Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 July 2017
1698. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the action he will take to address the serious problem of structural fire safety defects in a number of timberframe estates here; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a number of fires in timberframe estates have spread rapidly posing a serious risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36490/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn July 2015, the then Minister directed that a review be undertaken by an independent fire expert to develop a framework for general application, in the interest of supporting owners and residents living in developments where concerns regarding non-compliance with fire safety requirements arise. A Steering Group was convened to oversee the review.
The terms of reference of the Steering Group included the following: -
- Have regard to the typical risk profile faced by residents, their visitors and fire service personnel in and about apartment developments and housing estates;
- Take account of normal hazards and relevant safety management arrangements as well as typical passive and active safety features;
- Outline general advice and guidance which can be used by owners/residents and their professional advisers, to ensure that an adequate level of safety is in place for persons in and about their development.
This may include making provision for -
- appropriate or enhanced fire detection and alarm measures;
- checking that appropriate escape routes from the premises are available, designed in accordance with current standards;
- ensuring evacuation plans are rehearsed in each premises in the event of a fire incident.
The independent fire safety expert has completed his review and a report on the matter has been received by my Department from the Steering Group. Legal clarification was required in relation to a number of issues and I intend to make arrangements for the publication of the framework as soon as these have been resolved.
