Friday 29 July 2022

Engineers Ireland has welcomed the Report of the Working Group to Examine Defects in Housing, published on July 28, by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD.  

Engineers Ireland was represented on the Working Group who were tasked with delivering on the commitment in the Programme for Government to examine defects in housing having regard to the recommendations of the joint oireachtas committee on housing report 'Safe as Houses?' The group examined key areas relating to fire safety, structural safety, and water ingress in purpose-built apartment and duplex buildings constructed in Ireland between 1991 and 2013.

Lodging specific observations

Engineers Ireland availed of the opportunity to make submissions, lodging specific observations on the key defects being examined, while highlighting the importance of regulation for the protection of public safety. 

Having consulted with a range of stakeholders and interested parties, the Working Group put forward a number of recommendations with the aim of resolving challenges posed by defects and to streamline the process of remediation. These recommendations include establishing registers of competent professionals to provide services in relation to the remedial works process.

Damien Owens, interim director general at Engineers Ireland, said: “Engineers Ireland looks forward to supporting the implementation of the recommendations outlined in the Report of the Working Group to Examine Defects in Housing for the benefit of public safety, health and wellbeing.

“Engineers Ireland has proactively sought greater protection for the public through regulation. Engineers have a tremendous impact on public safety, the environment and the quality of life in the communities where they work. We look forward to supporting Minister O’Brien and working with other professional bodies to support communities negatively impacted by defects during the remediation process."