The question that immediately entered my head along with others is why steel would not be used to secure a fourth floor balcony.
Instead wood and a water proof membrane.The so called Bay srea" is foggy and damp occasionally I would imagine.
American reporter on radio today was suggesting shoddy original build quality and poor or no maintenance. And indeed high rents being charged in the place.
nonpareil (25-06-15)
Local D. A. and police now looking into the matter.
Even if no steel used, decent quality , pressure treated wooden beams shouldn't have failed after just 8 years.
More shoddy builders, corner cutters and lax regulation/inspection in the world than Centre Tiger Ireland.