MARCH 2024 – 34 years on REMINDER FROM THE FAIR TRADE COMMISSION
“There would need to be a 'grandfather' clause for existing, competent practitioners” - The Fair Trade Commission March 1990
DECEMBER 2023 UPDATE – 14 YEARS - STILL NO REGISTRATION ACCOUNTS
On the 17th November 2009, and in accordance with Section 13 of the Building Control Act 2007, the first statutory register of architects was opened by the RIAI.
At Section 73, the Act also mandates, inter alia, that:
(1) A registration body shall, as soon as may be after the end of each year, prepare a report of its proceedings under this Act during that year.
(2) That report shall include a copy of the body’s accounts for the year concerned in so far as they relate to its income and expenditure in respect of the performance of its functions under this Act during that year and those accounts shall be accounts that have been certified by an auditor who has been appointed to carry out an audit of them for the year concerned.
In 14 years as the State's registration body for architects, the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Ltd. has published just three schedules of accounts. Those single page disclosures were described as being “for the purposes of Section 73 of the Building Control Act 2007”.
In each schedule the totals were distorted by the inclusion of non-registration income and expenditure. Perhaps significantly, there was no sign of the auditor's certification required by the Act. The Department continues to find no fault in the RIAI's indisputably incomplete annual “presentation of the relevant income and expenditure”.
SEPTEMBER 2023 UPDATE – THE MISSING GRAND-FATHER CLAUSE
“Regarding architects, Member States can allow professionals to work as architects even if they do not hold qualifications listed in Annex V (5.7.1) to Directive 2005/36/EC” The European Commission 22nd September 2023
JULY 2023 – 10 years on REMINDER FROM THE ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE
The Environment Committee: "The Minister should consider the inclusion of a typical, self-extinguishing) Grandfather Clause (for architects)” (July 2013)
05/02/2019 NINE YEARS AND NO REGISTRATION ACCOUNTS
Michael Healy-Rae TD ((Kerry, Independent): PQ 673: - To ask the Minister for Housing; Planning and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 268 of 23 January 2018, if he will address matters (details supplied) in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5648/19]
{Details: a) if he is aware that not one of the RIAI's 2010 to 2017 reports (alluded to in Written Answer to Question Reference 3359/19) includes the details of income and expenditure which are required by the Building Control Act 2007? and (b) whether those grave omissions will encourage the Minister to bring forward legislation to implement the consumer orientated recommendations of the Fennell Review (commissioned by his Department), especially recommendation #11 which is for the making of an independent, over-arching registration body for all construction professionals?}
Reply from Minister Eoghan Murphy TD (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael):- The Building Control Act 2007 designated the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) as the registration bodies for those professions.
The Fennell Review recommended in 2013 that in the context of any future reviews, consideration might be given to the introduction of an overarching supervisory regulator for the various professional bodies. However, subsequently, the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 were introduced, requiring greater accountability in relation to compliance with Building Regulations in the form of statutory certification of design and construction by registered construction professionals and builders, lodgement of compliance documentation, mandatory inspections during construction and validation and registration of certificates. A Certificate of Compliance on Completion is jointly signed by the builder and the assigned certifier. In effect, the statutory Certificate of Compliance on Completion certifies that a building is compliant with all relevant requirements of the Building Regulations. This has brought an order and discipline in relation to compliance on all construction projects and has enhanced customer confidence in this area; accordingly, I have no plans at this stage to introduce any new arrangements in relation to the registration of architects. As indicated in my reply to Question No. 268 of 23 January 2019, my Department will be reviewing the relevant reporting arrangements in relation to the RIAI's functions under the Building Control Act 2007 in the context of the reporting received in respect of 2018. The Department is currently engaging with the RIAI in this regard to improve the presentation of the relevant income and expenditure in order that there is full transparency in this matter.
23/01/2019 VALIDATION OF ARCHITECTS' REGISTRATION FEES
Michael Healy-Rae TD ((Kerry, Independent): PQ 268:- To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding registration fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3359/19]
(Details: Whether the failure of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland to publish explicit registration accounts in compliance with its obligations under S.73 of the Building Control Act 2007, its duty as a registered charity and normal good practice, suggests, correctly or not, that the registration fees it collects exceed what is permitted by the Act and whether henceforth the Minister's statutory approval of those fees should be subject to the opinion of an independent specialist in order to achieve due transparency?)
Reply from Minister Eoghan Murphy TD (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael): ):- Having regard to the detailed engagement that took place with the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) when the fees referred to were set initially, and again when they were reviewed in 2016, I am satisfied that the fees have been set at an appropriate level in relation to the functions which the RIAI performs under the Building Control Act 2007. It should also be noted that provision exists for fees to be reduced or waived in cases of verified hardship.
The RIAI publishes an annual report each year which is available on its website at the following link: https://www.riai.ie/about/riai_annual_reports/. This includes a certified financial report with details of income and expenditure. In addition, its annual return is filed with the Companies Registration Office. My Department will be reviewing the relevant reporting arrangements in the context of the reporting required in relation to 2018 activity under the 2007 Act.
24/09/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: PRAE II - DEVELOPED PROPOSAL
Following the Leinster House discussion of the 12th September, the AAoI submitted a further development of the PRAE II paper.
15/11/2017 AAoI NEWS
The Annual General Meeting of the Architects' Alliance of Ireland will be held on Saturday 2nd December at the Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise. Signing-in will commence at 10.30am and the meeting will open at 11.00am.
- A light lunch will be provided.
- Ideally, nominations for the new committee will be submitted in advance, but nominations will also be accepted at the meeting.
- You will be asked to make a contribution of €20 on the day.
Please put this date in your diary. The AGM is a members only event - it is not an open meeting.
Members are advised to check their emails for late changes before travelling.
24/09/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: PRAE II - DEVELOPED PROPOSAL
Following the Leinster House discussion of the 12th September, the AAoI submitted a further development of the PRAE II paper.
12/09/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: PROGRESS MEETING WITH MINISTER KEVIN MORAN
The AAoI attended a meeting in Leinster House with Minister of State Deputy Kevin Moran to assess progress in the making of a special entry route via a second Prescribed Register Admissions Examination (PRAE II).
08/09/2017 AAoI NEWS
The spokesperson of the AAoI is invited to the Inaugural CABE Ireland Region BuildEng Conference, which is scheduled to take place at 09.00hrs 29th. September 2017 in the City North Hotel & Conference Centre, Gormanstown, Co. Meath, Ireland. The CABE was founded as the Incorporated Association of Architects and Surveyors (IAAS). The IAAS was among the bodies which opposed a draft bill which was presented to Parliament in 1927 by the Royal Institute of British Architects' (RIBA) Registration Committee in the course of events which resulted in the passing of the UK Architects (Registration) Act 1931. AAoI members will be welcome for a fee of 95 Euro including lunch and refreshments. More information on the conference can be obtained by clicking here.
08/08/2017 DEPARTURE OF RIAI REGISTRAR
The RIAI’s second registrar of architects has resigned after less than 12 months in office. No explanation has been given by the RIAI nor information on how the vacancy is to be filled.
01/06/2017 SELF-REGULATION & SELF-PROTECTION: FIANNA FÁIL MOTION DEBATE
Fiona O'Loughlin TD (Kildare South, Fianna Fáil) (extract) "It is incredible that despite numerous high-profile building failures, there have been no sanctions against architects or surveyors for complaints in the past six years. It is clear that self-regulation of design and construction standards simply does not work."
10/05/2017 SELF-REGULATION & SELF-PROTECTION: PQ132
Barry Cowen TD (Offaly, Fianna Fáil): To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government his views on whether there is an increasing shortage of architect practices located outside of large cities. [21901/17]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): The title of Chartered Engineer is protected by the Institution of Civil Engineers of Ireland (Charter Amendment) Act 1969, while the Building Control Act 2007, among other things, provides for the registration of persons entitled to use the professional titles of Architect and Building Surveyor. Neither I nor my Department has any direct role in the operation of these registers. This is a matter for the professional bodies who have been designated as the relevant competent registration authorities for the purposes of European and National law, namely Engineers Ireland (EI) in respect of the engineering profession, the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) in respect of the architectural profession and the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland (SCSI) in respect of the surveying professions.
