central courtyard and a large external balcony to a penthouse office suite.

Block “D” is the largest block on the site extending to 135,333 ft2 and is

partially glazed from floor to ceiling. This block is split by a semi external

stairway leading to a separate access on each floor level potentially

allowing for the sub-division of departments/businesses. On the left of

this stair core, the building stretches to four storeys with cantilevered

floor plates over the central courtyard and a large external balcony to

the fourth floor penthouse office suite. The main restaurant/café for the

development will be named “Fulacht Fiadh” and can be positioned in

this block.

To the right of the featured external stairway are three storeys of space

with sufficient access, glazing and ceiling heights to allow for almost any

configuration of office, laboratory or workspace. The featured stairway

continues to the third level from where the fourth floor is accessed

internally by lift and stairs. From this third level a glazed sky-walk is designed

(if required) leading to Block “C” and the stairway itself is crossed over at

third floor level with another glazed skyway visible on the front elevation.

Block “C” extends to 35,083 ft2 and currently is proposed to be a large

box type structure extending to 39.37 ft in height with a glazed elevation

facing onto the courtyard and excellent rear access for delivery of large

or bulky goods. This building could be used as a data centre and can also

be extended to the adjoining Block “B” if necessary.

site plan

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sign

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sign

Block “B” is one of the main architectural features of the

development. A 30 ft high glazed curved elevation with a

steel pergola type canopy extends from its elevation for 20 ft

over a similar width paved concourse. Connected to Block

“C” it has potential for a data centre type development.

The design feature allows for the opportunity to make visible

the internal work at the centre or the display of complex

machinery in action. The building has a footprint of 30,650.20

ft2 and the first floor to the front elevation extends to

16,554 ft2.

Buildings are designed around a main courtyard and all

common areas will be completed to the highest landscaping

designs and finishes. In the centre of the courtyard is a

distinctive water feature and benches will be suitably

placed around this feature providing a space to nurture the

reflective and creative aspects of our lives.

At EKO Integrated Services we are passionate about

where we work. We believe that it should be aligned with

our energy to allow and empower individuals to produce

their best possible results. At Crannóg we have developed

a proposal that allows the development of a vibrant

connected community. The indoor and outdoor space is

thoughtfully created with the wellbeing of people in mind.

The narrow footprint and tall proportions of the buildings

are designed to flexibly accommodate both open and

private environments. Through the use of healthy materials

and access to daylight, views, and abundant fresh air, the

design seeks to create an effective workplace, promoting

the occupants’ health and well-being. With a commitment

to design sustainability, the office headquarters embodies,

and colorfully celebrates both global and local diversity

and cultures.

The building will be a flexible workplace filled with glare-

free daylight, fresh air and abundant connections to the

outdoors, serviced by systems that, in time, will use only

renewable resources managed in a sustainable manner.

Sustainable Workspace

... a space to nurture the reflective and creative aspects of our lives.

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Cloud Computing

In light of the phenomenal development of computer technology

driven by the global economy and business growth, the demand for

highly specialised centres for the storage and manipulation of data is

vigorous. Cloud computing is being promoted to reduce cost, minimise

risk, improve service and relieve the burden placed on IT departments to

optimise performance and system availability within their facilities.

Data centres can be located anywhere in the world but the critical

factors include the availability of energy and connectivity with particular

emphasis on lower carbon and greenhouse gas footprint. The following

sections on green technology, telecommunications and direct fibre

optic infrastructure, highlight the strengths of Crannóg Centre as a

potential cloud computing / data centre.

green technology, telecommunications and direct fibre optic infrastructure, highlight the strengths of Crannóg as a potential cloud computing/data centre.

Crannóg Centre has developed a strong partnership with Aurora Telecom to

ensure a seamless integration of the occupier’s IT requirements into the local

infrastructure. It is selected as the lead supplier of telecommunications to the

Centre. A designated cable route has also been determined while relevant

design and appropriate permissions from the Local Authority are provisionally

put in place to ensure speedy delivery.

Aurora Telecom

Aurora Telecom is a carrier-neutral operator specialising in Dark Fibre services

for customers seeking a future proof high bandwidth solution. Aurora is focused

on the design and build of bespoke dedicated fibre network solutions. Aurora’s

unique and flexible approach means that organisations can own and control

their networks, ensuring that security, high bandwidth and resilience are

guaranteed.

