Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 June 2023
178. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his views in regard to the upcoming Bill for construction workers and the proposed new licence system for construction workers to replace the current system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28729/23]
View answerI fully support the introduction of the Construction Safety Licensing Bill as it represents an important contribution by my Department to strengthening the statutory framework for health and safety training in Ireland.
The objective underpinning this Bill is to ensure that the number of accidents and fatalities on construction sites will fall as we continue to produce highly skilled workers who are confident and competent to work in a safe manner.
Activities that are currently covered by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and the Quarries Skills Certification Scheme (QSCS), and administered by QQI as certificates for life, will move to a new licensing model under this Bill.
A licensing authority will be established to oversee this model and administer licences. All applicants for worker and tutor licences must demonstrate a level of competency and proficiency in their roles to successfully renew their licence.
The licensing model will impact the construction sector by transforming the health and safety practices of construction workers, and will aim to reduce workplace accidents, injuries and fatalities on sites.
This licensing model gives those within the construction sector the chance to obtain occupational recognition.
Through regulating these activities, and further embedding health and safety considerations into training, the licensing model will assist in meeting workforce requirements, skills and objectives outlined in a number of Government strategies, including Housing for All and the National Development Plan.
And finally, through widening the awareness of skills and occupations within the sector, there is also an opportunity to support increased female participation, furthering gender equality in the sector.
