The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has called on the next Government to prioritise housing, planning and a sustainable built environment.
Publishing its manifesto, the RIAI sets out six actions which it says are vital to the delivery of housing targets.
1. Replace Ireland's current approach to planning with a proactive and integrated vision that embraces architectural and planning expertise and utilising 3D technology.
2. Resource Local Authorities and State Agencies with vital architectural and urban design leadership expertise and remove uncertainties in the planning process, as recommended in the RIAI Planning Initiatives document.
3. Review the procurement and public works contract systems to deliver efficiencies and reduce unproductive bureaucracies.
4. Commit to fully funding local feasibility studies and retrofitting pilot schemes with a strong emphasis on meeting Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) requirements for zero emissions in public buildings by 2028 and all buildings by 2030.
5. Commit to multi-annual funding for Ireland’s National Policy on Architecture, Places for People.
6. Provide free access to vital Building Standards to all Registered Architects. These vital documents are essential to deliver quality, safe buildings and are currently a prohibitive cost on small business. This is a matter of public safety.
Sean Mahon, RIAI President said the upcoming election is a critical one for the future of the country.
"Although our economy is strong, we face many challenges as a society, and we need to ensure that our next Government is prepared to address these issues," he said.
"The formation of the next Government will dictate not just whether our people can live in affordable accommodation, but whether they have homes that are environmentally sustainable and resilient, pleasant to live in and close to amenities, services and public transport," he added.