Since its inception in June 2000, Aurora has been increasingly recognised as the

leading provider of Dark Fibre network to carriers and service providers. Aurora

also provides private Dark Fibre to large corporate, public sector and financial

services organisations. Aurora offers an end-to-end service that includes

consultation, network planning, rapid deployment and comprehensive support.

The innovative ways in which Aurora has deployed the latest technologies and

advanced techniques has enabled it to provide a resilient, flexible and secure

ultra-high bandwidth network solution.

Telecommunications

[ 14 ] [ 15 ]

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A division of Bord Gáis Éireann, Aurora combines telecommunications

expertise with that of advanced network design, construction and

project management to offer a best-in-class fibre network. Aurora has

completed large network projects for the majority of service providers in

Dublin. Some of the information is subject to Non Disclosure Agreements

but listed below are a sample of some projects:

1. Aurora recently rolled out a 330km national fibre network

linking Dublin to the west of Ireland. This project was completed

in April 2011 on time and on budget.

2. Aurora completed a full 8-core fibre ring topology network

for a large government agency on time and on budget.

3. Aurora’s Dublin network was selected as the core and access

network for Magnet Business. It is operated on a long term lease

and to date Aurora undertakes all their connections and

maintenance services.

In addition to Aurora’s Dark Fibre product, Aurora plans to launch a

Managed Bandwidth Service in Q2 2012. Managed Bandwidth focuses

on the provision of fully managed point-to-point connectivity. This

typically includes the provision of specific packages of bandwidth, e.g.

100Mb/s, 1Gb/s, 2.5 Gb/s up to 40Gb/s.

Specifically in relation to Crannóg Centre, Aurora’s National Network

from Dublin to Ennis via Galway is located a short distance from the

Crannóg facility and therefore Aurora is ideally placed to provide

services to the development. There are numerous providers with access

to the site including; BT, Eircom and wireless providers. There is also an

option of having a global network provider such as BT or Verizon connect

global sites via MPLS cloud or similar. Most Tier 1 providers can connect

over Aurora’s Dark Fibre.

www.auroratelecom.ie

Workforce

One of the crowning strengths of Crannóg Centre and Ennis, Co. Clare as a location,

has been the high calibre of the region’s workforce. The quality, diversity and supply

of workforce skills have and continue to be central to driving business growth in this

region so necessary for long term productivity and competitiveness.

According to a recent Western Development Commission (WDC) Employment &

Unemployment Update the Western Region’s labour force was 357,000 people In

the first quarter of 2010. Since the peak of the economic boom (2007) the region

experienced a 1% decline in its labour force, less than the drop in the rest of the State

(-2.8%).’ The WDC is a statutory body promoting economic and social development

in Clare, Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Leitrim, Sligo & Donegal.

number of males and females in the Western Region’s labour force

Q1 2001, 2004, 2007, 2010

Source: CSO, Quarterly national Household Survey, Q1 2010, Table 1, Special Run

0

50

100

150

200

250

2001 2004

Males

2007 2010

Females

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Despite the recession and the consequent higher levels of unemployment,

the current more challenging national and regional labour market

continues to supply workforce, particularly third level graduates with

work experience and foreign languages. The Expert Group on Future Skills

Needs (EGFSN), an advisory group to the Irish Government is focusing on

the appropriate provision of skilled workers in the labour market ensuring

that labour requirements are both anticipated and met.

The critical mass of companies and clusters of companies including

services, call centres, bio medical/engineering, technology & computing

including cloud computing has made Ireland and the Mid West Region

more marketable for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). It continues to provide

an excellent business and working environment for US corporations eager

to access the European market.

According to a Report by one of Ireland’s largest law firms, Matheson

Ormsby Prentice, issued to coincide with President Barack Obama’s visit

to Ireland in late May 2011, skilled workforce is emphasised in the key

findings of their Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) index. ‘When compared

with other European, Asian, Middle Eastern and African countries, Ireland

scored the best when it came to corporate tax rates and regimes, interest

rates, government incentives, physical infrastructure and IT environment

and access to a pool of skilled labour at appropriate levels.’

