Sir, – Your geologist correspondent, (Letters, December 8th), raised some important points. But the geological aspects have been covered in the very comprehensive expert report on the mica in concrete blocks problem presented to the minister in 2017.
That report contained important recommendations designed to prevent the recurrence of these problems by addressing the serious and systemic shortcomings of the current process.
They involved, strengthening the building regulations in the areas of enforcement, market surveillance, site inspections and the introduction of a minimum skill-set competency for construction personnel. Importantly it also recommended further research and the elimination of an opt-out clause which can be used to avoid the procedures specified in the building regulations if a private house is self-built.
To my knowledge no discussion has taken place or progress made on implementing these recommendations even though the taxpayer is expected to stump up at least €2 billion to remedy a situation for which there are still no controls in place to prevent a repeat.
– Yours, etc,
JOHN M MOLLOY,
Sandyford, Dublin 16 .