Approximately 100,000 gas boilers have been installed illegally from 2009, according to a new report.

The report on the regulation and inspection of gas installers also raises issues surrounding the status of home insurance where an illegal installation has taken place.

Deputy Michael Colreavy, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, said it is a very "serious and worrying" development.

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Deputy Colreavy said: "The report recommends that an independent expert is appointed to examine the extent of the illegal activity.

"It also recommends that legislation needs to be introduced to prevent boilers being sold to people who are not registered installers or customers who are dealing with registered installers.

"It is essential that these recommendations are followed through on because gas safety in family homes should be seen as priority."

(CD/JP)