The Clarion Quarter on the North Docks was part of Phase 2 of the IFSC development. It is a mixed use development with apartments, hotel, offices, retail. It is served by the LUAS rail line.
 

A team consisting of the McCormack family, Pearse Construction and the Kelly family came together to develop the project. The hotel was operated by the Clarion brand. The supermarket was managed under the Fresh brand.
 

The National College of Ireland was developed as part of the project. I worked successfully with Joyce O’Connor the President of the college. When I met Joyce around 20 years ago I recall the fun we had at a group dinner in Patrick Guilbaud’s when I asked her to dance, despite there being no music! I said the music was everywhere..!! Joyce remains a good friend to this day.

The success of the college is attributable to a wide range of sponsors from the business and social community. In 2020, the University President Gina Quin confirmed there were over 50,000 alumni.  
​
Martin Jones from BKD was the architect. One feature of the building design is the entrance, which inspired by the shape of an open book. It was a shared design moment between Martin and myself. We also remain good friends to this day.