Over 3,000 students study at second level in the town of Ennis alone

most of whom go on to study at universities and institutes of technology

throughout the country but by far the greater percentage avail of the

superb educational facilities and supports in the local cities of Limerick

and Galway. In the 2011 Census for Co. Clare issued by the Central

Statistics Office, the county has reached the highest population figure in

over a century. The current figures are 116,885 people reflecting a 5.3%

increase from the previous Census, with Ennis town figures reaching 20,209

up 1% from 2006.

Education & Research Facil it ies

A wide range of institutions in Ireland provide third level education and

include universities, colleges of technology and colleges of education

with the Mid West of Ireland being well served by all of these. First

classified in 1989 as a University, the University of Limerick is a college

of 11,000 students. On a campus of 133 hectares, 46 are located north

of the River Shannon in County Clare and called the Clare Campus

while €130 million has been committed at the University to research

infrastructure.

The focus of the University of Limerick is geared towards meeting the

needs of industry with the provision where possible of the relevant

technical skills and business aptitudes. Employment of graduates from

the University of Limerick alone is 8% higher than the national average

with 90% of graduates entering employment or further education within

six months....provides an excellent business and working environment for US corporations eager to access the European market.

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‘A strong sense of local connection to

our communities is a defining feature

of the University of Limerick and I fully

appreciate that we have a responsibility

to promote economic, educational,

social and cultural development,

particularly in the Shannon region.’

Professor Don Barry | President University of Limerick

Pioneering & Connected | Strategic Plan 2011-2015

The Limerick Institute of Technology was awarded the

Sunday Times Institute of the Year in 2008-2009. It prides

itself in the philosophy of active learning where hands-on

programmes run side by side with theory and practice. The

undergraduate and graduate programmes are specifically

targeted to meet the current national and international

employment needs.

[A] vital dimension of our mission is that

we work from a distinctive educational

philosophy of active learning throughout

our programmes, in all disciplines and

at all levels. This ensures that we stay

firmly in touch with the needs of industry

and the community in the regions we

serve.Dr. Maria Hinfelaar | Director Limerick institute of Technology

The National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) has a distinguished reputation in education

spanning over 160 years. Its particular claim is their research strategy and the development of

research clusters that are challenging, viable and regionally and nationally relevant. They also

engage in research alliances and collaborations which they believe are critical to Ireland’s

transition into the knowledge economy.

‘NUIG is a leading international research-intensive university

ranked in the top 250 universities of the world.’Dr. James J. Browne | President national University of ireland Galway

GMIT (Galway Mayo Institute of Technology) has five outreach locations in the West of Ireland

with a strong international focus and links to 100 centres of higher education throughout

Europe. In addition to the undergraduate, apprentice and post graduate programmes, it

provides a range of consultancy services in partnership with the business community.

‘The Institute looks outwards and seeks to respond to the need

of its region through programmes of applied research and

development, the establishment of a regional innovation hub,

support for entrepreneurship and the provision of relevant and

current professional development for the workforce.’

Dr. Michael Carmody | President Galway Mayo institute of Technology

Your Place - Your Future | Strategic Development Plan 2010-2015

[ 20 ] [ 21 ]

lifestyle

Ennis is a charming medieval town of over 20, 000 people with intimate narrow

streets, quaint winding lanes and old colourful shop fronts. A riverside town,

the Fergus is a natural and integral part of Ennis. Rich in cultural heritage, the

Franciscan Abbey dating back to the 13th century is an architectural gem while

the monument to Daniel O’Connell, Ireland’s Liberator stands proudly in the

town’s square.

The modern town is bright, busy and bustling. It boasts a state of the art cultural

& theatre centre, Glór and a seven screen Movieplex Cinema. Ennis Leisure

Complex has a variety of fitness facilities including a 25m swimming pool while

the Lees Road Sports and Amenity Park located on 135 acres of woodland walks

and nature trails, has an all weather pitch and cross country running track. In

addition there are three private gyms and swimming pools and of course there’s

hurling thought to be one of the worlds oldest games!

