Since my predecessor approved the new mechanism for the future regulation of the electrical contracting industry, work has been ongoing to implement the agreed interim measures. The Commission for Energy Regulation agreed and published an implementation timetable for the new approach in August 2002. The distribution system operator was tasked with developing new and more detailed criteria which, when the legislation is in place, applicants to the commission for a licence to act as an electrical contracting regulatory body will be obliged to meet. In this regard, the DSO held discussions on the proposed new approach with all interested parties and, in particular, the following: the Association of Electrical Contractors of Ireland; the Electrical Contractors' Safety and Standards Association; the Electrical Contractors' Association; the Electro-Technical Council of Ireland; and the Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland.