Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to this debate. The Multi-Unit Developments Bill 2009 seeks to introduce regulation of multi-unit developments by addressing issues relating to the obligations of developers and the governance of owners' management companies. It aims to protect the owners of units in both new and existing multi-unit developments. It also provides for the transfer of common areas to the owners' management company prior to the sale of any units, which I strongly support. It makes provision for voting rights and makes the establishment and maintenance of schemes of service charges and sinking funds mandatory. Both mediation and court-based resolution systems are set out for resolving disputes. This Bill, along with the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009, will, if enacted, provide new regulation in the area of property management.

I noted that Deputy Burton mentioned almost every district in Blanchardstown, so I assume I can mention every estate in my area which, as some Members may know, is Tallaght.

See this speech in context