Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 853: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is a definition of the profession architect which is recognised nationally and internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19005/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The EU architects directive — 85/384/EEC of 10 June 1985 —provides for the mutual recognition of diplomas, certificates and other formal qualifications in architecture to facilitate freedom to provide architectural services across borders within the EU. At present, the profession of architecture is not regulated in Ireland. Accordingly, recognition under the EU directive is not necessary for architects seeking to establish a practice in this country.

The Government plans to introduce the building control (amendment) Bill in the autumn. This Bill will provide for, inter alia, statutory protection of the title of "architect" so that only those who are suitably qualified and registered will be entitled to use the title "architect" when providing architectural services. As regards architects registered in other EU member states, the Bill will recognise those holding qualifications listed in the EU architects directive.