PROMOTING AND PROTECTING
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10/05/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
Architects' Alliance of Ireland lodged a submission in relation to the independent review for the registration of professionally trained architects.
The submission was sent to Garrett Fennell Solicitor on the 10th of May 2013. See the website Data Page to access all the documentation.
16/04/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Mr Phil Hogan, T.D., has recently asked Garrett Fennell Solicitor
to conduct an independent review of the arrangements for the registration of Architects under the Building Control Act 2007. Garrett Fennell is currently serving as chairperson of the Admissions Board established for
the Statutory Register.
The terms of reference to the Review are as follows:
1. To carry out an independent review of the arrangements generally for the registration of Architects under the Building Control Act 2007
2. To take stock of the overall experience to date in relation to the operation of the registration system with a view to seeing how the system can be further improved.
3. Having regard to the lower than expected number of applications from practically trained architects, to review and make specific recommendation on how the registration of practically trained architects can be better encouraged.
The AAoI and anyone concerned are invited to make a submission for consideration which should be returned by email on or before 10 May 2013 to architectsreview@environ.ie. It would be appreciated if submissions could be kept as brief as possible
and directly relate to the matters covered by the terms of reference of the review stating the concern or view held and whatever remedies you would recommend to address it. A brief covering letter outlining any relevant matters you wish to bring
to Garrett Fennell's attention may also be included.
Following an analysis of the submissions it may be necessary to meet with some stakeholders to explore in more detail or otherwise clarify the content of their submissions.
You should be advised that any information submitted will be subject to the Freedom of Information Acts and may be placed in the public domain.
Administrative assistance in relation to this review will be provided by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government but Garrett Fennell Solicitor's consideration, treatment and report on the issues raised will be prepared in line with
the Terms of Reference and independently of the Department and the registration body.
12/03/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Dara Calleary TD (Mayo, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 465:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007, by including a genuine grandfather clause, in order to
take special consideration of the situation of long standing practitioners in the field of architecture, who do not, at present hold the necessary accreditation. [7161/13]
07/03/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Seán Kyne TD (Galway West, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 172: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and
Local Government if he will report on the progress, if any, of his request that his Department work with the registration body as envisaged under the Building Control Act and the
proposed Building Control Amendment Regulations to ensure that those working as architects, with many years of experience, are not excluded from the professions owing to the new
qualification requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12276/13]
Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Phil Hogan):
Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 set out statutory arrangements for the registration of Architects. There are no new qualifications requirements. A variety of routes to registration
are provided for in the Act, including specific provision for the registration of practically trained persons who have no formal academic qualifications or education.
I share the concerns of those who feel that the number of applications to date from practically-trained architects is less than might reasonably be expected notwithstanding the provision
in that regard in the Act. I have recently asked Mr Garret Fennell, Solicitor, who is currently serving as the Chairperson of the Admissions Board relevant to the register of Architects,
to carry out an independent review of the experience to date in relation to the operation of the register with a view to identifying any further improvements that can be made at this point.
I have particularly asked for his recommendations or views on how the registration of practically trained architects can be further encouraged.
28/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party), PQ 177: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government
if his attention has been drawn to the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2012, as per draft available on his Department's website, will allow one person to design, construct
and certify a building and his views on whether this is reasonable to ensure public safety. [10856/13]
26/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Billy Timmins TD (Wicklow, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 434: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government the position regarding concerns at the proposed changes to the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9661/13]
Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government (Deputy Phil Hogan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 429, 430 and 434 together.
I am currently finalising the Building Control Amendment Regulations 2013 for signature into law following a comprehensive public consultation process undertaken in 2012. Persons who are on the registers
of Architects and Building Surveyors established in accordance with the Building Control Act 2007 or who are Chartered Engineers may sign the statutory certificates of compliance for designers and for assigned
certifiers that will be introduced under the new regulations. Depending on their background and experience , members of the Architects Alliance may qualify for consideration for inclusion on the register of Architects
or on the register of Building Surveyors which, as indicated, would also enable them to sign the statutory certificates being introduced under the new regulations. The new regulations will provide for a transition period
of 12 months which will, among other things, give sufficient time for eligible persons who have not already done so to apply for registration. The transition period will also provide for a smooth transition to the new requirements
in terms of projects currently on site. The arrangements for the registration of Architects and Building Surveyors under the Building Control Act 2007 are open, transparent and fair for potential candidates from a variety
of backgrounds including those who are practically trained and have limited or no academic training or qualifications. I am satisfied that the statutory arrangements for registration that are currently in place are appropriate and
I have no proposals to amend the Act presently.
I understand that the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Arts and Culture has recently been giving some consideration to the arrangements that are in place for t the registration of practically trained architects
under the Act of 2007. I look forward to considering the Committee’s conclusions and recommendations in due course. My own view as outlined above is that the existing statutory position is fair and reasonable but that it may be opportune
at this point to consider what practical steps can be taken to facilitate and support practically trained people who are interested in doing so to pursue the opportunities for registration that are open to them under the Act.
I have asked my Department, in conjunction with the RIAI as registration body for the Register of Architects, to meet with members of the Architects Alliance to discuss further the concerns raised in the correspondence supplied.
26/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD (Dublin Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 430: To ask the Minister
for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will defer signing the new Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2012 until the report from the Environment Committee is published;
if he will give due consideration to the Alliance paper (details supplied) and non-registered architects' concerns over the pending legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[9551/13]
26/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Billy Timmins TD (Wicklow, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 429: To ask the Minister for the
Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding concerns at the proposed changes to the Building Control Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[9550/13]
26/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Éamon Ó Cuív TD (Galway West, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Agriculture, Food and Community Affairs)to
Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 439: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to introduce a provision for a grandfather clause under the Building Control
Bill and its regulations to ensure that persons with experience and a long standing reputation in the business may continue to operate as architects and use that title; and in particular that
they will be qualified to provide building certification services under the Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9706/13]
20/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 173: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government, if he will give consideration to the submission from the Architects Alliance regarding self certification which was submitted on 14 February 2013.
