Stronger enforcement of building regulations is needed if Fiji’s construction industry is to thrive, say sector stakeholders who are calling for tighter oversight and compliance.
Construction Industry Council president Jon Orton said Government must take action to improve both the education of young workers and enforce building standards.
Mr Orton said one of the biggest issues was the lack of proper registration for engineers.
While the Architects Registration Board continues to operate, Mr Orton said, the Engineers Registration Board still isn’t legally established, despite efforts of the current government to move forward.
“The ERB is something we’re confident will be sorted soon with the Government’s support,” he said.
The construction council is also partnering with universities and technical schools to improve qualifications for those entering the construction field.
“These efforts will help raise standards and better prepare workers for the future.”
Mr Orton said too many buildings were being approved without proper oversight, often resulting in costly mistakes and structures ill-suited for Fiji’s tropical climate.
He is urging the authorities to enforce laws that require professionals to submit development plans.
“Regulations need to be followed.
“We cannot let poorly built structures harm developers or the public.”
Mr Orton sees the construction sector as a key part of the economy, and he’s calling for continued collaboration between the Government and industry experts to improve the sector’s future.