Ennis is alive with young people. Walk the streets of Ennis at lunchtime or after

school on any day during term and the future of the county is in no doubt.

They are bright, capable, sporty, artistic and full of fun. Schools at all levels are

of a high standard with music, speech and drama and dance classes readily

available. In addition the availability of quality third level education on their

doorstep is highly attractive with the option of going further afield if students so

choose.

Ennis is alive with young people... They are bright, capable, sporty, artistic and full of fun.

Quality of Life

Clare is a haven for outdoor leisure. 11 golf courses dot

the county from world renowned seaside links to parkland

courses. The breathtaking Greg Norman designed

Doonbeg Golf Course on the rugged west coast of Clare

to the traditonal ‘out and back’ links of Lahinch provide

spectacular rounds for both the pro and amateur. Lough

Derg is a superb fishing and boating lake and the most

southern of the Shannon system. And of course there is

traditional music in the very fibre of our being.

Or there is sailing on the lakes of Cullaun or Lough Derg,

surfing on the giant waves of Lahinch or Spanish Point or

horse riding through woodland and countryside trails. For

more robust excitement visit Thomond Park, Limerick, home

of the famed Munster Rugby team & 2011 Magners League

Winners and just a twenty five minute drive away.

“the first 10 holes at Lahinch are some of the coolest links holes I’ve ever played,”Stewart Cink | American professional golfer

[ 22 ] [ 23 ]

The Ennis hinterland is a magical landcape. From the

wilderness of the Burren National Park to the spectacular

Cliffs of Moher, from the much visited Poulnabrone Dolmen

to the authentic Bunratty Castle with Bunratty Folk Park close

by, it is a county to slowly savour.

Dromoland Castle, once the stately ancestral home of the

direct descendants of the 10th century High King of Ireland,

Brian Boru, blends the old world with contempory luxury in

impeccable parkland surroundings. Adare Manor across

the county boundary in Limerick is another splendid ediface

- a Neo Gothic 19th Century Manor House with extensive

grounds and golf course.

Corporate facilities for small or large business gatherings

in modest to luxurious surroundings is accessible close to

Ennis and Crannóg Centre.

Closest is the Templegate Hotel right in the heart of town.

Once a convent and chapel, a major redevelopment

has made it an attractive conference venue. The Brian

Boru Corporate Centre at Dromoland Castle is set in

graceful gothic surroundings with a support team of

qualified professionals.

Thomond Park Stadium in Limerick offers four state of

the art event suites with glass facades and panoramic

views of the rugby stadium and pitch. On the west

coast of Clare at Doonbeg Golf, its corporate facilities

offers natural-lit meeting areas, private fine dining and

executive business centre facilities.

Conference Facil it ies

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eko

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eko

EKO Integrated Services

EKO is an Ennis, Co. Clare based partnership whose remit is to identify and

deliver large scale business, commercial and infrastructural projects. It facilitates

the process and stages of complex projects through the provision of expertise

in specialist professional areas from concept generation, forward planning

and collaboration through phased delivery in conjunction with national and

international associates.

EKO is the pivot around which these projects evolve. It seeks to expedite turnkey

delivery through knowledge and experience of the Irish bureaucratic landscape

eliminating the delays and frustrations associated with such projects. EKO’s focus

is on monitoring costs including those of professionals and suppliers to ensure a

value for money approach. Its expertise is in stakeholder management, leading

the process and providing the lowest risk option.

Our work includes development restructuring, commercial expansion,

telecommunications and energy infrastructure, renewable energy projects &

residential and educational developments. We focus on an integrated approach

and the delivery of projects and providing an extensive business network. Our

combined professional experience is in renewable energy developments,

planning, architecture, building and property management providing optimum

project execution and client service.