[9175/13]
20/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 172: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government, if he will defer the signing of new building control regulations until he receives the paper from the Environment Committee. [9174/13]
14/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD (Dublin North East, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 247: To ask
the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he is planning to sign the Statutory Instrument that will introduce the Building Control (Amendment) Act 2012;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7768/13]
06/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Finian McGrath TD (Dublin North Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 139: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) relating to the Building Control Bill. [6248/13]
06/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD (Kildare South, Fianna Fáil Whip; Spokesperson on Constitutional Reform; Arts and Culture,
and Defence) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 131: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider issues raised in correspondence (details supplied);
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6526/13]
05/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Gerry Adams TD (Louth, Sinn Féin) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 558: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he has considered amending the Building Control Act 2007 by including a grandfather clause to deal with issues affecting long standing practitioners
in the field of architecture who do not hold the necessary official certification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5144/13]
05/12/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Senator Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Public Expenditure) to Deputy Fergus O'Dowd,
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government: I am delighted to have this opportunity to raise this matter on the Adjournment and thank my colleagues
for not availing of the opportunity too often, which lets me in by default much of the time. This issue relates to the proposal for a so-called grandfather clause with regard to people who can
practise as architects. What is the Government doing on this issue? This has been an issue for some time, but the current registration process is time limited and concerns people who are not
members of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland but who effectively do the same job and get the same recognition. I understand this has become more of an issue as banks have tightened
up with regard to who can certify planning permission applications, certificates of compliance with building regulations and other general structural assessments of property.
It is only right that banks tighten up on this, as there has been too much laxity in recent years. However, there are many people who can do the same job as an officially qualified architect
and who have been recognised as qualified until now. What is the Government position on this situation, because there are many practitioners who do not have the official qualifications who are
finding the current situation very difficult?
05/12/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Senator Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Public Expenditure) I thank the Minister
of State for (his) clarification, but I intend to pursue the issue. The registration fee is very high and only a small number of people have gone through the process. Making the process
more accessible would not just help those who would qualify under the process but would also help consumers.
28/11/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD (Dublin North East, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 172: To ask the Minister for
the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act to address the grandfather clause whereby trained and qualified architects who are effectively
being prevented from registering to use that title due to the excessive registration fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53169/12]
28/10/2012 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Alliance issued an introductory paper on the Grandfather Clause to the Environment Committee (see DATA page or
Click Here to access the PDF file).
10/10/2012 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Working Group established by the Joint Committee on the Environment held its first meeting today.
10/10/2012 NEWS
Former Chair of the Environment Committee, Ciarán Lynch TD, was elected Chairman of the Committee on Finance, Public
Expenditure and Reform.
09/10/2012 NEWS
Deputy Michael McCarthy accepted his nomination as the new Chair of the Environment Committee:- "I am delighted that Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore has chosen me
to chair this important and interesting committee. I look forward to taking up this position shortly and to working on the extensive programme of work that will be required by the new role."
07/10/2012 NEWS
A third complaint against RIAI Limited is being examined by the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement.
13/09/2012 EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Phil Prendergast MEP received this answer from Mr Barnier on behalf of the European Commission
(ref E-007522/2012) : - The Commission has proposed that new minimum training requirements become the basis for automatic recognition of architectural qualifications two years after the deadline for the
transposition of the amended Directive. Architects eligible for automatic recognition under the current rules whose training started before that date would benefit from an acquired rights regime.
28/08/2012 EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Nessa Childers MEP received this answer from Mr Barnier on behalf of the European Commission (ref P-007738/2012) :
- Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications only concerns professionals who wish to move to another Member State. It does not apply when they seek to practice in the same country in which they
obtained their qualifications. The Commission's joint answer to questions E-012450/2011 and E-000673/2012 reflects this principle in stating that persons who do not meet the minimum training requirements of Article 46
"would not be able to benefit from the automatic recognition of their qualifications in another Member State". The solution is different for a few health professions, such as doctors, according to Article 21 (6)
of Directive 2005/36/EC. Consequently, the Directive does not restrict the terms of any national law provisions applicable to architects qualified in the territory of the Member State in question.
22/08/2012 EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Phil Prendergast MEP received an answer from Mr Barnier on behalf of the
European Commission (ref E-007478/2012):- The Commission is aware of a number of questions with regards to the compatibility of the Irish Building Control Act 2007 with EU law. It has already undertaken a
detailed investigation which is on-going. In this context, the Commission will also consider all the points raised by the Honourable Member and will inform the Honourable Member of the outcome as soon as
possible.
19/07/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD (Dublin Central, Independent), PQ 488:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that legislation in countries such as France and the Netherlands provided
automatic registration to self-taught architects through acquired rights; his views on whether self-taught architects from Ireland are discriminated on in this instance; and his plans to remedy
this problem [36178/12]
18/07/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
James Bannon TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael), PQ 224:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the registration arrangement currently provided for in the Building Control Act 2007 in respect of the
grandfather clause relating to practically trained persons providing architectural services here; if he is prepared to allow the Architects’ Alliance of Ireland the opportunity to address this issues;
the way this may be done; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35560/12]
17/07/2012 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Joint Committee on the Environment agreed to establish an informal working group to request the Minister for Environment,
Community and Local Government to take special consideration of the situation of long-standing practitioners in the field of architecture who do not, at present, hold the necessary official certification.
