THE creation of a new Building Standards Agency has been questioned and the Government has been warned that there can never be another defective block crisis.
These issues were raised this week, two years after the European Commission opened an infringement procedure against Ireland in July 2024 for failing to carry out proper market surveillance under the EU Construction Products Regulation.
The EC claimed that Ireland risked having defective construction products available across the European Union because its quality checks were limited to on-site measures.
At a meeting of the full council today (Monday), Inishowen Cllr Joy Beard of the 100% Redress Party said: “This is about making sure that the defective block crisis never happens again.”
Cllr Beard told councillors that she is looking for a “clear update” on the Building Standards Agency that was to be set up as part of Ireland’s response to the crisis.
Inishowen Cllr Joy Beard of the 100% Redress Party said: “This is about making sure that the defective block crisis never happens again.”
She said: “When will it be set up? We need proactive surveillance and to make sure that no other generations go through this.”
Her motion stated: “That Donegal County Council notes that the European Commission opened an infringement case against Ireland for failure to carry out required market surveillance of construction products.
“The council further notes that the interim Building Standards Agency was to be established between July and December 2026.
“The council calls on the Minister for Housing to confirm when the Agency will be operational; its staffing, budget and inspection powers; and its programme for independent, proactive testing of construction products, including aggregates and concrete at source.
“The council also calls for the publication of Ireland’s commitments to the Commission and a funded timetable for the establishment of the independent Building Standards Regulatory Authority. #
“A copy of this motion shall issue to the minister and all local authorities.”
Her motion was seconded by Cllr Denis McGee and supported by her fellow councillors.
The council confirmed that “arrangements will be made to write to the minister outlining this request and will share with all local authorities”.
