On June 26, 2025, Stephen Lynam, MSc., B. Eng., MIEI—Technical Advisor for Construction Contracts at Ireland’s Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation—shared Ireland’s journey in embedding Building Information Modelling (BIM) into public procurement. His presentation revealed a clear, government-led strategy to make BIM the standard across all public sector construction projects. 

From Policy to Mandate 

Ireland’s transformation started in 2014 with a review of public works contracts, followed by the BIM Position Paper (2017). Momentum accelerated with the Build Digital Project launched in 2021, driving digital adoption across the construction sector. 

In July 2023, BIM standards became compulsory for all Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF) projects. From January 2024, BIM was mandatory for large public projects, with costs integrated into budgets. By January 2028, BIM will be required across all public sector projects. 

As Lynam put it, BIM is no longer optional; it is “part of the DNA of Irish public procurement.” 

Driving Change at Scale 

The impact is significant. In 2024 alone, Ireland registered 1,652 public works projects on eTenders.ie: 

• 160 above €10M
• 80 above €5M
• 322 above €1M
• 1,090 below €1M 

BIM is no longer just for flagship developments—it’s becoming the everyday language of construction procurement. 

Standards, Skills, and Support 

Ireland’s approach combines rigorous standards with strong industry support: 

• International frameworks integrated into the CWMF: ISO 19650, Uniclass 2015, IFC, and ICMS
• BIM masterclasses and webinars for civil servants and practitioners
• A Public Sector BIM Group for knowledge exchange
• Practical templates and guides
• Training networks like Build Digital and DASBE
• Certification pathways via NSAI’s ISO 19650 scheme 

This ecosystem of guidance, training, and standards ensures that clients, consultants, and contractors can adapt smoothly. 

Beyond BIM: Digital Procurement 

Lynam also unveiled the eWorks Suitability Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)—a pilot project to digitise procurement. The goal: a seamless system where buyers and contractors share digital profiles, enter information once, and reuse it across projects. This could make procurement as digital and efficient as the assets it delivers. 

Europe Wants Your Voice 

Ireland’s success is inspiring, but Europe wants to hear from you. During the same webinar, the European Commission launched a 10-minute online survey on BIM in public procurement—and it’s still open. 

This is your chance to influence EU-level policy and guidance by sharing your insights on policies, training, funding, and practical implementation. 

By taking part, you will: 

• Ensure your country’s perspective is represented
• Shape a smarter, greener, and more digital Europe
• Contribute directly to the future of public procurement 

⏳ Don’t miss out—your voice matters. 

 👉 Take the Survey: BIM Integration in Public Procurement - https://public-buyers-community.ec.europa.eu/communities/bim-and-public-procurement/news/have-your-say-online-survey-bim-integration-public 

📺 Missed the session? 
You can watch the full webinar replay here: Webinar Recording – Driving BIM Adoption 

Be part of the change. Help define Europe’s digital future in construction.