That he work with all the stakeholders to provide a solution, on a strictly once-off basis, whereby these practitioners can have their skills assessed and where these are found to be of the required standard, can be duly certified.
That he ensure that relevant experience, gained abroad, is included in the process, subject of course to it being relevant and verifiable. That he ensure that this process is open, fair and transparent and that the costs involved
are reduced to the minimum possible and that any unnecessary costs, administration and red tape are avoided.
The Committee agreed the informal working group would be comprised of:
Deputy Luke Flanagan IND; Deputy Sandra McLellan SF; Deputy Gerald Nash LAB; Senator Cáit Keane FG.
04/07/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Dominic Hannigan TD (Meath East, Labour), PQ 188: To ask the Minister for the
Environment, Community and Local Government his plans for the Building Control Act and its regulation of the architecture profession; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[32760/12]
03/07/2012 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Joint Committee on the Environment invited the RIAI and Architects’ Alliance to debate on the registration of self-taught
architects who are still the subjects of discriminative procedures. The committee was informed by Anthony M. Collins S.C., expert in European Law, that a grandfather clause for architects would not be in breach
of European Law. To access the meeting video press here.
To access the meeting transcript press here.
06/06/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD (Dublin North East, Fine Gael) PQ 602: To ask the Minister for the
Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the registration of architects (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26873/12]/font>
03/05/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Arthur Spring TD (Kerry, North-West Limerick, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 496: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government - when he will appoint nominations to an independent Professional Conduct Committee in view of the fact that
legislation was introduced in the Building Control Act in 2008 to provide for the establishment of the Professional Conduct Committee on a statutory basis to deal
with the registration and regulation of architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20128/12]
27/04/2012 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
An important members' meeting of the Architects' Alliance of Ireland has been called for the 12th May 2012.
17/04/2012 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Environment Joint Oireachtas Committee, in response to the European Commissioner's February statement,
decided to invite the Alliance to make a second presentation.
14/04/2012 NEWS
The public consultation process began in regard to the proposed Certification Regime (prompted by the Priory Hall debacle).
For more information click here.
The deadline for receipt of submissions and comments is 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, 24th May 2012.
29/03/2012 EUROPEAN NEWS
The European Ombudsman is investigating a decision from the European Commission in respect of sections 21 and 22
of the Building Control Act 2007. The requirement for 10 years of experience to be gained fully in the Republic of Ireland is one of the criteria for registration through the Technical Assessment
and it appears to be the subject of the investigation. It is claimed by a complainant that the national restriction imposed on experience is in breach of European Law as it discriminates
against workers from other European states.
28/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Sandra McLellan TD (Cork East, Sinn Féin) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 189:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the grandfathering clause for architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[17100/12]
27/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Gerry Adams TD (Louth, Sinn Féin) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 414: To ask the
Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government he will consider an amendment to the Building Control Act 2007 to allow the inclusion of a Grandfather clause in the legislation
to facilitate architects who are not members of the RIAI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16652/12]
21/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD (Dublin Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 390: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the European Commission clarification (details supplied) on the grandfather
clause for unregistered architects; if he acknowledges the significance of the clarification with regards to architect legislation; if he accepts there is a need to address this clarification
immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15636/12]
21/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Seán Kenny TD (Dublin North East, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 363:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends to review the Building Control Act 2007. [15287/12]
21/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Finian McGrath TD (Dublin North Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 356: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence regarding a grandfathering clause for architects (details supplied) [15090/12]
21/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Brian Stanley TD (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Féin) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 354:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the EC clarification on the grandfathering clause aimed at allowing persons who
have several years' experience of practising as an architect but who do not have a formal college qualification to be admitted to the official register of architects; if he intends
legislating for the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15088/12]
15/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 91:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, noting the European Commission response to Question E-012450/2011 regarding the right of building designers whose
qualifications do not meet the Article 46 requirements (BCA 2007) to use the title architect in this State, including any persons whose qualifications would be subject to a grandfather clause,
if he will amend BCA 2007 to include a grandfather clause for members of an organisation (details supplied). [14814/12]
15/03/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 90:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, noting the European Commission response to Question E-012450/2011 regarding the right of building designers
whose qualifications do not meet the Article 46 requirements (BCA 2007) to use the title architect in this State, including any persons whose qualifications would be subject to a grandfather clause,
if he will meet with building designers (details supplied) seeking an amendment of BCA 2007 to include such a grandfather clause. [14813/12
28/02/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael McGrath TD (Cork South Central, Fianna Fáil) to Minister
Phil Hogan TD, PQ 473: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007 to give recognition to so-called grandfather
architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10724/12
21/02/2012 EUROPEAN NEWS
Michel Barnier, European Commissioner,
confirmed that an Irish Grandfather Clause for acquired-rights architects is permitted under European Law. The Commissioner's statement absolutely contradicts
the harmful but widely accepted legal opinion published last year by RIAI Ltd. (See DATA page for full text)
01/02/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 126: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5838/12]
17/01/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 337: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 133 of 30 November 2011, if his attention has been drawn to the fact the Royal College of Architects
of Ireland considers that the fee reduction will apply for a period of time; if it is his understanding also that this reduction will apply only for a limited time; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[2164/12]
11/01/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD (Dublin Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 514: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community
and Local Government if the technical assessment directly tests the practical elements of architecture rather than theory based on the student curriculum; if it directly tests the capabilities of unregistered architects
who have been long out of third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40839/11]
11/01/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Jack Wall TD (Kildare South, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 521: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local
Government his views in regard to the attached submission (details supplied); the action he plans or is proposing in regard to each proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[41057/11]
11/01/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 536: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community
and Local Government in respect of unregistered architects, under section 17 of the Building Control Act 2007, subsection (3), if he will define verified hardship for those who may seek a waiver to the technical
assessment fees; the exact time frame for which the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland has agreed to reduce the technical assessment fees from €6,300 to €4,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[41278/11]
20/12/2011 NEWS
- Jan O'Sullivan TD (Limerick City, Labour) was appointed Minister of State for Housing & Planning.