09/05/2017 LICENSING REDUCES COMPETITION PQ 246
Barry Cowen TD (Offaly, Fianna Fáil): To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government his views on whether there is an increasing shortage of architect practices located outside of large cities. [21901/17]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): The Building Control Act 2007 provides for a statutory register of architects. This Act confers certain powers on the Minister in respect of the statutory system of registration for architects, such as the appointment of Chairpersons and certain ordinary members of the Admissions Board, the Appeals Board and the Technical Assessment Board. The Minister has no statutory role in relation to provision of architectural services beyond the powers in relation to registration conferred by this Act. Architectural practices are private businesses and may establish their business wherever they see fit. Furthermore the location of an architectural practice does not preclude them from providing services in locations other than their place of establishment.
02/05/2017 RESTORING COMPETITION PQ 467
Jack Chambers TD (Dublin West, Fianna Fáil): To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government his plans to make changes to the Building Control Act; if he is considering a proposal received by a body (details supplied) in this regard; when decisions will be made following consideration of the proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19848/17]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 introduced a system of statutory registration for architects and restricted use of the title architect to persons who are registered architects. Section 22 of the Act makes specific provision for registration based on technical assessment of persons who had been independently performing duties commensurate with those of an architect for a period of 10 or more years in the State prior to the commencement of the Act.
In addition to the provision set out above, Section 14(2)(f) of the Act provides a permanent route to registration for practically trained persons who have 7 years appropriate practical experience and who have passed a prescribed register admission examination (PRAE). There is currently one PRAE available, provided by ARAE Ltd.
I have met with representatives of the organisation referred to on a number of occasions, as part of my efforts to resolve any issues arising in a manner which is acceptable to all parties. The most recent meeting took place on 13 April 2017. My Department and the RIAI, as registration body, are committed to continuing to work with the organisation in question and all other stakeholders to achieve whatever further reasonable and practical improvements in registration arrangements can be made.
13/04/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: MINISTER DAMIEN ENGLISH
The AAoI attended a productive meeting at the Customs House with Minister of State Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD together with his team of four officials. (The previous senior officials, Section Head, Aidan O’Connor MRIAI and his deputy Martin Vaughan having left through retirement and re-allocation respectively.) The meeting was facilitated by Deputy Kevin Moran .
13/04/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: RESTORING COMPETITION PQ 139
Éamon Ó Cuív TD (Galway West, Fianna Fáil) PQ 139: To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he will consider amending Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 or section 14(2) of this Act to ensure that the grandfather clause in respect of longstanding architects will be amended to allow them use the title "architect"; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18980/17]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 introduced a system of statutory registration for architects and restricted use of the title architect to persons who are registered architects. Section 22 of the Act makes specific provision for registration based on technical assessment of persons who had been independently performing duties commensurate with those of an architect for a period of 10 or more years in the State prior to the commencement of the Act. This is in effect what is often colloquially referred to as a grandfather clause. {This is feigned ignorance of a standard, legally established principle – Ed.} In 2013, in response in particular to the lower than anticipated rate of applications for registration by technical assessment, an independent review of the arrangements in place for registration was undertaken by Mr Garret Fennell, Solicitor. Mr Fennell’s report on the matter is available at:
http://www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/migrated-files/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/BuildingStandards/FileDownLoad%2C34097%2Cen.pdf
The Joint Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht also examined the matter and published its Report on the Title of Architect (July 2013) which is available at:
https://www.oireachtas.ie/parliament/media/committees/archivedcommittees/environmenttransportcultureandthegaeltacht/Report-on-the-Title-of-Architect.pdf
Both reports, which were welcomed by my Department, made a number of recommendations intended to improve and streamline the arrangements for registration. {This is a specious summary. The most significant recommendations are ignored. See concluding note below – Ed.} Implementation of these recommendations, in consultation with the Architects Alliance of Ireland and others, has seen a number of reforms being implemented which include the administration of the technical assessment process on a cyclical basis where briefing, guidance and support for candidates can be administered in a structured manner; mentoring and supporting applicants; facilitating assessment based on recent projects; facilitating applicants with reassessment/reapplication (i.e. ensuring that the technical assessment procedure is not seen as a one chance only route to registration); and reviewing and simplifying guidance materials with direct input from practice-trained persons. My Department and the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI), as registration body, are committed to continuing to work with the Architects Alliance of Ireland and others in this manner to achieve whatever further reasonable and practical improvements of registration arrangements can be made in the context of the Fennell report or otherwise.
In addition to the transitional “grandfather” provision set out above, section 14(2)(f) of the Act provides a permanent route to registration for practically trained persons who have 7 years appropriate practical experience and who have passed the prescribed register examination. In 2016 the Architects Alliance of Ireland proposed a special entry route to incorporate the proposed development of a prescribed register admission examination as currently provided for under this section. While the Act would allow me to prescribe such a register admission examination as a route to registration for eligible persons, neither I nor my Department have the remit or the competence to validate or approve the proposed register admission examination. That aspect of the matter comes within the responsibility of the RIAI who are designated as the registration body for the purposes of the 2007 Act and as the competent authority for the purposes of the Directive on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications (as amended). For this reason the Architects Alliance of Ireland were advised by my Department to discuss their proposal, in the first instance, with the RIAI as registration body and competent authority for the architectural profession in Ireland.
{The Registration Body has no lawful role in the matter, only self-interest. As with the Minister’s List, the Minister remains the relevant Competent Authority. Department correspondence affirms “The proposed amendment to the Directive states that the those seeking inclusion in the list must have, for a period of five years immediately prior to the date of entry into force of the Directive, pursued architectural activities the nature and importance of which in the opinion of the competent authorities gives that person an established right to pursue those activities. The competent authority in this case is the Minister for the Environment. He has appointed a panel to review all applications which have been received in connection with the amendment and to advise him on their merits.” –Ed.}
My Department and the RIAI, as registration body, are committed to continuing to work with the Architects Alliance of Ireland and all other stakeholders to achieve whatever further reasonable and practical improvements in registration arrangements can be made. I would encourage all practically trained persons to pursue the routes to registration which are open to them and to continue to engage constructively with my Department and the RIAI.
{The highly significant yet overlooked recommendations from the official reports are:- The Fennell Review concluded with this major observation: “Overarching regulatory structure: 11. In the context of any future review of the overall regulatory structure for construction professionals there would be merit in determining if consumer confidence would be enhanced and the independence of the regulatory structure bolstered by the introduction of an overarching supervisory regulator to monitor and guide the self-regulatory or co-regulatory functions of the various professional bodies in this area. The manner in which the accountancy profession is regulated, whereby the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority monitors and guides the regulatory functions provided by the various accountancy institutes and organisations could provide an instructive model in this regard.” The Environment Committee made this primary recommendation “1. That the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government, notwithstanding the existence of the Technical Assessment, give consideration to the inclusion of a typical, self-extinguishing ‘grandfather’ clause in the Building Control Act 2007 – as is provided in other State legislation.” The Competition Authority wrote: “We recommended that the new regulatory body for architects should be independent of existing professional representative organisations. This was to avoid any possible conflict of interest between a representative body (whose job it is to protect the interests of members) and a regulator (whose duty is to protect the public interest). Our recommendation on this matter was not accepted. Under the Building Control Act 2007, the RIAI, which is the main professional representative body for architects in Ireland, was appointed as the new registration body and Competent Authority for architects. In November 2009, a new Register of Architects was introduced. The Register is administered and regulated by the RIAI.” -Ed.}
13/04/2017 CONSUMER PROTECTION - JOINT OIREACHTAS COMMITTEE
A Review of Building Regulations, Building Controls and Consumer Protection resumed under the auspices of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.
12/04/2017 MEETING WITH LABOUR PARTY LEADER
The AAoI had a meeting in Leinster House with Deputy Brendan Howlin, Leader of the Labour Party and his advisor Cathal McCann. Deputy Howlin was Minister for the Environment during the making of ‘The Minister’s List’ for those architects who were “overlooked” (according to the Minister of the day) in Ireland’s preparations for the Architects’ Directive. ‘Minister’s List’ architects now have an automatic right to registration in the State. Through the Act, Minister’s List architects also benefit from automatic recognition under the Directive – that being a Government priority.
05/04/2017 CONSUMER PROTECTION - JOINT OIREACHTAS COMMITTEE
A Review of Building Regulations, Building Controls and Consumer Protection commenced under the auspices of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.