Our website address is www.eko.ie

EKO staff has been involved in developing the Crannóg concept from the beginning. Every aspect

of its development is familiar from planning through design. There is a passion and expertise within

this team, who are established achievers in their fields, to realise the vision and deliver a high class

business centre for clients and the community.

n facilitate a smooth, hassle-free transition

for start-up entities relocating to Ireland or

expanding existing operations

n provide a unique ‘end to end’ service for

companies including financial, architectural,

engineering, construction and project

management

n commission a competent design team,

based on the client’s brief, and providing a

quality project management service handling

all aspects of project development from the

planning process to handover including the

compliance of all planning conditions and

building regulations

n work closely with established sub-

contractors and design team and fit

requirements in-house within an agreed

budget

n provide all relevant documentation

throughout the construction of the build

including electricity and telecom permits,

engineer and fire certificates

n a very high standard of professional

service and ensure that our client’s best

interests are central to everything we do. We

acknowledge and respect the client’s

point of view, recognise and appreciate the

investment they are making and

consistently endeavour not just to meet their

requirements but to exceed their

expectations when and where possible

n provide a dedicated Stakeholder

Relationship Manager who ensures that all

client reporting requirements are met and a

timely resolution of any client concerns

n endeavour to maintain the highest

standards, understand the client’s need for a

settling in period and handle and resolve any

issues that arise in the interim

In this context, EKO offers the following:

Crannóg is being developed with the support of all state agencies including Clare County Council who are pro-development and support all existing and new business. EKO will organise all meetings with relevant council officials and management.

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I reland Taxation Advantages

Management

At EKO our focus is firmly fixed on the client’s future and our facilities management

capability is about far more than bricks and mortar. It covers security, energy, fire

prevention, cleaning, lighting, finance, furniture - and whatever is necessary to

create a workplace that delivers on safety, efficiency and sustainability.

We are not only about ensuring that the facility is ‘fit for purpose’ rather we

strive to ensure that the work environment can adapt to the changes in client

requirements. We know the dynamics of business and understand that change

management is necessary to meet unforeseen challenges and for survival.

An active management company will be established to ensure that the highest

standards are maintained at the Centre and that it is the most cost effective

option for the client(s). Occupier representatives will join the management team

and a service charge at minimum cost will be paid for security, landscaping,

maintenance and public liability insurance. The management company will

work closely with the occupiers on an on-going basis to ensure the smooth

running of the Centre.

At EKO Integrated Services we will incorporate your projected needs into our

programme of works to ensure that the workplace is maintained and developed

in line with your requirements. We are a seamless part of your management

team and we are passionate about delivering a high quality workplace so that

your team is optimally placed to achieve its vision.

We know the dynamics of business and understand that change management is necessary to meet unforeseen challenges and for survival.

In recent years Ireland has emerged as a favoured

onshore location for multi national or global companies

establishing regional or global headquarters to manage the

profits, functions, and shareholdings associated with their

international business.

The key features of Ireland’s tax regime that have lead to

it becoming a preferred location for these organisations

include:

12.5% corporate tax rate for active businessand 25% Research & Development (R&D) tax credit.

General Advantages

n 12.5% corporate tax rate for active business.

This is one of the lowest onshore corporation

tax rates in the world

n 25% Research & Development (R&D) tax credit.

This tax credit can be treated as an “above

the line” disclosure under Irish GAAP

(Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)

IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards)

and US GAAP (in situations where the R&D tax

credit is capable of being monetized)

n an intellectual property (IP) regime which

provides a tax write-off for broadly defined

IP acquisitions

n an EU - approved stable tax regime, with access

to extensive treaty network and EU Directives.

Ireland has double taxation agreements with

55 countries and this number is continuously

growing

n generous domestic law withholding

tax exemptions

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Advantages for Holding Companies:

There is a range of tax provisions that are beneficial to organisations establishing their global

or regional headquarters in Ireland. These include:

For a more comprehensive review of the taxation provisions that relate to international business locating in ireland

please refer to the iDA (industrial Development Authority) publication entitled “iDA Tax Brochure 2010”.

Further advice is available on request.

‘My Department intends to boost the international standing

of Ireland as a leading centre for scientific and research

excellence and to provide a framework to demonstrate

the world class research system that we have built over the

last decade and welcome the participation of over seas

companies.’Richard Bruton - Minister for enterprise, Jobs & innovation (10th May 2011)

At EKO Integrated Services we are passionate about energy. It’s one area where businesses

can make huge progress that will benefit all of us – and future generations. Organisations,

for whom energy is a major cost and where markets are intensely competitive, know well

that their development and sustainability depends hugely on the effectiveness of energy

policies and practices.

