Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have no difficulty having a debate on any issue relating to the budget but let us be constructive in dealing with it and deal with each issue about which people have concerns. Let us look at the overall budget and what we are trying to do in respect of achieving balance and fairness.

The Commission for Energy Regulation states that the number of disconnections more than doubled last year as a result of a crackdown on dodgy installations. This is a matter of major concern. While I accept that people are under financial pressure, opting for an illegal installation of a gas boiler could have tragic consequences. Tougher regulation is needed to protect consumers from this life threatening health and safety issue.

Most consumers are unaware that an approved list of installers is available from the Registered Gas Installers of Ireland. It is illegal for unapproved fitters to install a gas boiler. Lives are being lost every year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home related to domestic heating and other fossil fuel installations. The serious lack of regulatory enforcement allows illegal installers to continue to put lives at risk without worrying that they will be caught.

We all know the serious consequences of carbon monoxide poisoning. Illegal installation of gas boilers is one aspect of the black economy, which is an issue raised previously in the House. I call for a debate on health and safety, especially the enforcement of regulations on the installation of gas and other fossil fuel systems in homes.