Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Jan 2000

Vol. 513 No. 1

Written Answers. - Building Regulations.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

132 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has for the registration or licensing of builders and building contractors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1594/00]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey):

The 1997 report of the Strategic Review Committee on the Construction Industry included a recommendation for a registration system for building contractors and sub-contractors. The report recommended that an independent body be established, by the construction industry, to administer the system.

In December 1999, the broadly based Forum for the Construction Industry submitted an interim report setting out preliminary detailed proposals for the registration of contractors, including sub-contractors. My Department is now considering this report, the implementation of which would require legislation to protect the title of registered contractor. The process of consulting other Departments will be undertaken with a view to arriving at a decision as soon as possible.