Barry Andrews (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputy Olivia Mitchell for raising this important issue, which affects both of our constituencies. At the outset, I place clearly on the record of the House my sympathy for those homeowners in the Carrickmines Manor complex whose properties were damaged by this morning's roof collapse. We have seen very clearly over the past week the destruction that can be caused by the powerful forces of nature, be they in the form of wind or rain, and the upset and difficulties that can be caused for families having to move out of their homes as a result.

The legal requirements regarding the construction of new buildings, including houses and extensions to, and material alterations of, existing buildings, are set out in the building control code. A comprehensive suite of related technical guidance documents provide detailed guidance on how to comply with the regulations. Under the provisions of the Building Control Act 1990, responsibility for compliance with the building regulations rests with the builder and the owner of a building. Enforcement is a matter for the local building control authority, which is empowered to carry out inspections and initiate enforcement proceedings when considered necessary.

With regard to the Carrickmines Manor incident, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has been in contact with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, in whose administrative area the development is located. I understand that in response to a request from the fire service this morning, officials from the council's dangerous buildings section went to the scene of the event, where they met with representatives from the developer and their consultant engineers. I understand also that in addition to the fire service, the Garda, the council's housing department and representatives of the managing agent engaged to manage the apartment complex were also in attendance.

In total, three apartment blocks and a number of houses were evacuated. The immediate housing needs of the evacuated residents are being looked after by the developer and the property management agent. In terms of dealing with the physical issue on-site, the council has indicated that measures are being taken to remove the debris of the fallen roof. In addition, steps are being taken to secure the roof of the remainder of that block and of the two adjacent apartment blocks as a precautionary measure.

As the House will appreciate, the response to this incident is at an early stage. It would not be appropriate to become involved in matters that may ultimately have to be resolved between the developer, the residents and their insurers, but the council has been asked to keep the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government apprised of developments in its response to the incident.

In conclusion, I thank everyone, particularly those in the emergency services and the county council, who attended the scene at Carrickmines Manor this morning and assisted the residents in responding to the difficult position in which they find themselves. I hope the parties involved can work quickly towards finding a resolution and ensure that the residents do not have to remain out of their homes for any longer than is absolutely necessary.

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