10/12/2011 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Architects' Alliance Open Meeting of Self-taught Architects in Ireland at 2h30 pm, Killeshin Hotel, Dublin Road, Portlaoise, County Laois.
This is to be an Open Meeting for all disenfranchised architects - which includes those with relevant third level qualifications, membership of professional construction industry bodies and those who are entirely
self-taught. However, any Grandfather Clause is expected to be limited to those who have made their livings as architects for over 7/10 years, whether salaried or self-employed.
PRESS HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER ONLINE
13/12/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Joe Costello TD (Dublin Central, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 287: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will reply to correspondence (details supplied) regarding Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39451/11]
06/12/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Robert Troy TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 251: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007 as was previously initiated by the 30th Dáil and which had
cross-party support at the time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38915/11]
29/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
James Bannon TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 371:
To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of applicants in total that have been rejected from sitting the technical assessment exam after paying the
initial fee under the Building Control Act 2007, Part 3: Architects, since its enactment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37570/11]
29/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Bernard Durkan TD (Kildare North, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 367: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his future plans, if any, to amend the Building Control Act 2007 to facilitate the use of the title
“architect” by self-trained architects who were in operation throughout the country prior to the introduction of the Act and who have been disenfranchised by not being permitted to use the
title while performing the same function as architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37501/11]
29/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
James Bannon TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD,
PQ 374: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when will the 2010 annual report, which is stipulated in section 73 of the Building Control Act 2007: Architects,
be published and put on sale, taking into account that it is now November 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37573/11]
PQ 373: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of applicants who have failed the technical assessment exam under the Building Control Act 2007,
Part 3: Architects, since its enactment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37572/11]
PQ 372: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of applicants who have passed the technical assessment exam under the Building Control Act 2007,
Part 3: Architects, since its enactment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37571/11]
PQ 370: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of persons in total that have applied for technical assessment under the Building Control Act 2007,
Part 3: Architects, since its enactment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37569/11]
22/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michelle Mulherin TD to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 343: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will give his assurance that the registration fee for architects, building surveyors and quantity surveyors, as outlined in the Building Control Act 2007,
sections 17(1), 31(1) and 45(1), will be used solely for the purpose of registering an applicant with the relevant registration body and that no element of the registration fee will be used for membership
fees or other administrative costs of the registration bodies. [35444/11]
22/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 359: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he recognises the conflict of interests inherent in the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland while it represents and promotes registered architects, advises the
Government on building issues and protects the consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35752/11]
15/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Luke Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 412: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government his views that the costly and non-inclusive routes for the registration of architects with acquired rights constitutes the sheltering of the architecture profession
and that the State, the public and consumers are thereby ill-served by Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34673/11]
15/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Luke Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 411: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will amend the Building Control Act 2007 to include a grandfather clause for those with acquired rights and so enable them to continue to certify as architects
in the State without being criminalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34672/11]
15/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Luke Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 410: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the €4,500 technical assessment fee for architects under the Building Control Act 2007 makes that assessment the most
costly of its type in the world; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34671/11]
15/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Luke Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 409: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he has estimated the cost to domestic consumers of removing a significant number of architects from the market through the absence of a standard grandfather clause
in part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34670/11]
15/11/2011 NEWS
- Willie Penrose TD, Minister of State for Housing & Planning resigns over a constituency issue
15/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Luke Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 408: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Building Control Act 2007 has created a situation whereby the dominant representative association (details supplied)
is also the regulating body for that profession, contrary to the specific recommendations of the Competition Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34669/11]
10/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 134: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33893/11]
10/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 131: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33874/11]
08/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 324: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will acknowledge the role RIAI certified architects play in the design of buildings according to fire safety regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[32774/11]
08/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 323: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to address the non-representation of non-registered architects within the Building Regulations Advisory Body; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[32773/11]
03/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Nicky McFadden TD to Minister Hogan, PQ 108: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government
the number of persons who have applied for technical assessment under the Building Control Act 2007 since its introduction; the number of applications in total that have been rejected from sitting the
technical assessment after paying the initial fee; the number of applicants that have passed the technical assessment exam; the number of applicants who have failed the technical assessment exam; the date
on which the 2010 annual report which is stipulated in section 73 of the Building Control Act 2007 will be published and be made available to the public taking into account that it is now November 2011.
[32572/11]
02/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Alex White TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 303: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if it is planned to amend the Building Control Act 2007 to insert a grandfather clause with a view to allowing experienced self-taught architects to use the term architect
in carrying out their business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32394/11]
02/11/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Brendan Griffin TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 293: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32247/11]
02/11/2011 REGISTRATION NEWS
News from the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement:- "This office has been in further contact with the company (RIAI Ltd)
and they have made the required changes in order to comply with The European Communities (Companies) (Amendment) Regulations 2007.". It must be noted that RIAI Ltd was in breach of European Law since 1997.
27/10/2011 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
The Irish Times publishes an Alliance letter: "After Priory Hall"
- Access the Press Article -
26/10/2011 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Alliance Member Tom Byrne receives a Commendation in the Single House in the Open Countryside category of the Clare County Council
Design and Conservation Awards Scheme 2011.
