A new voluntary code of practice set up by the National Property Services Regulatory Authority (NPSRA) for estate agents and auctioneers will allow complaints made by the public to be investigated.

The code will remain voluntary until the act establishing the newly formed NPSRA is passed by the Oireachtas next year.

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The board will have no power to fine or suspend estate agents from practice while the code remains voluntary however a warning or a recommendation may be made to the agent's representative body that it be suspended from membership.

Dáil Minister for Justice Brian Lenihan launched the new code along with a public register of licensed auctioneers and estate agents on Monday.

(GK/JM)