NI Energy Minister, Arlene Foster has launched the 'Big Change' gas safety awareness campaign in Belfast, today.

The campaign is aimed at helping all 150,000 gas consumers in Northern Ireland better understand the switch over from the CORGI to the Gas Safe Register scheme for gas installers.

The switch over will bring Northern Ireland into line with Great Britain.

From the beginning of April 2010, anyone undertaking the installation, maintenance or repair of a gas appliance must be legally registered on the Gas Safe Register. Membership of the register will give the public an assurance that the gas engineers working in their homes are trained and competent to do a safe job.

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"The 'Big Change' campaign is an important development, particularly in the run up to the switch over from CORGI to the Gas Safe Register," said Minister Foster.

"All gas consumers need to be aware of this change and ensure that if they do need gas work done, they use gas installers and engineers registered with the new Gas Safe Register. They should look out for the new yellow triangle which will be the hallmark for gas safety in Northern Ireland."

Responding to the Minister’s comments, the Gas Safe Register’s Managing Director, Paul Johnston, said: "The Gas Safe Register must quickly replace CORGI in the minds of gas consumers and so the new brand name is simple, meaningful and speaks for itself. We hope that the brand becomes a true legacy to gas safety and registered gas engineers for years to come."

The Gas Safe Register aims to offer the public an improved service, making it easier for them to find and check an engineer. All Gas Safe Register engineers will carry a photo ID card with a unique license number, as well as details of the gas work they are qualified to carry out.

(NS/GK)