Building industry criticises 'barrage' of safety legislation
The construction industry has criticised what it says is a barrage of new health and safety legislation being introduced by the European Union.
The criticism comes despite on-going concerns about the standards of safety on building sites across Ireland.
Eight people have died in construction-related accidents so far this year, which is half the number of fatalities during the same period last year.
Inspections last year also found that just 55% of building sites were fully compliant with safety regulations.
The Construction Industry Federation claims legislation being introduced to try to improve the situation is not being adequately debated and Irish employers are not being properly consulted.
The organisation also says the legislation is adding to the costs of construction firms, which must be passed on to clients.
