Builders meet a brick wall of regulations

Strict regulations are stalling construction projects around Galway – because many builders and contractors are unable to meet the new requirements.

The Government introduced the new Building Regulations on March 1 – which effectively require contractors to join the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) – are a “major obstacle”.

It is understood the new regulations have already caused delays on the planned Ballinfoile Neighbourhood Centre.

And fears have been voiced by those in the construction sector that Galway City will not be able to meet the demand for more than 2,300 new homes, which has been identified by the State Housing Agency.

One building contractor, who did not wish to be named, told the Galway City Tribune: “The regulations were introduced to prevent disasters like Priory Hall in Dublin and get rid of the cowboys, but what they’ve really done is drive the reputable guys out of business, too.

“If a builder wants to be regarded as competent, they have to register on CIRI. They have to show they’re tax compliant, have insurance and produce qualification documentation.

“How many subbies out there are tax compliant, with almost every single one of them having been screwed on payments at some point by a bankrupt developer?

“There are guys out there ready and willing to work, they do the best of work, and they can’t because of these new regulations,” he said.

Mayor Padraig Conneely said he understood that there had been delays in progressing the new Ballinfoile Neighbourhood Centre – where contracts are set to be signed next week – because some sub-contractors were unable to produce full documentation to meet the new regulations.

“These regulations were introduced to ensure everybody is in order and has certification, but it has slowed down the entire process and building projects in Galway are being delayed,” said Cllr Conneely.

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.