James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I do not understand the Minister's reference. When I spoke on Second Stage of this Bill two weeks ago I pointed out several anomalies in the Bill and I informed the Minister I would table amendments on Committee Stage.

The GIAI fully supports the aims of this Bill to introduce a system of registration for architects and for the elimination of rogue architects. This Bill fails to prescribe the methods of assessment to be used for those seeking registration. It gives the new registration body a free hand to choose any method of assessment it wishes. The registration body must be independent. Reference has been made in this House on many occasions about the independence of various bodies which are set up in the Oireachtas. The Competition Authority has recommended the establishment of this body and it must be fair and be seen to be fair. I wish to put my opinion on the record of the House that the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland is not independent. I ask the Minister to accept these amendments. I accept his concerns as he said he was not fully briefed, but he should not rush his decision.