Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

These are good amendments and I support them. I raised a key issue on Second and Committee Stages that fire safety officers have made the point that a significant number of local authorities have not inspected many of the buildings in Ireland for fire safety or method of construction. There is a serious concern that this situation could lead to a tragedy. There may be apartment buildings that have not been built to any standards and the local authority may be satisfied with this. These amendments will create a greater degree of action on these issues. The Minister of State is talking about self regulation and, while I do not doubt the professional integrity of those involved, we have buildings that do not meet fire safety regulations and for which a fire safety certificate has never even been sought. This is a serious situation and we must ensure it is addressed in this legislation.

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