Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I must oppose the proposal to delete section 63. This section provides that a person who is sanctioned under the Bill cannot be liable to prosecution for the same behaviour. It also provides that an acknowledgement of infringement during the course of an investigation is not admissible in criminal proceedings except in certain instances. Section 63 does not prohibit the building control authorities from taking a prosecution against a builder who may have sanctions imposed on him or her under this legislation. I want to be very clear about the purpose of the Bill. It is essentially a register of competence. Failures to comply with building regulations or fire safety regulations will continue to be dealt with by the building control authorities.