Professional Assistance Service Launched for Those Affected by Construction Works

Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction sector Jonathan Attard launched a new service offered by the Building and Construction Authority, aimed at assisting those affected by construction free of charge.

This service will start being provided following a public call process which led to the setting up of a panel of 20 professionals, composed of 10 lawyers and 10 periti.

Minister Attard stated that the Government is committed in continue supporting citizens and is therefore launching this new service which also complements the recently launched helpline 138, which provides 24/7 support to those with immediate construction-related concerns and health and safety at work. These two services will thus form a comprehensive assistance system designed to give citizens the tools to address their concerns effectively.

“We believe that every individual has the right to understand the implications of development in his neighbourhood and to safeguard his interests. We have a clear vision to empower those affected with the necessary knowledge and resources so that they can understand the complexities of construction projects even with technical assistance”, said Minister Attard.

Minister Attard added that this initiative is another link in a chain of initiatives and reforms that the sector is going through.

“Affected third parties who used to take a step backwards, and perhaps worse than this, will come to a close in the face of danger, we will now be providing them with this assistance to help them defend their interests and above all guarantee their and their loved ones’ safety”, said Minister Attard.

He explained that affected third parties will be able to seek professional and independent advice and assistance on their legal rights, including on aspects of legal servitudes and distance. As well as technical advice by an architect on the method statement, how the work will be carried out and how this may affect their property.

The team of lawyers and experienced periti is available to hear, advise and assist each individual in the best possible way.

“This service goes beyond the aims of the electoral manifesto and the recommendations of the public inquiry linked to the death of Jean Paul Sofia. This is a service based on the experiences of persons suffering and the Authority’s experiences in certain issues that have developed”, said Minister Attard while thanking dedicated professionals who joined forces to make this service a reality.

Noting the positive response of the helpline in the first weeks since the launch, Minister Attard said that since the launch of the service an average of 80 calls were received every day, with 75% being related to questions or reports on construction works.

Acting CEO of the Building and Construction Authority, Perit Roderick Bonnici, also spoke about the ongoing restructuring of the Authority, as it is further strengthening its regulatory role and updating with initiatives and services aimed at offering easier access to affected citizens.

Also present for this conference were the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Justice and Reform of the Construction sector, Johan Galea and the CEO of Servizz.gov, Massimo Vella.