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Non-EU construction skills now recognised under law

A new statutory instrument will facilitate the recognition of construction ‘Safe Pass’ safety training and other skills certification from non-EU states. 

Pat Breen (Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection) signed into effect the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) (Amendment) Regulations 2019[SI No 129 of 2019]. 

The regulations will amend the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013[SI No 291 of 2013] to facilitate recognition of equivalent registration cards to ‘Safe Pass’ and construction skills certification schemes (CSCS) from states other than EU Member States. 

Post-Brexit

This will be particularly relevant in a post-Brexit environment, according to the Health and Safety Authority. 

The regulations also change any references from FÁS to SOLAS (n tSeirbhís Oideachais Leanúnaigh agus Scileanna) and similarly change references from FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council) to QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland). 

The regulations also make specific provision in respect of the period of validity of a Safe Pass card.