28/02/2017 RESTORING COMPETITION - THE AT REGISTER PQ 389
Mick Wallace TD (Wexford, Independent) PQ 389: To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the current position in relation to the establishment of a statutory register of architectural technologists, in view of the establishment of the QQI standard in architectural technology almost a year ago; and the likely timeframe for its introduction. [10203/17]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): My Department has had detailed engagement with the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) over the past number of years. In this regard, my Department outlined a number of options in keeping with the Building Control Act 2007 which could be pursued by CIAT with a view to progressing the registration of its Chartered Architectural Technologist members. My Department supported the establishment by CIAT of the voluntary Register for Architectural Technologists in Ireland in July 2014 to represent those practising within the Republic of Ireland. The voluntary register operated by CIAT assesses and monitors the competency standards for Architectural Technologist applicants. In March 2016, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) formally published the national graduate standard for Architectural Technology in Ireland. {No equivalent requirement was demanded prior to the creation of the Register for Architects –Ed.} This was the result of close collaboration between QQI, CIAT and the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI). Since publication of the QQI standard in architectural technology, my Department has met with CIAT representatives to provide guidance and an explanation of the process involved in order to place the register on a statutory footing. The prospective registration bodies have a major role to play to devising and gaining consensus within their sector on a registration process that is fit for purpose as a statutory register and in this regard I understand that meetings have taken place between the CIAT and the RIAI. Following the meeting my Department has provided follow up information to CIAT regarding the preparation of a Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) in relation to the creation of a statutory register and await feedback and input from CIAT in this regard. My Department will continue to engage and work with CIAT in relation to this matter. {This is further obstruction to competition, for there was no Regulatory Impact Assessment in the establishment of the Register for Architects –Ed.} .
16/02/2017 CORK CIRCUIT COURT: RIAI PROSECUTION ABANDONED
VILLAGE magazine, April issue, page 7: The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) seems to be increasingly reluctant to pursue its prosecutions of non-architects, who are not members of the RIAI, but who use the title ‘Architect’ professionally. It withdrew a recent case ‘on the steps of the courthouse’.
01/02/2017 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: CUSTOMS HOUSE MEETING
AAoI meeting at the Customs House with Minister English’s officials to explore ways forward.
17/11/2016 AAoI NEWS
The AAoI 2016 AGM will take place at the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise, on 03/12/2016, with signing-in commencing at 10.30am. The meeting itself will start at 11.00am. A light lunch will be provided. To defray expenses, €20 will be collected from each attendee at the door. Nominations are now invited for the new committee. Nominations will ideally be sent in advance but will also be accepted on the day. The AAoI looks forward to seeing you in Portlaoise on the 3rd.
11/11/2016 NEWS
The RIAI ltd launched a survey designed to gather the opinions of RIAI members on the potential role of the RIAI in the establishment of a Register of Architectural Technologists.
The Building Control Act 2007 established the Statutory Registers for Architects, Quantity Surveyors and Building Surveyors. Since the introduction of SI 9 there has been considerable concern amongst Architectural Technologists that they are excluded from acting as Certifiers of Compliance (Design) and Assigned Certifiers as defined by the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations. The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government is now exploring which organisation might take on the role of Registration Body for Architectural Technologists.
09/11/2016 MEETING WITH FIANNA FÁIL SPOKESPERSON
An AAoI delegation had a briefing meeting in Offaly with Deputy Barry Cowen, Fianna Fáil Environment Spokesperson.
17/10/2016 MEETING WITH FIANNA FÁIL LEADER
AAoI meeting in Cork with Deputy Micheál Martin, Leader of Fianna Fáil, to explore ways forward.
05/09/2016 MEETING WITH MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT / DEPUTY LEADER OF FINE GAEL
AAoI briefing meeting in Carrigaline with Simon Coveney TD , Minister for the Environment (the Department is now named Housing, Planning & Local Government).
19/07/2016 USE OF SUFFIX MRIAI (IRL) PQ 390
John McGuinness TD (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fáil) PQ 390: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the engagement he had with the European Union, relative to the Building Control Act 2007, and Article 46 of Directive 2005-36-EC, on the recognition of professional qualifications; if members of the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, who are recognised to practise legally in Ireland, and use the suffix MRIAI (Irl), will be recognised to practise in the EU, as part of a review of the Directive; if he is pressing this case with the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22907/16]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): Directive 2005/36/EC on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications, as amended by Directive 2013/55/EU, sets out a number of routes under which professionals may have their qualifications recognised to practice in other Member States. The profession of architect is only one of seven professions within the Directive with a system of automatic recognition for qualifications. Professionals in possession of qualifications as listed in Annex V of the Directive are eligible for automatic recognition in other Member States. Annex V comprises the qualifications that meet the stated minimum training conditions necessary for inclusion in the automatic recognition system. {Correct except for the improper inclusion in Annex V of RIAI club membership, which is not a qualification and is not accredited by QQI –Ed.}. In Ireland, the competent authority for the registration of architects is the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), who register the persons who fulfil the competencies set out in the Directive with the MRIAI qualification. As MRIAI is listed in Annex V, architects who hold the MRIAI qualification (sic) are eligible for automatic recognition in other Member States. {Annex V is a table of EU university awards that have been declared, by the respective Member State, to be fully compliant with Art.46 of the Directive. The inclusion of MRIAI and ARIAI membership certificates defeats the trust which the Directive relies upon –Ed.} . While a professional may obtain automatic recognition, further authorisation or registration requirements may need to be fulfilled prior to being able to practice in other Member States. For architects whose qualifications may not be listed in Annex V and are not eligible for automatic recognition, recognition may be sought under the general system. Under the general system, a professional can submit their qualifications for recognition to the relevant competent authority, in the Member State in which they intend to practise, who will in turn complete an assessment and reach a decision in accordance with the terms of the Directive. Architects who hold the MRIAI (IRL) qualification fall into this category. These comprise of architects who have demonstrated that they meet the requirements for registration in the State as set out in Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007, having qualified through a number of special entry routes available, or previously available, in Ireland (e.g. the Minister’s List, the Technical Assessment Procedure or the Prescribed Register Admissions Examination). These special entry routes have not been recognised by the European Commission for the purposes of automatic recognition under the Directive. {As was intended by the legislators, Minister’s List architects do indeed benefit from automatic recognition under the Directive –Ed.}. The RIAI is designated as the registration body for the purposes of Part 3 of the Building Control Act of 2007 and is the competent authority for the purposes of Directive 2005/36/EC (as amended) on the recognition of professional qualifications. Any changes to the arrangements in place for the automatic recognition of architects registered in Ireland are a matter for the RIAI, as the competent authority in Ireland for the registration of architects, and the European Commission. I have no direct role in these aspects of the matter. {Despite the authority granted to the RIAI through the Act, it should be understood that the RIAI is not an accredited educational or assessment body. Inevitably, its home-brewed Technical Assessment procedures failed to achieve Recognition of Prior Learning status. The unilateral, post-Act creation of two classes of RIAI membership explicitly contradicts the intentions of the legislators –Ed.}
14/07/2016 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Alliance had a first briefing meeting with Minister Damien English TD at Leinster House.
The discussion was lively and productive. A further meeting is expected. This important introduction to the Minister for Housing and Urban Renewal was facilitated by Deputy Kevin Moran and supported by Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice .
