Emmet Stagg (Kildare North, Labour)
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Question 89: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the promised new regulatory authority for auctioneers and estate agents will be established on a statutory basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36239/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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When I published the report of the Auctioneering/Estate Agency Review Group in October 2005, I announced that the Government had accepted its recommendation for the establishment of the Property Services Regulatory Authority to control and regulate the provision of property services provided by auctioneers, estate agents and property management agents.

The Government Legislation Programme published on 26 September last provides for publication of the Property Services Regulatory Authority Bill in 2007. It will give effect to the key recommendations of the Review Group, including establishment of the new Regulatory Authority. My Department is also preparing legislative proposals to provide for powers for the new Authority to deal comprehensively with the issue of estate management charges and management companies for apartments and housing estates.

Pending enactment of the legislation, I have set up an Implementation Group to assist and advise on practical matters relating to establishment of the new body and to prepare for the new licensing system. I am pleased to say that a Chief Executive designate has already been appointed and that Navan, Co. Meath has been chosen as the headquarters of the new Authority.