Fine Gael Limerick TD, Patrick O'Donovan, has called for the Construction Contracts Bill to be passed into law as quickly as possible, in light of a number of Government investment announcements which will result in significant contracts for the construction industry.

Mr O'Donovan said: "The Construction Contracts Bill, which was first introduced by Senator Fergal Quinn, aims to regulate payments in the construction industry and create a fairer playing field for sub-contractors. It's hoped it will improve payment practices within the industry, by introducing a statutory right to interim payments at specified times during the course of a construction contract and the so-called 'pay when paid' clauses will be banned.

-- Advertisement --

"It is a very welcome piece of legislation that has the potential to overhaul the construction industry. It is essential, in my view, that the Bill is passed into law as quickly as possible in light of renewed Government investment in infrastructure which will result in significant construction contracts being awarded. This includes the €150 investment package announced by the Government last month, which will be used to build new schools, carry out road repairs and energy efficiency projects.

"We must ensure that sufficient legislative protections are in place for all players in the construction industry as these State projects are being carried out. The Construction Contracts Bill offers these protections, and it is imperative that it is passed into law as soon as possible. I would also call for any projects that are already underway, such as school building projects, to be included in the remit of the Bill."

(CD/JP)