21/06/2016 CLERKS OF WORK SIDE-LINED IN NEW BUILDING CONTROL REGULATIONS PQ 260
Dessie Ellis TD (TD, Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) PQ 260: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he is aware that over the past number of years, a clerk of works has not been mandatory on site, and if he will reintroduce this measure in the interest of better building regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17255/16]
Reply from Minister of State Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael): In broad terms, the role of a clerk of works is to monitor the quality of work on site, check and supervise construction details, record progress and report to the project design team. The (Building Control Amendment Regulations 2014 – S.I.9/2014) which came into effect on 1 March 2014, introduced requirements for the appointment of design certifiers and assigned certifiers. The role of the assigned certifier is to draw up and execute an appropriate inspection plan, in conjunction with the builder and the project team, and to jointly certify with the builder that the building is in compliance with the Building Regulations when complete. Whereas heretofore local authorities, who frequently employed clerks of works on local authority construction projects, were exempt from building control requirements, this general exemption was removed under the (Building Control Amendment No.2 Regulations 2015 – S.I.365/2015) with effect from 1 September 2015 following a review of the 2014 Regulations after 12 months in operation. In response to this change, my Department has written to all local authorities outlining the revised funding arrangements that will apply typically in respect of social housing projects funded by the Department. The revised funding arrangements make provision for the additional costs associated with the new design certifier and assigned certifier roles now required under Building Control Regulations. These inspection and certification roles are a statutory obligation unlike the non-statutory system of inspections previously undertaken by the clerks of works. The design and assigned certifier roles must be undertaken by registered construction professionals (i.e. an architect, a building surveyor or a chartered engineer), who may be directly employed by the local authority or whose services may be procured by way of public tender. It is unlikely that persons who previously undertook the role of clerk of work will be in a position to undertake the design or assigned certifier role although some clerks of works may be qualified to do so. Staffing and resourcing issues are in the first instance a matter for the Chief Executive of each local authority. Standard funding arrangements communicated by my Department to local authorities are necessarily based around the general arrangements that typically apply to construction projects. If, in relation to specific projects, circumstances exist which require alternative approaches, these can be considered on a case by case basis by the Department in consultation with the local authority concerned. Reasonable and appropriate proposals that represent good value for money having regard to the public funds invested will always receive due consideration. {Despite specific submissions made during the consultation process, the role of the Clerk of Works and the effectiveness of mandatory Latent Defects Insurance were ignored in favour more self-regulation and self-certification. Public/consumer protection and actual redress are not provided. Instead the Closed Shop was strengthened with more livelihoods put at risk and competition suppressed –Ed.}
19/05/2016 32nd DAIL NEWS
Damien English TD (Meath West, Fine Gael) is appointed Minister of State for Housing and Urban Renewal.
06/05/2016 32nd DAIL NEWS
Simon Coveney TD (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael) is appointed Minister of the Environment, Community & Local Government in Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s new minority government.
14/04/2016 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: MINISTER KELLY' SOLUTION
At the behest of outgoing Minister Alan Kelly, a meeting was called for finalizing a special entry route by way of a second Prescribed Register Admission Examination for accreditation by the Department of Education. However, stakeholder’s written comments from the RIAI Council, promised for the following week, were not subsequently presented and the Minister’s last minute initiative was blocked. In attendance were Cónán O’Broin for the Minister, 2 official representatives of the RIAI, 3 official representatives of the AAoI and 2 senior Department officials.
11/02/2016 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: RIAI MEETING
A meeting was held at the RIAI offices, ostensibly to further the making of a special entry route. In attendance were 2 official representatives of the RIAI, 3 official representatives of the AAoI and Martin Vaughan senior official of the Department.
03/02/2016 31st DAIL NEWS
The 31st Dail is dissolved in preparation for a General Election on the 26th February.
03/02/2016 POLITICAL DEBATE
Áine Collins TD (Cork North West, Fine Gael) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 91:To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government to establish a board to examine the credentials of architects and if established practitioners would qualify under a new regulation of the special entry route, given that Architects’ Alliance of Ireland has made an updated submission. [4538/16]
Reply from Minister of State Paudie Coffey TD (Waterford, Fine Gael):
The statutory arrangements for the registration of architects are set out under Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007. The examination of the credentials of applicants seeking inclusion on the register of architects is a matter for the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland which is the designated registration body for the purposes of Part 3 of the Act. I have no role in relation to this particular aspect of the matter. I also refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 510, 511, 516 and 545 of 2 February 2016 which sets out the context and the up to date position on this matter generally.
02/02/2016 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 510: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the status of architects and the building control regulations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3971/16]
Maureen O'Sullivan TD (Dublin Central, Independent) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 511: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will restore market competition through the adoption of the Architects' Alliance of Ireland's special entry route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3997/16]
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 516: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the status of the so-called grandfather clause that was to apply to self-taught and long practising architects; if he will comprehensively and finally address this matter in the interest of those directly affected and before the conclusion of the Dáil Éireann term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4063/16]
Michael Creed TD (Cork North West, Fine Gael) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 545: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the status of progress made arising from a meeting in September 2015 with the Architects' Alliance of Ireland on the issue of registration of practice trained architects under the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4347/16]
Reply from Minister of State Paudie Coffey TD (Waterford, Fine Gael):
I propose to take Questions Nos. 510, 511, 516 and 545 together.
The statutory arrangements for the registration of architects are set out under Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007. Section 22 of the Act makes specific provision for the registration, based on technical assessment, of persons who had been independently performing duties commensurate with those of an architect for a period of 10 or more years in the State prior to the commencement of the Act. This is in effect what is often colloquially referred to as a “grandfather” provision.
In general, a construction professional who is not included on any of the three statutory registers for Architects, Building Surveyors or Chartered Engineers is not entitled to use the relevant professional titles of Architect, Building Surveyor or Chartered Engineer and may not sign statutory certificates of compliance for building control purposes.
In 2013, in response in particular to the lower than anticipated rate of applications for inclusion on the Register of Architects through the technical assessment route, an independent review of the arrangements in place for registration was undertaken by Mr Garret Fennell, Solicitor. Mr Fennell’s report on the matter is available on my Department’s website and can be accessed by clicking on the following weblink:
http://www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/migrated-files/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/BuildingStandards/FileDownLoad%2C34097%2Cen.pdf
The Joint Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht also examined the matter and published its Report on the Title of Architect (July 2013) which is available at:
https://www.oireachtas.ie/parliament/media/committees/archivedcommittees/environmenttransportcultureandthegaeltacht/Report-on-the-Title-of-Architect.pdf
Both reports, which were welcomed by my Department, made a number of recommendations intended to improve and streamline the arrangements for registration. Implementation of these recommendations, in consultation with the Architects Alliance of Ireland (AAI) and others, has seen a number of reforms being implemented which include the administration of the technical assessment process on a cyclical basis where briefing, guidance and support for candidates can be administered in a structured manner; mentoring and supporting applicants; facilitating assessment based on recent projects; facilitating applicants with reassessment/reapplication (i.e. ensuring that the technical assessment procedure is not seen as a one chance only route to registration); and reviewing and simplifying guidance materials with direct input from practice-trained persons.
The recent review of the Building Control Regulations afforded the opportunity for further consideration of the matter in the context of broadening the pool of persons who may certify building works for building control purposes. In this regard, Minister Kelly and I have both reaffirmed our commitment to continuing to work with stakeholders to identify, as an alternative to the existing technical assessment procedure, a special entry route that takes due account of the practice-trained experience and subsequent career circumstances of such candidates for registration.
In recent weeks, the AAoI has updated its own proposals for a special entry route to incorporate the proposed development of a prescribed register admission examination as currently provided for under section 14(2)(f) of the Act. While the Act would allow me to prescribe such a register admission examination as a route to registration for eligible persons, neither I nor my Department have the remit or the competence to validate or approve the proposed register admission examination. That aspect of the matter comes within the responsibility of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) who are designated as the registration body for the purposes of the Act of 2007 and as the competent authority for the purposes of Directive 2005/ 36 /E C (as amended) on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications. For this reason I would advise the AAoI in the first instance to discuss their latest proposal with the RIAI as registration body/competent authority for the architectural profession in Ireland.
As previously stated, my Department and the RIAI, as registration body, are committed to continuing to work with the AAoI and all other stakeholders to achieve whatever further reasonable and practical improvements in registration arrangements can be made.
{Whilst the RIAI is the registration body in the State, the registrar’s duties commence only when an application is received. The RIAI has no role in regard to a Prescribed Register Admissions Examination. Despite the absence of QQI accreditation, the RIAI actually was made the competent authority as regards to the Directive, but that role is solely about migrant architects. There is no basis in law for the assertion that the RIAI is the competent authority for architects within the State. As shown by the Minister’s List process, it is the Minister who is the relevant Competent Authority –Ed.}
18/01/2016 REGISTRATION NEWS
Technical Assessment in Parts 3, 4 & 5 of the Building Control Act 2007 are contrary to European Law
Art. 3a of the Amended Professional Qualifications Directive (#2013/55/EU, operational in the State from today) reads “requirements must be neither directly nor indirectly discriminatory on the basis of nationality or residence”. This assertion of a fundamental principle of European Law concurs with a successful complaint to the European Ombudsman lodged by a practicing architect member of the AAoI resident and working in the wider Dublin area. From today it is unlawful for RIAI Ltd. to invite or accept new Technical Assessment candidates. This misleadingly styled “grandfather provision” is finally brought to an end.
