Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 46: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider an overhaul of the composition of the Building Regulations Advisory Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31204/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Section 14 of the Building Control Act 1990 provides for the establishment of the Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB) to advise me on matters relating to the Building Regulations.

The BRAB is comprised of nominated representatives of key construction industry stakeholders (both private and public sectors) and includes a member nominated by the National Consumer Agency. It provides expert advice on proposed changes to Building Regulations and has no executive function. Building Regulations are subject to ongoing review by my Department, working in conjunction with the BRAB. All proposed changes to the Building Regulations must also be subjected to public consultation and a rigorous Regulatory Impact Analysis before being signed into law. Every reasonable effort is made, and will continue to be made, to ensure that the broadest possible range of interests, not least those of the consumer, are included in the ongoing review of the regulations.

I will shortly be seeking expressions of interest from persons willing to serve on the Building Regulations Advisory Body. This opportunity will be advertised publicly on my Department's website in the near future. I anticipate a high level of interest and I look forward to making suitable appointments in the coming months.