An independent architects' council needs to be established to avoid any future conflicts of interest in the architectural profession, according to a new report by the Competition Authority.
The final report, which investigated competition issues associated with the architectural profession, warns that proposed changes in how it is regulated could have negative consequences for consumers.
Changes are due under the Building Control Bill 2005.
According to the report by the Competition Authority, particular concerns arise from the "influence and control" awarded to the Royal Institute of Architects (RIAI) in determining who is allowed to use the title of architect.
The authority also recommends that the RIAI should not have the power to make appointments to boards and committees which scrutinise and regulate the architectural profession.
The Competition Authority has recommended the establishment of an architects council to bring the regulation of architects into line with other professions.
Declan Purcell, director of the Competition Authority's advocacy division, said the authority had only a "small number of concerns" about how the architectural profession operated.
However, if proposed changes were implemented, "it will establish in law a conflict of interest where the RIAI will represent the interest of its members while at the same time will be responsible for the rules and practices which are designed to protect the public interest".
While broadly welcoming yesterday's report, which found that there were few barriers to competition in the profession, the RIAI said the authority's criticism of the Building Control Bill was "misguided". RIAI director John Graby said that the regulation system as proposed would be independent.