Since 1978, GEM has been more than just a main contractor, we've built a reputation as a trusted Irish construction industry partner.

What makes us one of the top construction companies in Ireland? Firstly, it’s our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results. They’re not just highly skilled professionals but passionate individuals who bring their knowledge and expertise to successfully manage even the most complex projects. Secondly, it’s our belief in constant growth and teamwork that truly defines us. These values aren’t just empty words: they shape and influence everything we do.

 

GEM’s in-house development and construction expertise gives us a unique edge. Our integrated approach streamlines operations: we connect with stakeholders earlier and tackle challenges head-on. This has contributed to our significant growth — we’re proud to have increased annual turnover from €50m to in excess of €100m in the last decade.

But numbers aside, it’s our strong drive, close stakeholder relationships and amazing team that truly power our success. Bringing development and construction together under one roof means we can oversee every detail of our projects, ensuring their successful delivery.

 

When it comes to safety it is always a top priority, and we’re proud to be one of Ireland’s first organisations to transition to the ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety Standard. Our Integrated Management System, audited and certified by the NSAI to ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 international standards, shows just how serious we are about doing things right.

 

We’re excited about the future of construction and integrating the latest digital technologies into our processes. We use industry-leading software like Procore to optimise efficiency and productivity, and ultimately better serve our clients. 

Our People

Martin Healy

Martin Healy

Managing Director
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Vincent Fay

Vincent Fay

Financial Director
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Kevin Fay

Kevin Fay

Construction Director
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Andrew Gettings

Andrew Gettings

Commercial Director
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Barry O’Rafferty

Barry O’Rafferty

Contracts Director
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Shane Carroll

Shane Carroll

Quantity Surveyor Director
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Wayne Fowler

Wayne Fowler

Associate Contracts Director
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Kieran Kelly

Kieran Kelly

Associate Finance Director
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Our History

Since starting in 1978, we’ve been at the forefront of the Irish construction industry — working hard to earn a reputation for excellence and delivering exceptional projects. Let’s look back at our remarkable history and the milestones that have shaped us into the company we are today.

In 1978, founders Brian Loughran and Pat Fay united to establish GEM.

Over the next 10-15 years, GEM evolved into a leading construction company, excelling in significant local and national projects including award-winning government buildings.

The launch of an exclusive housing and apartment development at Beggars Bush Haddington Road Dublin marked GEM’s entry into the development market.

Continuing on an upward trajectory, GEM secured the Jervis Street Dublin project.

A major commercial endeavour. This win marked a pivotal moment and made GEM a big name in Ireland's construction world.

Over the years, GEM continued to excel in diverse domains.

Landmark housing projects included Johnstown Wood Navan and Ballymun Regeneration, alongside exciting commercial ventures like Kilbeggan Racecourse's new stand and C&D Foods' Edgeworthstown redevelopment. We also ventured into luxury housing with the Abbotts Hill Malahide Dublin home development.

A project close to our hearts was restoring St. Mel's Cathedral, Longford. Ravaged by a fire on Christmas Eve 2009, this was a momentous feat and of huge significance for us all.

Adapting to evolving technology and trends, GEM embraced the challenge of constructing one of Ireland's first top-rated eco-friendly houses.

This gave us a chance to demonstrate our precision and first-class teamwork to deliver an environmentally conscious masterpiece.

Expanding our horizons, GEM ventured into larger, international-scale projects.

Moving with industry shifts, we embraced Design and Build to secure a contract for a bespoke 212-bed student complex at Church Street, Dublin. This solidified our spot at the forefront of the construction industry.

GEM continues to grow and we’re now one of Ireland’s biggest homebuilders, averaging 10 homes per week as part of our integrated services.

Our values
Quality

We always aim for the best. From the big picture down to the smallest details, we deliver excellence in every aspect of our work.

Experienced

Our team knows their stuff. They bring years of know-how and industry experience to each project to get the job done right.

Confident

We’re sure of what we do. Because we’ve done it successfully time and again for projects of all shapes, sizes and complexity.

Genuine

We truly care. About our clients’ needs, the relationships we build and nurture, and the trust and reputation we earn as a result.

Reliable

You can count on us. We consistently deliver on our promises and are proud to be a trusted name in the construction industry.

Accreditations

We believe our work speaks for itself, but it’s always an honour to be recognised by industry-leading awards and accreditations.

Marking 25 years with GEM, Martin has been the cornerstone of our company. His natural leadership abilities and authentic talent for connecting with people have played a pivotal role in shaping our success story.

In his role as Financial Director, Vincent provides expert guidance, overseeing corporate finance, treasury management, and financial planning. His financial acumen ensures a solid financial foundation and enables us to achieve our financial objectives.

Having joined GEM in 2001, Kevin’s journey to Construction Director has mirrored our organisation’s growth. A skilled structural engineer, he manages multiple teams with a strong focus on technical excellence and work quality.

Since joining us in 1998, Andrew has become our go-to for all things commercial. Trained as a quantity surveyor, he leads our estimating and bid management teams, ensuring we stay sharp and competitive.

Joining us in 2018 with a wealth of experience from the UK and Ireland, Barry quickly showcased his skills. In just two years, he joined our board of directors. His dedication to managing and delivering cost-effective projects is a testament to his professionalism.

Shane’s journey from a junior surveyor in 1997 to the board of directors in 2019 is a story of dedication. He’s delivered landmark projects on budget while skillfully balancing relationships between clients, stakeholders and suppliers.

Having worked across the UK and Middle East, Wayne brought his substantial experience to GEM in 2021. Now our Associate Contracts Director, he excels at effective communication, teamwork, and delivering unparalleled value.

Our Associate Finance Director, Kieran, blends deep financial expertise with strategic insight. His role is pivotal in steering our ongoing success and growth for GEM.