Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 556: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when legislation for the regulation of management companies will be enacted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32105/06]

Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Apartment complex management companies are generally constituted under the Companies Acts and are required to comply with the provisions of company law, which is a matter for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. It is understood that proposals are being developed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for a Company Law Reform and Consolidation Bill which it is expected will include certain provisions relating to management companies.

The Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) will have the function of licensing, regulating and dealing with complaints relating to managing agents. These are commercial firms engaged by management companies to carry out day-to-day management and maintenance. The Authority will also have a public information function in relation to property management. The PSRA, and its functions, will be statutorily provided for in legislation now being prepared by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. I understand that an Implementation Group and a Director Designate are already in place.

In addition the Law Reform Commission is currently examining legal aspects generally regarding the management of multi-unit structures and its consultation paper is expected shortly. A final report will then be prepared following the consultation period and its recommendations will be considered by the Departments concerned, including the need for new measures to be taken in this area.