The CER (Commission for Energy Regulation) has proposed that the testing, certification and verification courses which Electricians need to attend to obtain a QC (Qualified Certifier) number should become an accredited course.
They have suggested that the new requirements be introduced from June 2013. It is proposed that the new course would be a level 6 Fetec and it would be necessary to pass a written exam to obtain the qualification. Also the new qualification will be valid for 5 years instead of the current 3 years.
Both RECI and ECSSA have indicated their willingness to take what ever steps necessary to be in a position to provide the training for their own members.
It is understood that it will be at least January 2014 before the RECI and ECSSA trainers have obtained the necessary qualifications to become certified trainers to meet the CER’s new requirements. This in effect will mean that there is likely to be only one provider in a position to provide the training between June 2013 and January 2014.
While the cost and duration remain unknown we are confident that there will be increased costs for Contractors.
Contractors who attend an in house course with either RECI or ECSSA between now and June, will be issued a QC number which will remain valid for 3 years.
AECI would advise that if your QC number is due in 2013 it would be advisable to sit the course before June 2013.
AECI are unhappy with any additional costs being put on its members and will be following this up with the CER.
A reminder that the RECI AGM will take place on Saturday 8th of June in the GreenIsle Hotel @ 10.30am and we would advise all RECI members to attend and have there voice heard.
The Electrical National Joint Industrial Council had it’s monthly meeting yesterday in the Labour Court. Present were the Labour Court personnell; TEEU; ECA & AECI Delegates.
The TEEU produced documents of proof relating to the Rates of Pay on offer to Contractors from Agencies also highlighted were Contractors that are being either investigated or chased.
No decision has been received yet from the Supreme Court regarding the challenge to the REA, which follows that no date can be set for the TEEU/ECA ‘s application for their New REA. It is envisaged that a decision from the Supreme Court could be late February or early March 2013.
Please note important dates as follows:
1. AECI AGM will take place on Saturday 9 March 2013 at 10 am in the Red Cow Morans Hotel, Dublin.
The AECI Council requests that as many as possible should attend this AGM and be informed about the Industries aims and expectations.
2. The Electrical Trade Show 2013 will take place on Saturday 7 September 2013 in the Red Cow Morans Hotel, Dublin.
More information to follow regarding Seminars & Training at this event and also to follow our Seminar on Emergency Lighting, which took place on 18 January ’13, we are arranging Topics for mid February ’13.
The representatives of all Irish Electrical Contractors Associations meet today to discuss the many common issues concerning our Electrical Industry.
We will keep you informed of any progress.
We have been informed by Senator Fergal Quinn’s Office as follows:
” It is hoped, that the Construction Bill, with ammendments, will go before the Cabinet next Tuesday 29 January 2013.
It is also hoped, that the Bill will be enacted before Easter and the understanding is that the €200k threshold will be gone.
The Bill will also require, that the Adjudication will be BINDING on the Government”
AECI Executive Council will be watching this very closely and will keep you informed.
- Emergency Lighting Seminar
Thermia Heat Pump: Models 1050 and 1550
A potential fire safety hazardh has been identified regarding the above heat pumps. If you have installed one of the above pumps, or are aware of any consumers who have one, please advise consumers that they should IMMEDIATELY SWITCH THEIR PUMP TP ELECTRIC HEATING MODE TO PREVENT THR FIRE HAZARD IDENTIFIED until a representative of Thermia (www.thermia.com) has fixed the problem. Please advise consumers to telephone our helpline on 0046 70 399 5757 or 0046 76 477 07 oe email us at anders.delarose@thermia.com or peter.phillipp@thermia.com for instructions.