29 May 2002

Parliament tonight passed Nelson MP Nick Smith's private members bill creating a new set of laws for the 15,000 engineering professionals in New Zealand.

"Engineers are the cutting edge of a knowledge economy but with a 1924 governing statute, the professional laws need sharpening up. This new law will help deliver higher standards, greater innovation and better international recognition for New Zealand engineers."

The law makes five major changes:

-Engineers will be able to be struck off for incompetent practise

-Engineers will be required to follow a new code of ethics

-Engineers must engage in ongoing professional development

-Engineering qualifications will be more portable internationally, and the new term chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) replaces the term Registered Engineer (RE) to bring it in line with Australia and the UK

-The Institute of Professional Engineers (IPENZ) takes over responsibility from the Engineers Registration Board for managing the occupational regulations.

"New Zealand engineers have an awesome history, from early bridges and mines, hydro and geothermal power stations to modern electronics and yacht building. This new law is about ensuring we maintain the spirit of engineering innovation."

Dr Smith, who is a civil engineer, introduced the Bill in 2000. The new law takes effect on 1st July 2002.

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