21/10/2011 NEWS
Minister Phil Hogan announces plans for mandatory certification in 2012:- "A MANDATORY certification process to ensure adequate standards
in houses and apartments is to be introduced" - Access the Press Article -
20/10/2011 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Alliance Member Joe Fallon is shortlisted for the CMG "Architectural Practice of the Year" Award
12/10/2011 NEWS
Priory Hall debacle becomes a major embarrassing news for the Irish Building Control system.
04/10/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Finian McGrath TD TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 433: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he will address the concerns of an alliance (details supplied). [27264/11]
27/09/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 355: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government his plans to amend or review the Building Control Act 2007 to take account of persons who have long practised as architects but who do not meet the requirements of the Act;
his plans to provide for an independent investigation into the appropriateness and fairness of the Act as it applies to such persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26220/11]
27/09/2011 NEWS
Architects' Alliance presentation to the Technical Group of Independent Deputies.
14/09/2011 REGISTRATION NEWS
Minister Phil Hogan prescribes the Technical Assessment fee at €4,500.
14/09/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 572: To ask the Minister
for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 255 of 14 May 2011, the position regarding his review of the fees charged for registration as
an architect. [23460/11]
14/09/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Willie O'Dea TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 554: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local
Government his plans to provide a technical assessment for architects, similar to that already provided for the grandfather surveyors under the Building Control Act 2007. [23223/11]
14/09/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 550: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local
Government the position regarding the registration of architects as laid out under Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007. [23205/11]
19/07/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Joanna Tuffy TD (Dublin Mid West, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 373: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government the position regarding the submission made to him in July 2010 from Engineers Ireland on the regulation of the engineering profession here; if this submission has been considered by him;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21390/11]
15/07/2011 REGISTRATION NEWS
EU Pilot Procedure announced to investigate the Irish registration system rules for Directive-rights architects
30/06/2011 REGISTRATION NEWS
A newly devised RIAI Ltd certificate is now required before Directive-rights Irish architects can avail of mutual recognition
15/06/2011 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Alliance Members Adrian Turner & Joe Fallon have projects published in PLAN Magazine
08/06/2011 REGISTRATION NEWS
Minister Phil Hogan appoints members to the Professional Conduct Committee and the Appeals Boards under Part 3 of the BCA 2007
01/06/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Eric Byrne TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 154: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in relation to the
Building Control Act 2007, if he is committed to ensuring that a grandfather clause is implemented as regards Part 3 of the Act; if he will confirm that an independent auditing group for architects is established as opposed to the RIAI; and if
he will ensure that a grandfather clause is instituted and that members of the Architects Alliance of Ireland are allowed to continue to practice and use the title architect. [13767/11]
01/06/2011 NEWS
Ciarán Lynch TD is appointed as Chairperson of the Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht
31/05/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 234: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Community and Local Government if he has received communication from the European Commission through the EU pilot system in relation to the compatibility of section 22 of the Building Control Act 2007 with European law on free movement
of workers; if he has or will reply to this communication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13654/11]
24/05/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 255: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community
and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 19 April 2011, the status of his reply to the correspondence referred to therein. [12846/11]
03/05/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
John McGuinness TD to Minister Phil Hogan (answered by Minister of State Willie Penrose), PQ399: To ask the Minister
for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 65 of the 31 March 2011, the cost to him of the two boards mentioned; the payments made to each board member and the chairperson; the future
costs of the appeals board and professional practice committee once appointed; if he has considered a more cost effective and efficient way of dealing with this type of registration in view of the fact that to date there is only
one application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9310/11]
19/04/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD to Minister Phil Hogan (answered by Minister of State Willie Penrose) PQ212: To ask the Minister for
the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding aspects of the Building Control Act 2007 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8514/11]
31/03/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
John McGuinness TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ 65: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government under
the Building Control Act 2007, Part 3, the person who appoints the stage 3 interview board and the technical assessment board relevant to the evaluation process for applications; if the appeals board has been set up and if so, if he will
name the board members and their qualifications; the number of appeals outstanding and the number of appeals dealt with; the time frame for each appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
24/03/2011 POLITICAL DEBATE
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD to Minister Phil Hogan, PQ58 : To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government
his plans to amend the Building Control Act to address the situation facing trained and qualified architects who are effectively being prevented from registering to use that title due to the excessive registration fee;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5582/11
29/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS 18/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS 16/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS 11/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE 05/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
27/10/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE 21/10/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS 09/10/2010 MEMBERS'MEETING
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
18/03/2011 EUROPEAN NEWS
A detailed submission was made by the Alliance in response to the European Commission's Public Consultation on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications Directive.
That submission can be read HERE. The submission included an analysis of an Experience Report compiled by RIAI LTD as part of an official evaluation of the Professional Qualifications Directive.
That report can be read HERE..
10/03/2011 NEWS
31st Dáil - The Architects' Alliance of Ireland has pleasure in congratulating Deputy Willie Penrose on his appointment as Minister of State for Housing and Planning.
The Alliance looks forward to Minister Penrose's support in correcting the deficiencies in the Building Control Act 2007 that were identified by the Environment JOC at its Hearing of the 20th May 2010.
09/03/2011 NEWS
31st Dáil - The Architects' Alliance of Ireland has pleasure in congratulating Deputy Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) on his appointment as the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in the 31st Dáil.
The Alliance looks forward to Minister Hogan correcting the deficiencies in the Building Control Act 2007 that were identified by the Environment JOC at its Hearing of the 20th May 2010.
