Contractor blames State as it folds

Brian McCarthy Contractors Ltd yesterday became the latest high-profile victim of the building crash after confirming that it has ceased trading.

During the building boom, the Ennis-based firm recorded revenues in excess of €70m and completed substantial projects including the 17-storey Clarion Hotel in Limerick and the Irish Chamber Orchestra building at the University of Limerick.

The award-winning firm — in place for the past 36 years — employed over 220 during the boom and the decision to cease trading will result in the loss of the 20 direct jobs that remained at the firm.