13/01/2016 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE
Fergus O'Dowd TD (Louth, Fine Gael) PQ 845: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to issues (details supplied) in relation to the registration of architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46598/15]
21/11/2015 AAoI NEWS
The 2015 AGM of the Architects' Alliance of Ireland took place today at the Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. It was a well attended event with good participation from the delegates. The progress of the Alliance campaign was reviewed and specific decisions taken on the next steps. The present committee members were re-elected for 2016, with the exception of our vice-chair who resigned because of substantial work commitments.
5/11/2015 AAoI NEWS
The AGM of the Architects Alliance of Ireland will take place on Saturday 21st November 2015, at the Killeshin Hotel, Dublin Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Members should arrive at 10.15am, registration will start 10.30am, with the meeting starting at 11.00am sharp.
30/09/2015 AAoI AGM
The 2015 AAoI Committee will call the Annual General Meeting (probably for late November) where the latest developments will be considered and discussed.
29/09/2015 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: A SECOND MINISTER'S LIST
Minister Alan Kelly, accompanied by Counsellor Duncan Smith, held a meeting at Leinster House with the AAoI to explain the steps he had identified for making a second Minister’s List process.
18/09/2015 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE: CUSTOMS HOUSE MEETING
Following his own discussions with the RIAI, Martin Vaughan, senior official of the Department, called a meeting with the AAoI where he dismissed the AAoI’ special entry route submission. This Customs House meeting was formally minuted by the Department – unlike all previous meetings with officials where minute taking was not allowed.
31/07/2015 SPECIAL ENTRY ROUTE
The report on the review of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014, S.I.9, was published by the Minister for the Environment today. The report can be accessed HERE.
The AAoI noted that: "The review also focused attention on broadening the pool of persons who may certify building works for building control purposes. In this regard the Ministers have reaffirmed their commitment to providing an alternative to the technical assessment procedure for registration open to certain practice-trained architects under the Building Control Act 2007."
It was also noted that: "In keeping with the recommendations of the Joint Oireachtas Committee Report on the Title of Architect (2013) and the Fennell Report (2013) the Department will continue to work with stakeholders to identify a special entry route having due regard to the practice-trained experience and subsequent career circumstances of such candidates for registration. "
15/05/2015 NEWS
The AAOI made a submission to the S.I. No. 9 of 2014 Review which is available HERE. Submissions from other groups and individuals are being gathered and will be made available on our website DATA page.
08/04/2015 NEWS
The Architects' Alliance of Ireland has been invited to the S.I.9 consultative forum for stakeholders which is to be hosted by Minister Coffey on the 15th April 2014. Our delegates will be Robert Foley, Hon. Sec., and Brian Montaut, Spokesperson.
02/04/2015 REGISTRATION NEWS
Review of Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014, S.I. 9 of 2014 to examine cost burden for one-off houses.
Paudie Coffey Minister of State, TD, together with Minister for the Environment Alan Kelly, TD , today (2nd April 2015) announced a review of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 9 of 2014), which will include an examination of the cost burden involved for one-off houses, including self-build, and extensions to existing dwellings.
A suite of documents is being published today to inform the Review, including a sample inspection plan drawn up by the Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government to inform the market in relation to offering realistic and appropriately priced professional services, and the Department’s own calculation of the costs involved. Also included for consultation is an information note setting out options for addressing the cost burden of the regulations for single dwellings and extensions to existing dwellings.
The consultation documents may be accessed at the links set out below:
-Information Document 1 (pdf, 327kb)
-Information Document 2 (pdf, 382kb)
-Information Document 3 (pdf, 244kb)
-Sample Preliminary Inspection Plan (pdf, 1,210kb)
-Cost Calculations (pdf, 206kb)
-SI No 9 of 2014 - Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (pdf, 273kb)
-Template for Comments / Observations (xls, 30kb)
The scope and objectives of the review are as follows:
(a) To review the operation of S.I. No. 9 of 2014 in consultation with industry and local authority stakeholders and members of the public,
(b) To consider in particular the impact of S.I. No. 9 of 2014 on single dwellings and extensions to existing dwellings having regard to specific concerns which have been raised in relation to the cost burden of the regulations and the level of certification required for this sector,
(c) To consider more generally the impact of S.I. No. 9 of 2014 on owners, occupiers and users of buildings have regard to the statutory purposes for which building regulations may be made (i.e. public safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, efficient use of resources and good building practice),
(d) To make recommendations that will strengthen and improve the arrangements in place for the control of building activity in keeping with the principles of good and fair administration,
(e) To report with recommendations to the Minister of State as soon as possible, but in any event no later than 30 June 2015.
Written submissions will be welcomed from members of the public and industry in general, and should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. not later than Friday 15th May 2015. Please note that only submissions made on the attached template will be accepted. Please note that all submissions and comments submitted to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government under this public consultation are subject to release under the Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003.
01/04/2015 REGISTRATION NEWS
Minister for the Environment Alan Kelly has today announced a review of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 9 of 2014). Minister Kelly said: “Our objective is to empower consumers to get a fair price for the actual inspection work they require. A number of cases have been brought to my attention, whereby consumers have been quoted outlandish charges for professional services in relation to residential construction projects. It is worthwhile for homeowners to have the home they invest in checked and inspected but, they should not have to pay an inflated rate for excessive inspection services”.
The Department of the Environment, Community & Local Government is publishing a suite of documents to inform the Review, including a sample inspection plan drawn up by the Department to inform the market in relation to offering realistic and appropriately priced professional services, and the Department’s own calculation of the costs involved. Also included for consultation is an information note setting out options for addressing the cost burden of the regulations for single dwellings and extensions to existing dwellings.
The Ministers are open to the view that broadening the pool of persons who can design, inspect and certify buildings could also help the one-off housing sector of the market. This is one of the options being put forward for consultation as part of the review. The Department continues to work with Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland, as the statutory registration body for architects and with representatives groups such as the Architects Alliance of Ireland to secure greater representation of practically trained practitioners on the register of architects.
Paudie Coffey Minister of State, TD said “The Regulations were introduced last year to ensure competence and professionalism in construction and to bring accountability to bear within the industry following the scourge of defective building works that had become all too common. Owners, builders, construction professionals and local authorities have gained a lot of practical experience of the new regulatory requirements on some 6,000 projects, big and small, that commenced since 1 March 2014. I am confident that a lot of learning will come through in the review that will allow me to refine and streamline the regulatory process so as to ensure that the building process can work effectively to serve the needs of industry and of consumers.”
Plans are also advancing for the statutory registration of architectural technologists and both Ministers welcome the decision by Quality Qualifications Ireland to set up a working group to identify a common standard for architectural technology in line with the National Qualifications Framework. Noting that this is a critical step in the development of a statutory register, Minister Kelly added: “We will do everything in our power, consistent with domestic legal arrangements and at EU level, to fast-track the new register and to ensure that the routes to registration more generally are fair, open and broadly-based.”
Another issue to be examined in the review is the option of establishing a “Minister’s List” for practically trained architects, whereby they could be facilitated to continue in their work, subject to defined criteria.
The review of the S.I. No. 9 of 2014 formally begins today followed by a consultative forum to be hosted by Minister Coffey on 15 April 2015. The forum will consider the key features of the building control reforms and invite participating stakeholder representatives to contribute their views. Stakeholders will then have a month to follow up with a full written submission reporting on their experiences to date and recommending any further changes they think would be helpful. Written submissions will also be welcomed from members of the public and industry in general, and should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
28/02/2015 THE VILLAGE MAGAZINE
The AAoi, has long expressed its concerns about a conflict of interest with the appointment of the RIAI as the registration body for architects in the Republic of Ireland. The concerns of AAoI are confirmed once again, in a "Village" magazine article dated "February 28, 2015" which explains that "Eoin O’Cofaigh, a disenfranchised and irritable ex-President (1998-9) of the RIAI, had complained about the payment without any tender process of €500,000 to Bluebloc digital, a company 50% owned by Odran Graby, son of veteran RIAI Chief Executive John Graby." The article can be accessed by clicking HERE. The "Village" magazine has published other articles on this subject which can be accessed from the magazine's website or by consulting the Village's archives.
For over 5 years the AAoI has expressed its concerns to the government. Concerns which are shared by many outside our association, as the article from the Village magazine indicates. Members of AAoI are now waiting for the government to finally take action and solve the injustice which we have suffered by the enactment of a legislation that gave the RIAI a monopoly and the right to keep the competition that we represent out of the market. The AAoI will have no respite until this maladministration is rectified and our rights restored.
