NORTHERN IRELAND
Legal update on defective premises Northern Ireland members visited law firm TLT in Belfast to receive a legal update and an opportunity to network. Produced in haste in response to the Victoria Square apartments case, the Defective Premises (Northern Ireland) Act 2024 legislation brings significant changes to how developers and construction businesses operate. The FMB has been lobbying against the challenges that the law could bring to members, such as: ● increasing the risk of legal action; and ● raising liability insurance costs for building firms across Northern Ireland. TLT’s lead construction solicitor, Nuala Maguire, provided an informative presentation, leading to many questions and debates. There was a practical focus on understanding what the new act means for business, with practical steps to manage risk and future-proof operations.
FMB members Daniel Bowden of Bridge Construction North West Ltd (left) and Martin Boardman of MWB Residence Ltd (right) at Wigan & Leigh College & C-TEC
NORTH
Skills in focus
Construction skills continue to be highlighted in the media, by the government, and in discussions with North England regional C-TECs (technical colleges) in Wigan, Sunderland and Leeds – as well as with members. “Often the problems and skills gaps are discussed more than the solutions, and this feels like a bit of a doom loop,” North Director Carolyn Frank said. “If you know of great work being done locally at a school or college, or have positive stories about recruitment, training or on-the-job learning, please get in touch. We need to shout more about what works. “Also as business owners, please recommend good training to us so we can all raise quality standards together.”
NORTHERN IRELAND
Planning for the future FMB Northern Ireland, with support from its board, continues to work with the Department of Communities on a refined piece of legislation. As more aspects of the Building Safety Act become law in Northern Ireland, the FMB hopes to see a review of the Defective Buildings Premises Act, including liability periods for contractors, and the law applying to buildings taller than 11 metres rather than across all projects. Northern Ireland Director Gavin McGuire and FMB National Board representative Mark Gribben met with department officials to review current legislation proposals and departmental changes. A key point of focus was motivating for building regulations responsibilities moving from the Department of Finance to the Department of Communities, which the FMB has requested for some time now.
NORTH
Planning for a busy year ahead FMB North has exciting plans for North England in 2026, with three member events planned from April onwards.
Keep an eye on the FMB Member App and follow FMB North on social media for announcements and invitations to all. “It is important that we represent and listen to the whole membership,” said North Director Carolyn Frank, “so I’m always looking for new members who want to get involved in shaping policy at FMB, whether informally or by standing for member election, speaking to the media, giving your views on industry news, or sharing your story and projects with us. Keep in touch.”
Members should use the FMB’s updated suite of contracts, which include domestic and commercial versions suitable for use in Northern Ireland. Scan the QR code for the updated contracts.
CONTACT ● Gavin McGuire , NI Director Email: gavinmcguire@fmb.org.uk | Call: 07341 869 080
www.instagram.com/fnbnorth/ www.facebook.com/fmbnorth/
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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