MLP queries enforcement of energy saving rules

The Labour spokesman on the environment said today that it was not clear who was responsible for the enforcement of regulations issued in 2006 on energy saving measures which have to be introduced in new buildings.

Leo Brincat said the regulations were issued on November 1, 2006 and also applied to extensive structural alterations to existing buildings.

To date, he said, it was not clear if the government had appointed a monitoring board to ensure that these regulations were observed.

The role of architects with respect to the regulations was unclear.

Furthermore, a spokesman for MEPA had been quoted in the press as denying that it was that Authority which was responsible for the enforcement of those regulations. Other sources said it was actually the Resources Authority which was responsible, but nothing was being said on whether the regulations were actually being implemented and enforced.

Mr Brincat said the government needed to clarify matters and ensure that rules were followed, not least to avoid EU infringement procedures.