Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there are plans to introduce regulations regarding the qualifications of gas installers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24044/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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Natural gas and, in particular, the safe use of this important resource is a key priority. I have undertaken to strengthen existing legislation with the aim of enhancing public safety and reducing the number of gas related accidents taking place annually. To this end, I have obtained Government approval to prioritise the drafting of natural gas safety legislation that will be included in the energy (miscellaneous provisions) Bill.

The legislation being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel provides, inter alia, that the promotion and regulation of safety in the downstream natural gas sector, including gas installers, shall become a function of the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER. Stemming from this, it is proposed the CER will establish and implement a natural gas safety regulatory framework and report to me on its functioning.

In parallel with this process, my Department has carried out a public consultation process in conjunction with the CER in respect of natural gas safety, both as a clear signal to the market of my intention to see regulation strengthened in this area and also to allow the sector to provide positive inputs on the new safety regime proposed. The legislation also provides for a scheme of regulation specifically aimed at gas installers. Such a scheme will ensure that all future work on natural gas fittings conforms to the appropriate safety standards. It will also make it unlawful for any person who is not a certified natural gas installer to work on a natural gas fitting.