I propose to take Questions Nos. 349 to 351, inclusive, and 382 to 384, inclusive, together.
My Department is liaising with local authorities in relation to significant building control issues that have arisen in other multi-unit developments across the country, including the Aras na Cluaine Complex, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 which has already been the subject of court proceedings brought by South Dublin County Council. Local authorities already have extensive powers of inspection and enforcement under current legislation and have used such powers on a number of occasions where circumstances similar to those at Priory Hall have arisen. I have urged local authorities to continue to use all of the powers currently available to them to address serious building defects.
I attach high priority to consumer protection in the area of quality construction of new dwellings. That is why, in July 2010, I announced a number of measures to be advanced by my Department and local authorities with a view to improving compliance with, and oversight of, the requirements of the Building Regulations. In broad terms the measures will involve:-
(a) the introduction of mandatory certificates of compliance by builders and designers of buildings confirming that the statutory requirements of the Building Regulations have been met;
(b) more efficient pooling of building control staff and resources across the local authority sector to ensure more effective and meaningful oversight of building activity;
(c) standardised approaches and common protocols to ensure nationwide consistency in the administration of building control functions;
(d) better support and further development of the building control function nationwide.
Mandatory certification and improved inspection arrangements are key reforms which will, I believe, have the capacity to improve the quality of buildings and will lead to further strengthening of the regulatory regime as early as possible in 2012. It is important to note, however, that a robust system of building control does exist and this is demonstrated by the Priory Hall situation where the local authority is successfully using its powers to make the appropriate party responsible.
In relation to further financial assistance and help with mortgage repayments for Priory Hall residents, I understand that Dublin City Council, having moved quickly to make arrangements for the provision of temporary accommodation for affected residents who required it, continues to engage with the residents in order to address and advise them in relation to specific family and individual needs. I have no function in relation to this aspect of the matter but I have asked Dublin City Council to do all they can to assist the affected residents and see them through this very stressful and distressing ordeal. I would also urge relevant financial institutions to show similar compassion and understanding in their dealings with affected residents.