The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said the Construction Contractors Bill provides an avenue for aggrieved consumers to seek reddress, while also licensing and registering all industry practitioners.

Opening debate on the long-awaited legislation, Philip Davis said it would bring “comprehensive reform” to a sector that has been largely unregulated.

“Up until now Bahamian consumers have been exposed to a dangerously unregulated industry. Without professional licensing, consumers have been subjected to unscrupulous contractors, cost overruns and poor workmanship,” said Mr Davis.

“Clauses 20-27 of the Contractors Bill provide specific and expedient remedies for complaints  through a disciplinary Board that can suspend or revoke the license of a contractor or impose fines.

“When a  complaint  of improper conduct is made against a registered contractor, a disciplinary committee may be appointed by the Board and the complaint referred to the committee. Upon hearing the complaint the committee is empowered to make recommendations to the Board. The Board may make orders of a disciplinary nature, including the removal of that person’s name off the contractors register.”

Mr Davis added that the Bill contains provisions for the registration of contractors in the Bahamas, which must take place within two years of law’s enactment.

“Provisions are made for the registration of practitioners who can produce evidence of their craft,” he said. “This registration must take place within two years of the commencement of this Act.

“This applies to electrical and LPG contractors. Additional provisions allow a person immediately before the commencement of legislation, practicing as a construction contractor or contracting firm, to continue to do so without being registered or holding a license.”

Mr Davis added: “In order to be registered, you must be a citizen of the Bahamas, provide an affidavit that he has a relationship with a local bank and must submit to a background check. If the applicant is not a citizen he is eligible only to temporary registration.”