20/01/2011 EUROPEAN NEWS
The European Directorate for Education and Culture is organizing public consultations which are relevant to the registration of architects. The
subjects of these consultations are "the Recognition of Professional, Qualifications" and "the Promotion and Validation of non-formal and informal Learning". All citizens and organisations are
welcome to contribute. The goal of the first consultation is aimed at deciding if learning acquired through work and life experience needs to be revalorized within the community, and if so, how
shall it be? The closing date for submissions is 09/02/2011.You can access more information by clicking HERE. The second consultation is aimed at gathering views on a modernisation of the
Professional Qualifications Directive (Directive 2005/36/EC). The closing date for submissions is 15/03/2011. You can access more information by clicking HERE.
A legal Opinion prepared at the request of the Alliance by Mr Anthony M
Collins SC was submitted to the Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government. Mr Collins wrote: "I conclude that there is no conflict between the provisions of the Bill and the law
of the European Union, notably the Directive". The Minister's office confirmed that Mr Collins' Opinion will be passed to the Attorney-General's office for his advice. You can access the legal
opinion HERE.
News from the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement
The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Limited was forced to admit to its persistent failure to properly disclose its true status - which is that of a Limited Company. The limited
liability of its 2,800 or so members is One Euro per person. The obligation to disclose limited liability and the names of company directors is made under both the Companies Act and European law.
The Director of Corporate Enforcement has accepted the company's assurance that it will henceforth use only fully compliant letterheads and websites. It seems that those legal disclosures have
always been eschewed by RIAI Ltd.
"GRANDFATHER" AMENDMENT ENDORSED. The Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party gave its
overwelming support to the Building Control (Amendment) Bill 2010. The Bill provides for the inclusion of a standard Grandfather Clause for architects in the Building Control Act 2007. Thanks to
Deputy Máire Hoctor's successful Motion, the Bill has now progressed to formal examination by the Attorney-General. This is another hugely significant advance in the Alliance
campaign.
A significant meeting took place between the Alliance and Mr Gavin Daly, Special Advisor
to Minister Ciarán Cuffe. Among the matters discussed was a widely circulated legal Opinion prepared by Mr Gerard Hogan SC on behalf of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland. Mr
Hogan had concluded that the Building Control (Amendment) Bill 2010, if enacted, "would plainly be unlawful as contrary to requirements of EU law". The Alliance indicated its opposition and was
invited to make a submission in writing for passing onto the Attorney-General. Also flagged were the procedural defects in the Building Control Act itself and the continuing harm caused by the
premature opening of the Statutory Register for Architects.
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 244: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007 to take cognisance of a newly created category of architect (details supplied) and the impact that category has on Section 14(4)
of the Act; if so, the further amendments he envisages making to the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41780/10]
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 243: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm, with particular regard to relevant case law (details supplied), that an architect who is eligible for registration in accordance with section 14(2)(b)
of the Building Control Act 2007, is not obliged, once so registered, to remain a member of the relevant body in order to remain named on the register of architects [41779/10]
Bernard Durkan TD Dáil debate, Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009: "The Building Control Act,
which passed some years ago, was supposed to control, regulate and ensure development took place in an orderly fashion and that consumers and householders, whether renting or purchasing, were protected.
Unfortunately, that did not happen. Nor does it happen yet."
The UK Architects Registration Board (ARB) faces a long anticipated challenge over the
disjuncture between the UK registration rules for UK Graduates compared to the easier rules it is obliged to apply to other EU graduates. See
article.
Joe McHugh TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 480: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage
and Local Government his plans to amend the 2007 Building Control Act; if the requirements for inclusion on the Register of Architects will be changed; if any relevant secondary legislation or statutory instrument
is envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38525/10]
A private complaint pointing to a potential breach of European Law by Section 22 of the
Building Control Act 2007 is being pursued by the European Commission.
A general meeting of the Alliance took place in Portlaoise to discuss lobbying and other business.
Alliance meetings with the Royal Institute are underway.
Alan Shatter TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 1491: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the Private
Member's Bill published by Deputy O'Donoghue to amend the Building Control Act 2007; if he intends to introduce his own Bill further addressing the registration of architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33034/10]
Michael Ring TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 1486: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will move a Bill
(details supplied) or amend the 2007 Act with particular reference to a certain clause; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32938/10]
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 1458: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he plans to amend the Building Control Act 2007 or move the Building Control (Amendment) Bill 2010 published by Deputy John O'Donoghue; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[32170/10]
Finian McGrath TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 1447: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will support
a matter (details supplied). [32021/10]
13/09/2010 EUROPEAN NEWS
A Stakeholder response was made by the Alliance to the European Commission's questionnaire on the Services Directive. The response document can be read HERE.
20/08/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
ODCE Complaint - The Alliance lodged a formal complaint to the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement regarding RIAI Limited's persistent failure to comply with the Company Law and EU Law
disclosure rules for companies limited by guarantee.
07/08/2010 MEMBERS'MEETING
A general meeting of the Alliance took place in Portlaoise to review progress and for other business. An Executive Committee was elected.
16/07/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
Former Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue TD introduced a Private Member's Bill to amend the Building Control Act 2007. The Building Control (Amendment) Bill 2010
provides a “grandfather clause” to enable long established, self-trained architects to reclaim their status. Mr O’Donoghue said the Bill would “prevent hundreds of working
architects from losing out on their official status because they pursued a different route to qualification”.
The Architects Alliance is delighted by Mr. O'Donoghue's initiative which will restore competition and consumer choice to the profession whilst correcting the injustices of the new registration
regime. A lobbying programme in support of the Bill is now being prepared by the Alliance.