24/02/2015 POLITICAL DEBATE
Pat Breen TD (Clare, Fine Gael) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 588 To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the Fennell recommendations on the registration of architects; if he will provide the registration arrangements which have been put in place since the publication of the report; if his Department plans to introduce any further registration arrangements to address the concerns of architectural technologists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8131/15]
Paudie Coffey Minister of State, TD (Waterford, Fine Gael) gave this reply:
- In 2013 Mr Garrett Fennell, Solicitor, who is chairperson of the Admissions Board established by the Royal Institution of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) to oversee the registration of architects under the Building Control Act 2007, was tasked with reviewing the arrangements in place for registration. Mr Fennell’s report, which was welcomed by my Department, made a number of recommendations intended to improve and streamline the arrangements for registration, in particular those which apply to practically trained persons who had been operating as architects for 10 years prior to the commencement of the Act of 2007. Implementation of these recommendations, in consultation with the Architects Alliance of Ireland and others, has seen a number of reforms which now make it easier for such practically trained persons to become registered. Such reforms include administering the technical assessment process on a cyclical basis where briefing, guidance and support for candidates can be administered in a structured manner, mentoring and supporting applicants, facilitating assessment based on recent projects, facilitating applicants with reassessment/reapplication (i.e. ensuring it is not seen as a one chance only route to registration) and reviewing and simplifying guidance materials with direct input from practically trained persons. I have asked my Department and the RIAI as registration body to continue to work with the Architects Alliance of Ireland and others in this manner to achieve whatever further reasonable and practical improvements of the technical assessment process can be made in the context of the Fennell report or otherwise.
- In relation to the proposals for the statutory registration of Architectural Technologists, I refer to the reply given to Question No. 519 of 18 November 2014 which remains the position. I welcome the decision by Quality Qualifications Ireland to facilitate the development of a common standard for architectural technology in line with the National Qualifications Framework which is an important step towards the development of a statutory register. I am committed to advancing plans for the statutory registration of architectural technologists as quickly as possible. I intend carrying out a public consultation on the matter over the coming months with a view to early publication of legislative proposals thereafter.
16/02/2015 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
The deferred AGM of the AAoI will take place in Portlaoise on Saturday 21st of February (11.00am sign-in, 11.30am start). It is a meeting for registered members and supporters only. 20 Euro will be charged for attendance. Lunch and refreshment will be provided. We hope to see you there.
20/11/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Martin Heydon TD (Kildare South, Fine Gael) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 143. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the progress that is being made in the area of ensuring agreement for a grandfather clause for architects who have worked in the building regulation area for years to ensure their years of experience are not lost to the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44701/14]
11/11/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Jim Daly TD (Cork South West, Fine Gael) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 523. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding building control regulations. [43183/14]
06/11/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Éamon Ó Cuív TD (Galway West, Fianna Fail) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 232: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will facilitate the registration of persons with long experience as architects under a grandfather provision even if their qualifications do not fulfil the full requirements for newly qualified architects, in view of their proven track record and experience; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42638/14]
Click HERE to read the Minister's answer.
06/11/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Alan Kelly TD, PQ 222: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his proposals to facilitate the registration of grandfather architects in the new buildings regulations and architects registrations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42489/14]
Click HERE to read the Minister's answer.
22/09/2014 FRANK IRWIN, ARCHITECT, R.I.P.
Frank Irwin, architect and founding member of the Architects' Alliance of Ireland died this day. Requiem Mass on Sunday at 11.30am 28th September, burial afterwards in Rockvale Cemetery, Newport, Co. Tipperary.
02/09/2014 REGISTRATION NEWS
Minister Alan Kelly and his officials had a 45 minute meeting with the Alliance at the Custom House. The Grandfather Clause, the graduate issue, EC Memo 13-839-EN, the 2013 EJOC Report, the absence of a BCA2007 Regulatory Impact Assessment and self-certification were among the topics. The Minister closed the meeting by requesting specific follow-up documents to be submitted to him within working five days. Michael Cummins, Margaret Kirwan and Brian Montaut represented the Alliance.
01/08/2014 NEWS
The CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) announced the launch of a Register for Architectural Technologists in Ireland. The Register is currently voluntary, the formation of which is supported by the Department for Environment, Communities and Local Government (DECLG). The objective of the voluntary Architectural Technologists’ Register is for it to attain Statutory status and for its Registrants to be accepted as competent to provide Design and Assigned Certifier services under the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014. For this to be achieved primary legislation will be required and the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 will require amendment.
30/05/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Mick Wallace TD engaged in a Dáil 'Topical Issue' debate with Minister Hogan TD concerning the Building Control Regulations (S.I.9/2014) and Architectural Technologists. You can see a video of the debate by clicking here and read the text of the debate by clicking here .
13/05/2014 NEWS
A Dail debate has been announced for 27th May 2014 concerning the Building Regulations (specifically S.I.9/2014) and our fellow practitioners the Architectural Technologists.
30/04/2014 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
The Architects' Alliance of Ireland is announcing the retirement of Margaret Kirwan as Chair. Margaret's term of office has ended and she will continue as an Officer of the committee. Aidan Coleman is the new Chair. AAoI and all members of the committee are hugely indebted to Margaret for her work as the first Chair of the Alliance. The committee wishes Aidan Coleman success in his new position.
03/03/2014 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
The Architects' Alliance of Ireland launched a new website to inform the public and professionals on the impact of the new Building Control Regulations. The Website can be accessed at the following address: www.SI9.ie. The new Regulations will affect small building works, self-builders, building contractors, designers and certifiers.
30/01/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Senator Mark Daly (Kerry South, Fianna Fáil Seanad Spokesperson on Communications, Energy & Natural Resources) I thank the Minister for coming to the House. This issue relates to the new 2013 regulations introduced under the Building Control Act, and they relate to certification of building works. There seems to be much concern among architects, engineers and surveyors regarding the exclusion of large numbers of competent engineers and architects who currently do a job in applying for planning permission and supervising construction works. It now seems that those who have been deemed competent for decades and who have been in the industry for years will not be able to certify works under these regulations. Will the Minister outline what is being done to allay their fears? People's lives and livelihoods - their ability to earn a living - are being put at risk.
21/01/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
James Bannon TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 492: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to amend the registration arrangements currently provided for in the Building Control Act 1997 in respect of the grandfather clause, relating to practically trained persons providing architectural services here; if he faciliate Architects Alliance of Ireland the opportunity to address these issues; the way this will be done; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2937/14]
15/01/2014 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 522: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding ARAE registration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1608/14]
12/12/2013 EUROPEAN NEWS
AAoI was informed of a complaint against S.I. No. 80 of 2013 - Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2013, recently sent to the European Commission.
12/12/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 147: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53566/13]
05/12/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 31: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government in view of the latest evacuation of residents due to non-compliance with fire safety building regulations in Navan and following similar exposure of non-compliance with fire safety regulations in the Fingal, Dublin city, south Dublin and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown council areas, if he will list the councils which have taken enforcement action against developers or contractors in relation to non-compliance with fire safety regulations since he took office in March 2011; and if he will provide an update on any progress or discussion on the new building regulations with architects, engineers and other professional bodies. [51907/13]
03/12/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Terence Flanagan TD (Dublin North East, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 239: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the number of officials in his Department that are receiving the cost of club membership fees, including sports clubs and professional bodies, as part of their contract of employment; the total cost per year to his Department of paying these fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51365/13]
30/10/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
An exploratory meeting was held between AAoI, Minister Hogan's officials and the RIAI at the Custom House.
The discussion centred on Mr Fennell's report (particularly those recommendations which can be implemented without legislative change) and on the impact of mandatory self-certification in March 2014. Further meetings are expected.
02/10/2013 EUROPEAN NEWS
The EU published a press statement headed "Evaluating national regulations on access to professions" which begins:
"Member States may reserve the right to access certain professional activities to the holders of specific qualifications (e.g. design of new buildings reserved to architects) for reasons of general interest. Such restrictions make the mobility of professionals within the single market more difficult. In addition, these measures may limit employment and competitiveness in the economic sectors concerned. The Commission is therefore inviting Member States to review their restrictions on the access to professions and to assess their proportionality."
Click HERE to access the article.
