BioConnect 'months' away

It will be “some months yet” before the long awaited BioConnect Innovation Centre will commence operations at its headquarters at Knockaconny outside Monaghan Town, Monday’s meeting of Monaghan County Council was informed.

In response to a written question submitted by Cllr Seán Conlon (SF), it was stated that BioConnect, which will apply biotechnology expertise to assist the region’s agri-food sector in new product development, has commenced off-site operations and currently employs three staff. However, the facility still has to finish the lab fitout at its Knockaconny premises and procure specialist lab equipment.

Cllr Conlon was also informed: “The Certificate of Substantial Completion for the BioConnect facility was issued on Friday July 31.

Substantial completion marks the end of the construction contract, apart from the 12-month engaging period.”