Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 February 2019
253. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason SOLAS requires Safe Pass, CSCS and QSCS card holders to be reassessed when they are renewing their respective cards within the allocated time periods in view of a High Court decision in 2017 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5568/19]
View answerThe High Court decision in 2017, which the Deputy refers to, relates to the renewal of CSCS and QSCS cards only and made no reference to Safe Pass registration cards. Since this decision SOLAS no longer requires applicants who wish to renew their CSCS and QSCS cards to complete reassessments or to provide statements of relevant experience. Renewals for these CSCS and QSCS cards are now on the basis of the applicant completing a renewal application form, providing an up to date photograph and a renewal fee.
This judgement was challenged in relation to the Safe Pass registration card and SOLAS’ right to set terms for the renewal of these cards. This matter was specifically clarified in the High Court in May 2017 which found that the order had no application in relation to the Safe Pass registration card.
Safe Pass is a broader programme of health and safety training that applies to all construction workers. The Safe Pass Programme is continually developed in line with international best practice to ensure the content of the programme is current, fit for purpose and keeps abreast of changes in safety legislation, developing best practice in safe behaviour on site and the ever changing profile of the workforce and work environment in the construction industry. A valid Safe Pass card can only be obtained upon successful completion of the Safe Pass Safety Awareness training programme. It is a condition of renewal of the registration card that participants must update their safety awareness training every four years, which is fully supported by all partners within the construction sector.
