Minister Opens Registered Master Builders Conf.

Media Release

8 April 2010

Minister Opens Registered Master Builders Annual Conference

Hon Maurice Williamson, Minister for Building and Construction, gave the opening address at the Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF) Annual Conference this afternoon in Napier.

The Minister gave a report card of the number of large projects that have been launched by Government in the first few months of 2010 namely Multiproof, streamlining the Licensed Builder Practitioner scheme and the release of the Building Act discussion document - all components that collectively form the Better Building Blueprint aimed at better, safe buildings, at a better price - cutting cost not corners.

Delegates asked the Minister for an update on the work being done to address leaky buildings. Mr Williamson reiterated the enormity of the issue and that is without knowing what is still to come in some regions. He said that the Government is determined to do something about it and that any funds available will be aimed at directly fixing the homes - not on litigation. The Minister said that they are very close to finalising a package to present to Cabinet and is hoping to be able to announce the Government's intentions in the next month or two.

Warwick Quinn, CEO RMBF says 'we're very pleased with the Minister's performance in our sector over the last 16 months and we look forward to continuing to work with him on the policies that need to be put in place and in particular developing a satisfactory resolution to the weathertightness problem".

Also speaking at RMBF's Conference over the next three days is Rodney Dickens - Strategic Risk Analysis Ltd, Jonathan Ling - Fletcher Building Ltd and Paul Lawrence - Master Builders Association, NSW. There are also a number of workshops aimed at increasing builders' knowledge to run their businesses more successfully.

RMBF's conference is attended by RMB builder members, sponsors and building and construction industry leaders.

ENDS

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