Ireland’s energy policy does not set merely dutiful and defensive goals. These goals are potentially transformational and central to these goals is energy efficiency.

In these times, it is more imperative than ever that we create an energy efficient economy.

In early 2009, Ireland’s Government published the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan

2009-2020 (NEEAP). It plots the path to an ambitious but achievable national energy

efficiency gain of 20% by 2020.

The goal for the industrial and commercial sector in NEEAP is to deliver on its savings targets

and, in the process, build a growing international reputation for energy efficient practices,

innovation and competitiveness. In this, the LIEN (Large Industry Energy Network) network,

supported by SEAI (Sustainable Energy Association of Ireland) is playing a huge part. It is

an excellent example of how government and business can work together to build our

new economy.

Green Technology

n Capital gains tax participation exemption

on disposal of qualifying shareholdings

n Effective exemption for foreign dividends

via 12.5% tax rate for qualifying foreign

dividends and flexible foreign tax credit system

n Double tax relief available for tax suffered

in foreign branches and pooling provisions for

unused credits

n No dividend withholding tax to treaty

countries (or intermediary subsidiaries) under

domestic law

n Access to treaties to minimise withholding

tax on royalties and interest and further

domestic legislation provisions to minimise

withholding tax on interest

n Extensive treaty network & access to EU

directives

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With more than 135 member companies, representing two-thirds of industrial

energy use and tens of thousands of jobs, the network continues to grow in

achievement and influence as it identifies and harnesses new energy-efficiency

opportunities. It has led the way in showing how energy efficiency yields not only

substantial savings in energy costs and CO2 emissions, and brings greater cost

competitiveness, it has also shown how energy efficiency projects can lead to

greater process efficiency and product quality.

The price of energy is one of the most critical issues facing large energy users,

which Government has been quick to act upon. The Government has brought

about increased competition in energy supply. Energy prices are now close, or

often below, the European averages. Overall, electricity and gas prices have

fallen at a faster rate than in the EU in general, while meeting the 2010 target of

15% of electricity generation being met from renewable sources.

Energy prices are now close, or often below, the European averages. Overall, electricity and gas prices have fallen at a faster rate than in the EU

500

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

244GWh 334 388 454 655 1112 1622 1958 2410 2955

0

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

Wind-sourced electricity in ireland, 2000 – 2009

Source eirGrid & SeAi ePSSU.

Wind Energy accounted for 63% of renewable sourced electricity in 2008 and 73% in 2009.

However, as we look forward to 2013 and the next phase of the EU

Emissions Trading Scheme, the challenge of cutting CO2 emissions, while

remaining competitive, remains testing. Large energy users are thus

increasingly exploring the viability of renewable energy sources. Options

include biomass technology, anaerobic digestion and wind generation.

At a time of much negativity, all these efforts to ensure energy efficiency

are models of the kind of actions taken to ensure a positive future. A

significant development in 2009 was the launch of a new Energy Efficiency

Competency Centre (I2E2), funded by IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland,

and with participation from SEAI. This is focusing on world class industry -

education research investigating energy efficiency solutions and related

opportunities with the potential to develop commercially from Ireland.

It is no coincidence that founding members of the Centre are LIEN and/

or Energy Agreements members, drawing on their years of experience

in energy management and pooling their expertise in the quest to solve

common problems in conjunction with research partners. This type of

collaborative initiative by State bodies is especially welcome and has the

prospect of making a real contribution towards developing Ireland as a

smart green economy.

In embracing energy management, strategic responses, and new and

improved technologies, these LIEN companies are setting an example for

the rest of Irish and International business and for us all. Once again, they

have more than justified the Government’s continued support for large

energy users and the assistance that is offered through SEAI.

EKO Integrated Services seeks to apply the same resolve and

professionalism to saving energy, cutting costs and ensuring cost-

competitiveness. This will help to ensure that Crannóg Centre is a truly

sustainable world class work place based on innovative principles and

best practice.

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100

0

200

300

400

500

C02 g/k Wh

600

700

800

900

1000

19901992

19941000

19962000

20022004

20062008

electricity emission Factors – ireland 1990 - 2009

*Source: Sustainability energy Authority of ireland,

The above graph shows the progressive lowering of emission factors associated

with Irish Electricity Generation.

