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CWPS at 60: Building Futures for Ireland’s Construction Workforce

27/10/2025 Posted by Communications | Comments(0)

Reflecting on Six Decades of Change

During the event, CWPS Chairperson Dominic Doheny reflected on the journey from CFOPS to the modern scheme we know today.

“Both the construction sector and pensions environment have transformed dramatically over the last sixty years. Our priority remains ensuring CWPS continues to be robust, relevant, and fair for the next generation of members, just as it has been for the past sixty.”

Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Anne Keogh, the evening highlighted CWPS’s heritage, adaptability, and ongoing role as a cornerstone of employee benefits in the construction industry.

Voices from Across the Sector

The anniversary celebration featured contributions from key figures who recognised CWPS’s contribution to Ireland’s pensions landscape:

Dara Calleary TD, Minister for Social Protection, Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, acknowledged CWPS’s long-standing commitment to workers’ financial security.
Brendan Kennedy, Pensions Regulator, praised the Scheme’s governance, longevity, and role in setting standards within the multi-employer pensions space.
Colm Cunningham of Irish Life Investment Managers (ILIM) spoke about the importance of responsible investment and long-term sustainability, essential for maintaining member confidence and supporting future value.

Their messages reinforced CWPS’s reputation as a well-governed, trusted scheme built on collaboration between trustees, employers, unions, and industry partners.

Looking Ahead: Listening and Evolving

A key announcement on the night came from Susan O’Mara, CPAS Business Development Manager, who introduced the upcoming CWPS Member Survey. This initiative aims to gather member insights on communication, understanding of pension benefits, and expectations for digital engagement.

The survey represents CWPS’s forward-looking approach as the Scheme prepares for the introduction of My Future Fund (Auto-Enrolment) in 2026 — a reform that will reshape how employees across Ireland access retirement savings.

CWPS’s focus remains clear:

Strengthen communication with members
Enhance digital tools
Maintain robust governance
Ensure the Scheme stays relevant in a changing pensions landscape

Building the Next Chapter

Closing the event, Anne Keogh thanked trustees past and present, employers, union partners, and staff whose dedication has supported CWPS’s success over six decades.

As CWPS steps into its next era, it does so with:

A proud legacy of service
A strong foundation of governance
A commitment to financial security for members
A readiness to adapt to Ireland’s evolving pensions environment

For sixty years, CWPS has been helping to build financial futures for those who build Ireland. With innovation ahead and experience behind it, the Scheme is well-positioned to continue that mission for decades to come.