The Department for Communities has taken responsibility for the implementation of significant new work to address fire safety in high rise and other residential buildings across Northern Ireland.

The Department will implement the Department of Finance Expert Panel report 'Improving Safety in High Rise Residential Buildings in Northern Ireland' which was developed in response to the Grenfell tragedy.

A key focus for the new Residential Building Safety Team will be the development of a new legislative framework, supported by an extensive outreach programme due to begin later this month.

Alongside initial research and scoping exercises the Department will be seeking the views of residents of high rise residential buildings to inform consideration of building safety issues here and, in particular, fire safety matters stemming from building design, construction and ongoing operation and maintenance.

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Head of the Residential Building Safety Team, Derek Kennedy said: "People are at the heart of what we do in the Department so we're particularly keen to involve residents at the earliest opportunity. Their input is essential as this policy evolves, and a key part of the development of a legislative framework.

"I would encourage residents of high rise buildings to register and come along to one of the information sessions. Stakeholder engagement and consultation will be central as we move forward, both in terms of gaining insight and wider public understanding of this work."

Information sessions for residents of high rise buildings have been scheduled as follows:

• Tuesday, January 30, 2024 – Public Record Office of Northern Ireland – Belfast (At 11am and 2pm);

• Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – Guildhall - Derry/Londonderry (At 11am and 2pm); and

• Thursday, February 1, 2024 – Online session (at 7pm).

To register for any of these sessions, use the following link.

Further engagement will take place with building owners, the construction industry and manufacturers, and other interested parties from the public and private sectors.