08/07/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Damien English TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 19: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will appear before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Heritage and Local Government following the invitation formally issued by the Committee on 18 May 2010
to discuss the Building Control Act 2007 and the problems suffered by practically trained architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30547/10]
22/06/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
James Reilly TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 423: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government his plans to address the concerns of an organisation (details supplied) regarding promoting diversity and choice in architecture; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[26915/10]
22/06/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 412: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he has received an invitation from the Joint Committee on Environment, Heritage and Local Government to appear before it to answer questions on the problems arising
with architects from the imposition of the Building Control Act; if he has indicated if he will appear before the committee and when the committee can expect a response; and if he will make a statement
on the matter. [26778/10]]
15/06/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 438: To ask the Minister
for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm that an Irish national is obliged to obtain UK citizenship to be assured of registration as an architect in his
home State here (details supplied). [25523/10]
12/06/2010 MEMBERS' MEETING
A general meeting of the Alliance took place in Portlaoise to review progress and
other business. A temporary Steering Committee was formed.
02/06/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Chris Andrews TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 163: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he is considering the inclusion of a grandfather clause in the Building Control Act 2007, to counter the unintended impact that the implementation of Part 3 of the Act
may have on some professionals in the area. [23705/10]
18/05/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD (Fine Gael's Spokesman on Environment, Heritage & Local Government)
tabled the closing resolution made by the Chair of today's Hearing at the Joint Committee on the Environment: "We will invite the Minister to come before the joint committee to discuss these issues."
18/05/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
Today's Joint Committee on the Environment Hearing was a resounding success for
Architects' Alliance and for all architects disenfranchised by Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007.
Thanks are due to the committee members and to the four "non-committee" Deputies who also made time to study the issues, attend and speak. Maureen O'Sullivan TD, who was present as an independent
observer, has sent us a strong message of support.
The JOC determined that ordinary, decent standards should be applied to us, in place of the extraordinary, costly and uncertain provisions of the Act. Some JOC questions were unanswered because
time was limited. We will revert to the JOC in writing after the Minutes have been published. The Hearing closed with a JOC decision to request the attendance of the Minister in order to progress
the urgent question of a Grandfather Clause.>
12/05/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Mary Upton TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 217: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19509/10]
07/05/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
As a result of lobbying by
Architects' Alliance, the Joint Committee on the Environment has decided to call a meeting to consider the difficulties arising from Part 3 of the BCA 2007 and the absence of a Grandfather Clause
in the Act. This is not speculation, it is now verifiable, public information. Architects' Alliance has asked that in addition to making its own presentation, the committee should consider
inviting RIAI Ltd and the Competition Authority asked to keep its presentation confined to 10 minutes, and a general question and answer session will ensue for the following 50
minutes.
27/04/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Fergus O'Dowd TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 325: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16688/10]
27/04/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Mary Upton TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 322: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16520/10]
27/04/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Finian McGrath TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 318: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will support a matter (details supplied). [16437/10]
19/04/2010 NEWS
Following complaints from AA members
and others, the National Consumer Agency has withdrawn a web page that encouraged consumers to employ only architects approved by RIAI Ltd and to avoid their competitors. The NCA is now reviewing
its position.
15/04/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Competition Authority has replied to Architects' Alliance's complaints
against the registration procedure. One of the numerous replies to our members can be
accessed by clicking HERE. The Competition Authority acknowledges the wrong doings of RIAI ltd, but does not have the power to take action against the
regulator.
14/04/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD (Fine Gael's Spokesman on Environment, Heritage & Local Government)
responded to Alliance lobbying by making a formal request to the Joint Committee on the Environment: "In response to this correspondence I have written to the Chairman of the Joint Oireachtas
Committee on Environment, Heritage and Local Government to arrange a meeting with representatives from the RIAI, the Architects' Alliance and with officials from the Department of Environment,
Heritage and Local Government in order to put these grievances on the public record and to seek possible solutions."
08/04/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Law Society Gazette published an article from Architects’ Alliance to express members’ concerns about the Building Control Act 2007 and its implementation by
RIAI ltd. You can access the article by clicking HERE.
27/03/2010 MEMBERS' MEETING
A members only meeting took place in Portlaoise today. Reports were
delivered and strategy including our next steps were agreed. The formation of regional sub-committees will be encouraged. Minutes of the meeting will be sent to all members, including to those
who could not attend.
09/03/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Brian Hayes TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 356: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the unintended consequence that will follow the enactment and implementation of Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007, which deals
with the protection of the title of architect; and if his attention has been further drawn to the damage to more than 1,000 architects and their families as a result of the enactment of this part of
the Bill in question; his views on an organisation (details supplied) whose members will be given an unfair advantage from this enactment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11397/10]
04/03/2010 REGISTRATION
NEWS
Architects' Alliance prepares a complaint to The Competition Authority related to the inequitable and anti-competitive nature of part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 and its
implementation. Some members have started to meet on a local basis to discuss AA matters. This is a valuable initiative and we particularly encourage others to do the same. Evidence of
anti-competition measures arising from or supported by the implementation of the Act (as distinct from complaining about the contents of the Act) is being
compiled.
04/03/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Paul Kehoe TD to Minister Mary Coughlan, PQ 47: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise,
Trade and Employment the options available to a person who wishes to seek redress for poor delivery of professional services from an architect; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
[10998/10]
04/03/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 127: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 281 of 17 December 2009, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that persons working in the field of architecture in France who are
properly established and ensured taxes were paid for the five years before their cut off date were placed on the register of architects without hindrance; his views regarding the situation here; and if he
will make a statement on the matter. [10967/10]
02/03/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ruairi Quinn TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 428: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will raise the matter of costs of registering as an architect here with an organisation (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the registration
fee here is €490 while in the UK, it is £86; if he will further raise with the organisation the possibility of introducing a separate charge which would include registration but not automatic membership to its
organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10340/10]
01/03/2010 IRISH NEWS
The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland's ruling against the RIAI Ltd advertisements is aired by RTÉ
25/02/2010 REGISTRATON NEWS
Following a complaint lodged by Architects' Alliance, an advertising campaign promoting a new register of architects has been
deemed misleading after the broadcasting watchdog found it implied that "unqualified" architects could not be trusted. More information on this subject is available by clicking HERE
18/02/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 178: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local
Government if he is satisfied with the manner in which the Building Control Act 2007 has been implemented regarding the registration of non-Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland architects; if the new registration
process will be fully completed before officially launching a register of architects; his views on whether the premature launch of this register will have significant consumer choice or market distortion effects; and
if he will make a statement on the matter.
