Plans are underway for the introduction of an electronic plan-processing solution which is expected to enhance the efficiency and security of the processing of building permit applications.

The Minister with responsibility for Works, the Hon. Desmond Bannister, made the announcement during his contribution to the Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Monday, June 19; he described it as “welcome news” for customers who require the services of the Building Control Division of his Ministry.

He said the software tool will have “tremendous” impact on improving the efficiency and access to individual file data for both the administration and the public.

“My Ministry commits to enhancing the ease of doing business,” said Minister Bannister. “It is common knowledge that the approval process for construction is cumbersome, labour-intensive, and needlessly expensive to the customer.

“Currently, an applicant has to submit several copies of a plan – each to go to various agencies of Government for consideration, wasting time for circulation and money for printing.”

Moreover, Minister Bannister invited stakeholders to participate in the drafting of Regulations for the Construction Contractors Act.

Following its enactment, a Construction Contractors Board will be appointed that will be tasked with the establishment, assessment and placement of applicants in categories on a newly-created register based on their qualifications and experience.

“When this inaugural board begins its function, we bear in mind that contractors will have two years to do what is necessary to qualify for registration. This legislation is absolutely necessary to protect consumers against illegal, improper or unethical construction contracting practices, and we shall work closely with our stakeholders to enforce its provisions,” he said.

Minister Bannister informed Parliamentarians that the Ministry of Works will continue work on the Construction Contractors Lien Bill, which is intended to protect professionals from the risk of not being paid for services rendered, among other things.

“Too often, particularly subcontractors are left with no avenue to claim against a property after supplying labour or materials for work on that property. This legislative proposal provides a remedy,” he said.

By Kathryn Campbell

Bahamas Information Services