Irish Water has launched a new Experience Based Accreditation Scheme for contractors across Ireland, 18 months ahead of plan. The scheme facilitates experienced contractors in becoming accredited to deliver new water services infrastructure in public roads for housing developers.

The new scheme is welcomed by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), the Irish Homebuilders Association (IHBA) and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). The scheme recognises contractors’ adherence to Irish Waters Standard Details, Codes of Practice and Quality Assurance procedures. These best practice procedures and standards have been developed by Irish Water to prevent a reoccurrence of legacy issues that exist across the country. The launch of this accreditation scheme will now provide greater flexibility for developers in the delivery of water services.

Yvonne Harris, Irish Water’s Housing Programme Director, said: “We’re calling on contractors across the country to apply for our new accreditation, which is supported by the CIF, IHBA and CRU. The new scheme supports greater efficiency in the delivery of housing while maintaining the highest standards for water services infrastructure. Irish Water is committed to playing our part in the national drive to provide homes to people who need them in line with the Government’s Housing for All strategy. The scheme also ensures safe and reliable water services will continue to be provided to new home buyers and existing residents, now and into the future.”

James Benson, Director of Housing, Planning & Development with CIF, added: “CIF welcomes this excellent initiative by Irish Water which will facilitate us to deliver housing in a timely and efficient manner. Our members are committed to meeting the highest standards in the construction of housing and associated infrastructure. This Experience Based Accreditation Scheme recognises this and supports the ongoing development of expertise in the water industry by developers and contractors through accreditation.”

Information on how to sign up is now available online and we would encourage those interested in applying for the new accreditation to visit www.water.ie/accreditation.