Projected Figures for 2010/2020 | Grid Average emissions in 2010 are heading

for 474g/kWh with projected Grid Average in 2020 of 394g/kWh (Source; eSB ecars)

Ireland leads the way in terms of integrating green energy in an international grid

context. A new quarter-hourly record for the amount of electricity generated

by Ireland’s wind farms was also achieved. The output of Ireland’s wind farms

reached its 2009 peak of 1064MW on October 24th with enough power generated

at that time to supply over 600,000 homes. At times towards the end of 2009, the

amount of wind power on the system was meeting 45% of the national electricity

demand with no issues reported by EirGrid, the Irish transmission system operator.

Crannóg Centre has developed a strong partnership with Aurora Telecom to

ensure a seamless integration of the occupier’s IT requirements into the local

infrastructure. It is selected as the lead supplier of telecommunications to the

Centre. A designated cable route has also been determined while relevant

design and appropriate permissions from the Local Authority are provisionally

put in place to ensure speedy delivery.

Table B. CO2 emissions factors per supplier for 2008

Supplier

Airtricity

Bord Gais

eSB CS

eSB ie

energia

Aughinish Alumina

eSB Pgen

CHP Supply

Dan Twomey Waterpower

Quinn Ltd

Slievereagh

Vayu

All island

0.142

0.554

0.532

0.565

0.565

0.581

0.581

0.581

0.581

0.581

0.581

0.581

0.533

tCO2/MWh

Disclosure of 2008 Fuel Mix 7 CO2 emissions- CeR/10/022

These figures represent the CO2 emissions for the mix of energy provided by

suppliers to their customers but it is not necessarily represntative of generations

such customers may provide themselves from onsite generation.

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Glossary of Abbreviations

WDC: Western Development Commission

ESB: Electricity Supply Board

EIRCOM: former state owned Irish telecommunications company

LIEN: Large Industrial Energy Network

SEAI: Sustainability Energy Authority of Ireland

IFRS: International Financial Reporting Systems

NEEAP: National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (Ireland)

References

Workforce: Western Development Commission, Central Statistics Office Ireland and Matheson Ormsby Prentice Report 2011

Ireland – World Leader in Green Energy: SEAI and former Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan

Block AFloor Plans & Front Elevation

Site Layout Map - Ground Floor PlanArea: 5.342 Hectares (13.20 Acres)Scale: 1/500

Blo

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AFl

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& F

ront

ele

vatio

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block A | 27,602 ft²

block b | 47,204 ft²

block c | 35,083 ft²

block D | 135,333 ft²

block E | 21,554 ft²

ovErAll | 266,776 ft²

BLO

CK

BFF

L: 1

1.00

BLO

CK

CFF

L: 1

1.50

BLO

CK

EFF

L: 1

2.00

BLO

CK

DFF

L: 1

1.50

BLO

CK

AFF

L: 1

2.00

Blo

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BFi

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loo

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Rea

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eva

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- Se

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Blo

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BG

roun

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& F

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Ground Floor LayoutGFA 3745.7m2NFA 3362.8m2

Front Elevation

Blo

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CFl

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& F

ront

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Sec

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A-A

Blo

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DG

roun

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& F

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Blo

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DFi

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loo

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& R

ea

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Blo

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DSe

co

nd F

loo

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& S

ec

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A-A

Blo

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DTh

ird F

loo

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& R

oo

f Pla

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Blo

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DSi

de

ele

vatio

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Se

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n B-

B, C

-C

de

tails

Blo

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eFl

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& e

leva

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Building - Development Information

Details Status

n Planning Permits & Development Consents Complete and in Place Sewage

n Surface Water Discharge to contiguous

water course via attenuation

n Potable Water Mains Connection

n electricity Mains (5 MW)

n Mains Gas Natural mains gas locally

(transmission and distribution)

n Telecom Multiple Provider

n Total Area of Building 266,776 ft²

n Total Site Area 13.20 acres / 5.342 Hectares

n Total Hard Standing Area 3.53 Acres / 1.43 Hectares

n Road Access Public Road

n Title Freehold / Leasehold

Crannóg Notes