Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 6 September 2019
398. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a schedule of inspections conducted at a site (details supplied) and its surrounds for quality assurance and building regulations compliance since the project commenced to date will be provided; his plans to carry out a full risk assessment at the location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35835/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe building project referred to by the Deputy is being delivered under my Department's Design & Build programme. This delivery programme uses a professional external Project Manager to progress the project through the relevant stages of architectural planning, tendering and construction. There is also a full-time Clerk of Works present on site who represents the interests of the Department in regard to ensuring that the quality of both materials and workmanship are in accordance with architects/engineers drawings and specifications.
As required under the Building Control Regulations my Department has also appointed an Assigned Certifier for the project.
The role of the Assigned Certifier is to:
(a) provide and sign the relevant statutory certificates - the form of undertaking at commencement and the Certificate of Compliance on Completion;
(b) co-ordinate the ancillary certification by members of the design team and other relevant bodies for the Certificate of Compliance on Completion;
(c) identify all design professionals and specialists, in conjunction with the Builder, from whom certificates are required;
(d) identify all certificates required and obtain them;
(e) co-ordinate and collate all certification of compliance for completion in conjunction with the Builder;
(f) in consultation with the members of the design team, plan and oversee the implementation of the Inspection Plan during Construction;
(g) prepare the Preliminary Inspection Plan and oversee adherence to this plan, and on completion provide the Inspection Plan as implemented;
(h) on termination or relinquishment of their appointment make available to the Building Owner all certification prepared and inspection reports carried out;
(i) act as the single point of contact with the Building Control Authority during construction;
(j) seek advice from the Building Control Authority, in respect of compliance matters relating to the building or works where disputes or differences of opinion arise between the parties to the project; and
(k) maintain records of inspection.
The information provided by the Deputy has been referred to my Department's D&B Project Manager and the Assigned Certifier for investigation. If any problem is found the matter will be resolved under the terms of the Contract prior to the Assigned Certifier presenting the application for certification on the Building Control Management System (BCMS) and prior to handover and occupation of the school.
