The passing years have taken a toll on the stone work here. A 10-year, EUR 25m project has been set up in association with the National Development Program and the Office of Pubic Works to restore the older areas of the cemetery.
The challenge facing Martin Galligan and his team was formidable. Gravestones weighing up to 1.5 tonnes, and are placed inside many mature trees and narrow pathways.
Donegal-based crane specialists Mantis Cranes Ireland Ltd suggested a Maeda mini-crawler crane. The company, a self-erecting tower crane manufacturer, is a non-exclusive dealer of Japanese mini cranes in Ireland.
Mantis sent a Maeda mini crawler crane to the site and inducted operators. Then the Glasnevin team and the personnel from Mantis co-operated to come up with the best method of working to complete the refurbishment work in the safest and most efficient way. After several months of trials, a Maeda MC285CRM was purchased by the Glasnevin Cemetery Restoration Project.
When folded, the crane is compact enough to traverse the narrow walkways but can lift a maximum load of 2.8 tonnes when standing on its extended outriggers.
