Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2014
1041. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to address problems arising from the implementation of SI No 9 of 2014 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41736/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver 3,500 projects have advanced under the revised building control regulatory framework since SI No. 9 of 2014 came into effect on 1 March 2014. Oversight of building activity by industry and by local building control authorities is significantly improved and the online Building Control Management System (BCMS) is now firmly established as the standard means of building control administration. This gives local building control authorities ready access to detailed information in relation to all projects notified as commencing and means they are better equipped to identify risks and monitor activity. I am committed to reviewing the operation of S.I. No. 9 of 2014 after its first year in operation, in order to identify any further improvements that may be reasonable and appropriate. It is vital that effective controls are in place to ensure that the construction sector functions properly and acts responsibly and can thus play a key role in supporting recovery and growth in the wider economy.
My Department has no function in relation to the regulation or oversight of insurance providers or insurance based products. Given the widespread public concerns that have arisen in recent years in relation to defective and non-compliant buildings, it would be unusual if this did not have an impact on insurance arrangements within the construction sector. SI No. 9 of 2014, however, rebalances the situation and empowers competence and professionalism on construction projects while ensuring that owners, builders and designers are accountable for compliance with their statutory obligations. Better regulation of the construction industry in this way should ensure that risks are better managed and thus have a positive impact on insurance arrangements in the longer term.