27/09/2013 ARCHITECTS' ALLIANCE NEWS
Architects' Alliance of Ireland announces an open meeting scheduled on Saturday 5th of October. The meeting will take place at Killeshin Hotel, Dublin Rd, Portlaoise.
This meeting is open to all disenfranchised architects and to our supporters. We will be considering in particular, THE FENNELL REPORT which was published this week. Some of its recommendations are ready for implementation, others require legislation - which may or may not arise. We hope you can make it to the meeting.
Click HERE to register your attendance.
24/09/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
In April this year the Minister announced that in response to concerns about the registration of Architects, in particular the limited number of applications to date from practically-trained architects, he had asked Mr Garret Fennell, Solicitor, who is currently serving as Chair 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. The Minister particularly asked for the report to give recommendations or views on how the registration of practically trained architects can be further encouraged.
The Report was published today with this Press Notice:-
Mr. Phil Hogan, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government today (24 September 2013) welcomed the publication of the Report of Independent Review of the registration arrangements for Architects under the Building Control Act 2007. The report follows a review undertaken by Mr. Garrett Fennell, Solicitor, (who currently chairs the Admissions Board established for the registration of Architect’s under the Act of 2007), at the Minister’s request in response to concerns about the registration of Architects, in particular the limited number of applications to date from practically-trained architects.
“I am pleased to have received this report and to publish it in full.” commented Minister Hogan. “It identifies a number of practical changes which will be made immediately to improve the effectiveness of the registration process and a further set of legislative changes which will be considered more fully in the context of the Building Control Acts.”
Minister Hogan welcomed the fact that the Report recognises that “consumer protection must be the primary focus of any regulatory system and should remain the key policy imperative against which the regulatory system for the registration of architects is assessed.” In agreement with this view the Minister said: “There is little point in having a register of architects unless members of the public can have confidence that those on the register meet the standard of competence required. It is important that any such system is rigorous, fair, proportionate and transparent and on this basis I am happy to accept the twenty or so recommendations included in this report which will, I believe, result in a fairer and more effective register of Architects.”
Mr. Hogan thanked Mr. Fennell for a “thorough, comprehensive and balanced” report. An implementation plan has also been drawn up by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government to ensure that the recommendations are put into action.
The Minister said that the measures identified in the Report, when implemented should facilitate an increased level of applications by practically trained architects for registration. The measures identified in this review will assist all those who have the required competence to get the opportunity to demonstrate their competence in a fair and transparent manner with appropriate and reasonable assistance
The Minister welcomed in particular a number of recommendations which improve the registration process for persons eligible for registration through the technical assessment or the prescribed register admissions examination procedures. “I believe these recommendations will be helpful to, and improve the registration process for practically trained architects. I have also asked my officials to continue to work with these bodies whose members have a continuing and valuable contribution to make to the construction industry.”
The Minister noted that the RIAI, as registration body, have broadly accepted the report and its recommendations and he urged them “to take full heed of the analysis and recommendations in the report and to fully grasp the opportunity now afforded to work closely with, and earn the confidence and trust of, all prospective candidates for registration, in particular those who qualify by virtue of practical experience.”
Finally, the Minister noted that the Building Control Amendment Regulations 2013, which he signed into law earlier this year, will place a renewed focus on competence, professionalism and quality on construction sites through the activation from 1 March 2014 of requirements for lodgement of drawings, inspection during construction and mandatory certificates of compliance. Any construction professional hoping to benefit from the opportunities these changes will present must be a registered professional and he hoped that many who “for whatever reason have not sought registration to date will now do so.”
Click HERE to access the Report
13/09/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
"Last year, the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) introduced a fee for the registration of office names, in addition to the existing registration fee for individual architects. Some architects object to paying it. “There’s no legal basis for it, we can’t afford it, and it’s morally wrong,” says (registered) architect Andrew Clancy of Clancy Moore Architects. Since then, it has been an ongoing issue that has now come to a head as a result of A10’s Eurovision edition on Ireland." Click Here to access the article.
18/09/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Brendan Griffin TD (Kerry South, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 965: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will introduce a Statutory Instrument similar to SI 341 of 2012 to have a course in educational institutes (details supplied) recognised as a prescribed course and bodies under the Building Control Act for the Architects Register Admission Examination administered by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38594/13]
PQ 962: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if the position of the Architects Alliance will be implemented in the context of the architects register review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38576/13]
18/07/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS (U.K.)
BDONLINE.CO.UK - Arb considers radical overhaul of architecture qualifications - By Elizabeth Hopkirk
"A radical overhaul of architecture qualifications is being considered by the ARB board. The changes could potentially allow those with a degree in a subject other than architecture to do a part II, and foreign-qualified architects to join the ARB register without achieving the three-part qualification of a UK education. {This is a misunderstanding. Migrant, Directive-compliant architects, i.e. without the three-part qualification, already benefit from automatic ARB registration - Brian Montaut}
The “root and branch” review would look at whether registration should continue to be based on qualifications and if alternative routes would broaden access to the professional register. A two- to three-year review could begin next year with a consultation exercise involving architects, professional bodies, the government and the public. It will need to be approved by the ARB board in September when it considers the 2014 business plan. A preliminary meeting this week suggested the idea will be contested, with some members strongly in favour and others questioning whether ARB could afford such a review without an increase in the retention fee.
“Any review would be comprehensive,” ARB registrar Alison Carr told BD. “There are an awful lot of ideas at the moment being generated by the education sector but that’s just one element. The review would be very wide and would start with questions such as: ‘Should there be wider routes?’ It’s not just about the profession but also about what the public want.” The move follows a detailed report by the UK Architectural Education Review Group which found support for radical change. Its recommendations, which include admitting people to the Arb register on the basis of equivalent competence rather than equivalent qualifications, was approved by the Heads of Schools (Schosa) in April.
Dickon Robinson, chairman of Building Futures at the RIBA and an independent member of the review group, described the ARB’s move as timely. “The shape of architectural education has been relatively unchanged for decades and the world has moved on,” he said. “The idea that you can’t progress to the register without a part I is completely outdated. It should be much easier to get into part II from other first degrees. “If you have a first degree in engineering and then do part II and III you should be able to call yourself an architect. The profession would be enriched by having a broader base of people who started their academic career in another discipline.” The expense of architectural education means shorter routes must be introduced, he said. “Who cares how many years you have studied? That’s a very crude idea. It should be about demonstrating learning.”
Chris Platt, head of school at the Mac, welcomed a review and said the relationship between validation, prescription and higher education needed to be simplified. “It’s a landscape fraught with inconsistencies. It’s right to be debating whether the system is still fit for purpose,” he said. Roger Hawkins of Hawkins Brown warned the UK not to open its floodgates to foreign-qualified architects without insisting on reciprocal relaxation. But he agreed that a review of the existing “Victorian” rules was necessary: “You have senior academic architects who are not registered because they haven’t got the right tick-box experience.”
17/07/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
A "Grandfather" clause should be considered in legislation defining the title of "architect" - Environment Committee -
Today saw the publication of the "Report of the Committee on the Title of Architect" prepared by the Joint Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltaght following 12 months of cross-party deliberation.
In the 54 pages report there are over 15 formal recommendations in relation to the existing legislation (the Building Control Act 2007) which gave protection to the 'title' of architect. (click Here for the press release)
Those recommendations include:
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That the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government, notwithstanding the existence of the Technical Assessment, give consideration to the inclusion of a typical, self-extinguishing ‘grandfather’ clause in the Building Control Act 2007 – as is provided in other State legislation.
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That the formal qualifications required under Irish domestic legislation for registration as an architect should not exceed the formal qualifications required for mutual recognition under the relevant European Directive.
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That the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government review and give fresh consideration to the recommendation by the Competition Authority for the establishment of an Independent Register for architects.
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That the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government extend the transition period of the proposed Building Regulations to two years
Michael McCarthy TD, Cathaoirleach of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht, said: “When a State starts to protect the use of the term ‘Architect’ and confines it to those on the architects’ register, issues can arise relating to the position of existing self-trained practitioners, colloquially termed ‘grandfathers’. These issues have been successfully addressed by other Member States in so-called ‘grandfather’ clauses in legislation."