10/02/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 270: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will suspend the progress of Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 to allow further investigation and discussion in view of the concerns on the part of persons that will be
affected if same will be implemented; if he will meet with an organisation (details supplied) to prepare an amendment to the Act to endorse the established status of architect of the organisation in order to allow
an orderly transition to the official register; and if he will consider removing another organisation (details supplied) as the statutory body and replace it with a completely independent registrar.
[7090/10]
09/02/2010 NEWS
The Law Society is maintaining its "10-year Rule" for certification.The caveats are much the same as in the past.
Information and an advice note are to be prepared for issue to AA members.
19/01/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 856: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government when he will appoint the professional conduct committee to deal with matters in relation to the architectural profession; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[48565/09]
17/12/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Liz McManus TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 308: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government his views regarding concerns from practising architects on the delays in the technical assessment process; his further views on the implementation of a new registration scheme
for architects, when the technical assessment process is facing such delays and affects practising architects who cannot register and who do not qualify for automatic registration as an architect; if he will
provide an update on the technical assessment process; if he will introduce a fast tracking system for existing businesses in the assessment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48216/09]
17/12/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Maureen O'Sullivan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 281: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
if he will make an amendment to the Building Control Act 2009 by providing a ministerial list, similar to one made by a Minister in 1997, to allow architects who have been working under law society guidelines for a period of ten years
or more automatic entry to the register similar to those from the 1997 list. [47784/09]
09/12/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 205: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
if his attention has been drawn to radio advertisements by an organisation (details supplied) denigrating, as incompetent, architects who are not registered with that body; if his further attention has been drawn to the negative
impact of such advertisements on experienced architects in legitimate practice who are in the process of registration; if he will take steps to prevent this unfair practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46129/09]
26/11/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Paul Kehoe TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 265: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
his views in view of the recent launch of the register of Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland on whether it is fair and equitable that a RIBA qualified architect practising here will be refused membership of the new register
unless they complete a one-year course at a cost of E11,500 and then apply for membership with another association at a cost of â‚4,500 for a technical assessment; his further views on the fact that these are highly prohibitive
costs for members of an industry which is suffering under the pressures of the current economic climate to find the resources to cover these costs when they are already the holders of an internationally recognised qualification;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43847/09]
05/11/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister John Gormley (answered by Minister of State Michael Finneran),
PQ 205: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has prepared an advice note for companies (details supplied) which, for the past ten, 20 or 30 years have been legally trading under a name,
style or title containing the word "architect"; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39808/09]
13/10/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
George Lee TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 401: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government the reason he has no plans to suspend Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 in view of the hardship that it is causing to architects; and if he will make a statement
on the matter. [35644/09]
06/10/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Alan Shatter TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 1007: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local
Government if he will meet an organisation (details supplied) to discuss with them their concerns about Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007; the consideration given by him to date to their concerns; and if he will make
a statement on the matter. [34372/09]
06/10/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
George Lee TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 965: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local
Government his views on suspending Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007, in view of the effect it is having on experienced architects (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[33256/09]
24/09/2009 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ciarán Lynch TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 102: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local
Government when Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 will be implemented; the provision which is being made to take account of the concerns raised by practising architects who are not members
of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland in regard to the registration process; if consideration has been given to the grandfather rule, as implemented in other jurisdictions; and if he will
make a statement on the matter. [32833/09]
../06/2009 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Alliance Member Tom Byrne and his team partner Kostas Wootis win the Green Apple Conservation Award
for the Built Environment (England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland)
18/12/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Martin Ferris TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 297 - To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
his view on the number of architects qualifying under the technical assessment pilot scheme. [47493/08]
08/05/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 558: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that
the simultaneous commencement of Sections 18 and 21 of the Building Control Act 2007 has had the effect of causing practising architects to be in breach of the law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17227/08]
08/05/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 557: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will revoke Statutory Instrument No. 50 of 2008 and ensure that any further commencement of Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 will be on a phased basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[17226/08]
08/05/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 556: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that failure to delay the commencement of Section 18 of the Building Control Act 2007, until such time as the Technical Assessment Board is ready to receive applications
has had the effect of causing practising architects to be in breach of the law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17225/08]
01/05/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 192: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government when the proper technical board will be set up to vet new membership to the Royal Institute of Architects Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17025/08]
28/04/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 480: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government when he expects Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 to be fully enacted and a technical assessment board to be fully operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[16477/08]
17/04/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Phil Hogan TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 631: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government if he will review the Building Control Act 2007 to remove anomalies regarding membership of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[13843/08]
12/02/2008 POLITICAL DEBATE
Leo Varadkar TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 608: To ask the Minister for the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government the recommendations of the Competition Authority regarding architects that he has implemented to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4681/08]
11/12/2007 POLITICAL DEBATE
Leo Varadkar TD to Minister John Gormley, PQ 933: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local
Government the response by his Department to the recommendations made to his Department by the Competition Authority in its March 2006 report on competition in the architecture profession;
and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33318/07]
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