Seanad debates

Wednesday, 10 March 2010

Multi-Unit Developments Bill 2009: Committee Stage

 

1:00 pm

Photo of Joe O'TooleJoe O'Toole (Independent)

I do not have to propose it formally. Having listened to most of the Minister's response, I am glad to hear he is sympathetic to the point we are putting forward. We are trying to achieve consumer protection in a safe and quantifiable way that does not damage any of the interested parties. In many ways it complements what would happen in the public sector. Senator Bacik touched on the idea of local authorities which are about to take over an estate insisting on the development being completely finished. We have seen the chaos created in places around the country where an estate has not been finished properly and the local authority cannot take responsibility where it is unfinished.

A similar position can arise for apartments and the 5% that is withheld could allow some leverage to make essential changes or improvements. I listened to the Minister's comments and accept much of his argument. Does the Minister have any ideas on how to make this work having considered best practice in other countries and jurisdictions? Does he have any ideas on protecting the consumer while giving leverage to a management company and putting pressure on a developer to ensure finality? Does the Minister have a best-case scenario in mind and should we consider issues for Report Stage? Could we do more?

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