Hon Maurice Williamson
Minister for Building and Construction
5 September 2013
Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Bill passed
Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson has welcomed the passing of the Plumbers, Gasfitters and
Drainlayers Amendment Bill today.
The Amendment Bill validates a disciplinary levy and an offences fee charged by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers
Board, and clarifies its authority to impose a disciplinary and prosecution levy.
“It was always intended that the Board could collect money from the industry to pay for its investigations and
prosecutions, including those against unlicensed cowboys. Unfortunately, the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act
2006, which was passed by the Labour Government, was flawed and left this open to question.
“We have amended the Act and fixed Labour’s mistake. It will allow the Board to be appropriately funded to carry out all
of its statutory functions, including the protection of public health and safety.
“The industry benefits from maintaining high standards and stopping unqualified people putting the public at risk and
taking work from licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers,” Maurice Williamson says.
ends