Housing Costs.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2004

Thursday, 7 October 2004

Questions (257)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

257 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to introduce legislation to regulate management services companies in view of the escalating charges faced by many apartment owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23988/04]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

An Agreed Programme for Government undertook to consider the introduction of legislation to regulate the establishment and operation of apartment complex management companies. A Law Reform Commission working group is currently examining the law on condominiums. The aim is to develop proposals to provide a mechanism for dealing with issues which are already arising, or which, it is anticipated, will arise, in existing and future multi-unit developments.

As part of its work, this group is considering potential consumer protection elements, including service charges. I understand that the group intends to produce a consultation paper early in the new year. This should provide a basis for considering possible measures and how they should be pursued.