You can access the full report by clicking Here
10/07/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Finian McGrath TD (Dublin North Central, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 197: To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider reducing the cost involved for practically trained persons who wish to be included on the register of architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33715/13]
27/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 193. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the title of architect in Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31393/13]
25/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Nicky McFadden TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 413. To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if a grandfather clause will be inserted into new legislation to enable architects who have many years of experience to be permitted to refrain from sitting exams in order to be registered with the Royal Institute of the Architects Ireland; if an alternative method of registering experienced architects could be devised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30152/13]
19/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Brendan Griffin TD (Kerry South, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 144. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the registration of architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29469/13]
18/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Arthur Spring TD (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 345. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Questions No. 51 of 3 May 2012 and 437 of 16 October 2012, if he will provide an update on the appointment of the chairperson and the nomination of the majority of non-architect members to the Professional Conduct Committee in line with Section 23 of the Building Control Act 2007; the proposed role the committee will play in settling disputes between architects and their clients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29231/13]
11/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Healy-Rae TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 640. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the number of independent architectural firms that may be endangered following the date for the banning of many independent firms with decades of experience in architecture from certifying their own building works without a fair independent registration system first being in place. [27901/13]
11/06/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Tom Fleming TD (Kerry South, Independent) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 613. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will he examine the attached submission (details supplied) regarding the effect on independent architects that the new registration regime coming into practice will have following the date for the banning of many independent firms with decades of experience in architecture from certifying their own building works without a fair independent registration system first being in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27610/13]
07/06/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Alliance had a useful 90 minute meeting with Mr Garrett Fennell at his offices. 120 written submissions had been received for his review and 11 stakeholders then invited to meet him. The Alliance was the last of the professional groups to be seen. Mr Fennell expects to report to the Minister early next month.
04/06/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
Marcella Corcoran Kennedy TD (Laois/Offaly, Fine Gael) issued a Press Release today in support of the Alliance campaign - (Click Here to access the PDF file).
28/05/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 468. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will address concerns raised regarding the grandfather clause in the Building Regulations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25349/13]
28/05/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Jack Wall TD (Kildare South, Labour) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 466. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a submission (details supplied) regarding a grandfather change in the building regulation; if the content can be addressed or is it feasible that the correspondence has means available to them to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25313/13]
23/05/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 131. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to allow an amendment for the Building Control Act 2007 to include an amendment for self trained, trained or unlicensed architects to benefit from a genuine grandfather clause. [24828/13]
21/05/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Michael Creed TD (Cork North West, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 504. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will outline the transitional arrangements that he envisages on the introduction of the Building Control Act on 1 March 2014; the way these might apply to those who are currently engaged in exams under the RIAI but who may not have those completed by the 1 March 2014 deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24277/13]
10/05/2013 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Competition Authority lodged its "Submission to the Independent Review of the Arrangements for the Registration of Architects under the Building Control Act 2007" The submission was sent to Garrett Fennell Solicitor on the 10th of May 2013. (Click Here to access the PDF file). See the website Data Page to access other relevant documentation.
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 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 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.
16/04/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Nicky McFadden TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 776. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if the Architects Registration Body published its 2010, 2011 and 2012 annual reports as stipulated in section 73 of the Building Control Act 2007; if published, if these reports may be viewed by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16410/13]
26/03/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 377. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that registered architects are trained to design in compliance with the building regulations and that they have no academic or practical training to certify compliance of construction works with building regulations; consequently if he will justify the short-listing of architects to act as assigned certifiers as per the Building Control (amendment) Regulations 2012, while other professionals with more training and experience in this field were not short-listed. [14805/13]
13/03/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Clare Daly TD (Dublin North, Socialist Party) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 142. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider the implementation of an independent certifier as an amendment to the Building Control Regulations as suggested by the Architects Alliance as a key means of preventing abuses in the building control system. [13292/13]
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]
28/02/2013 POLITICAL DEBATE
Nicky McFadden TD (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) to Minister Phil Hogan TD, PQ 175. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will defer signing new regulations for a mandatory building certificate system under the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations Act 2013 until the forthcoming report from the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Culture and Gaeltacht is studied; if he has considered the Architects Alliance paper on Self-Certification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10850/13]
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, was elected Chairman of the Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform.
09/10/2012 NEWS
Michael McCarthy TD 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]
03/05/2012 NEWS
Eoin O Cofaigh Architect and past RIAI President made a castigating submission to the DECLG regarding the Draft Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2012. You can access the document HERE.
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]
11/01/2012 POLITICAL DEBATE
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
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
Enda Kenny TD (Mayo, Fine Gael) is chosen as Taoiseach and leads the new FG/Labour coalition government.
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.
01/02/2011 NEWS
The 30th Dail is dissolved in preparation for a General Election on the 25th February.
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.
29/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
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.
18/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
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.
16/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
"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.
11/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
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.
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
10/11/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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."
05/11/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
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.
27/10/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
21/10/2010 REGISTRATION NEWS
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.
09/10/2010 MEMBERS'MEETING
A general meeting of the Alliance took place in Portlaoise to discuss lobbying and other business. Alliance meetings with the Royal Institute are underway.
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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]
29/09/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
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
Noel Coonan TD (Tipperary North, Fine Gael) to Minister John Gormley TD, PQ 16: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the inclusion of a grandfather clause for practically trained architects in the Building Control Act 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30533/10]
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.
28/01/2010 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ruairi Quinn TD (Dublin South East, Labour) to Minister John Gormley TD, PQ 149. To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Building Control Act 2007 gives an organisation (details supplied) the right to set dates for when technical assessments will be carried out; the reason applicants are charged a fee of €6,500 when the assessors will only be paid approximately a tenth of that fee; his views on whether it is fair that applicants that choose to appeal the decision of the technical assessment are charged €4,500 for the appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4427/10]
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]
16/11/2009 REGISTRATION NEWS
The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley T.D. today jointly launched the new Register for Architects, established under the Building Control Act 2007.
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]
01/03/2007 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ruairi Quinn TD (Dublin South East, Labour) - Building Control Bill 2005: Report Stage - I move amendment No. 8: In page 6, between lines 14 and 15, to insert the following: "grandfather clause" means the provisions of this Act (principally section 20) which enables a person to be registered as an architect based on training acquired by practical means.
In the interest of brevity I shall not repeat the arguments I have made elsewhere but this amendment is tabled at the request of a group of people who feel exposed and vulnerable because they may not have the necessary formal academic training certificates or qualifications but have a lifetime of experience which, in some cases, may be more valuable than theoretical academic work. They fear that if they are to be assessed further in the process of the administration of this legislation when it becomes law, that training would be deemed by some assessors to be training that took place in a classroom or under the umbrella of a course or institute.
The grandfather clause here explicitly proposes to mean "an architect based on training acquired by practical means". This group exists, is earning its living and will not be replicated so this amendment does not leave a door open for a new generation of people to come in by the same means because registration will cover those people.I ask the Minister of State to reconsider this seriously. It is a definition clause that applies later. I have been through the Bill with my legal advisers and believe this clause will provide considerable comfort for people who do not know whether they will be able to come through the process of registration. They have fears for their livelihood that nobody else shares.
To refuse this would verge on being unconstitutional, because a group might find its lifetime's experience and livelihood affected, through no fault of its own but because of a technical adjudication by somebody more academically orientated. It is deliberately phrased as a grandfather clause because it will tidy itself up, so to speak. That may not be an elegant phrase but the Minister of State knows what I am trying to say. I urge the Minister of State to consider this.
14/02/2006 POLITICAL DEBATE
Ruairi Quinn TD (Dublin South East, Labour) - Building Control Bill 2005: Second Stage - I welcome the different qualifications concerning the register. There is standard recognition of the various qualifying colleges. There is also the grandfather clause, as it has been called, and the list of people who were accepted by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government by one of the Minister's predecessors in respect of those deemed to be eligible to qualify, all of whom I presume, upon the enactment of this legislation, will automatically be deemed to qualify and can proceed. In speaking to John Graby, the director of the RIAI, this morning, I understand it in turn is ready to proceed immediately once the Bill is enacted.
I want to put two issues to the Minister for consideration which we might tease out on Committee Stage. I know the convention of our legislative system is to be prescriptive in defining the various institutions that produce qualified architects but we might need to examine some kind of enabling provision as a catch-all to give some flexibility in recognising standards rather than being as rigid as we are currently. Deputy O'Dowd's point was well made. There are many ways of getting to the top of a particular professional or academic mountain. It does not always have to be immersion in a three year and then a five year course. We should be as flexible as we can because we need that flexibility.
