Ombudsman backs Chamber of Geologists' argument for BCCC membership
The Building and Construction Consultative Council has been taking decisions regarding geology when its members are not competent to do so, chamber says
The Ombudsman has upheld a complaint by the Chamber of Geologists about its exclusion from the Building and Construction Consultative Council (BCCC) and recommended its inclusion without delay.
In a statement the chamber said it had filed a complaint after its request to be made a member of the council was turned down. The BCCC is composed of stakeholders of the building and construction industry such as contractors, professionals, developers and educational institutions that advise the Building Construction Authority (BCA).
"Persons who are not geologists are taking decisions regarding geology and its applications when they are not competent to do so. This situation has dangerous consequences to public safety as seen over the past years." the chamber said.
It said the Ombudsman in his report had confirmed that geologists were primary stakeholders within the construction industry. He referred to the Jean Paul Sofia Public inquiry report which highlighted the important role of geologists in the construction industry and public safety.
The Ombudsman also rejected the notion that the Malta Chamber of Geologists should have the status of guest member and recommended instead that the government should admit the Chamber as a full member to the BCCC without delay.
PN backs geologists' request
The Nationalist Party in a statement welcomed the Ombudsman’s report.
"This is another important step towards greater transparency, professional competence, and public safety within the construction sector — values that have all but vanished under the current Government," shadow minister Stanley Zammit said.
He added that geologists must be formally recognised through a state-issued warrant; and the Chamber of Geologists should be a permanent, independent member of the BCCC.
A national geological service should also be established in Malta, as is the case in many European countries.
"These measures are essential to prevent further fatal accidents. The tragedy of Jean Paul Sofia’s death should have taught us this much," Zammit said.