The guarantee given by Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard regarding construction sector enforcement was most welcome.

Asked by The Malta Independent if he could guarantee that the authorities wouldn't fear using their ability to revoke licences for rule breakers, that if such a step is needed it would be taken, the minister said: "That guarantee can be given, as long as it is within the parameters of what is permissible by law."

There are a number of actions which the authorities can take against rule breakers, including the issuing of administrative penalties, but even the suspension of a contractors' licence, or its revocation.

The success of the regulations will depend, completely, on their enforcement. If the enforcement authorities don't have enough resources, if they take it easy on rule breakers, then nothing will change. One does not expect the authorities to suspend or revoke a licence for a minor issue, but for those who constantly or repeatedly breach regulations, who blatantly ignore health and safety obligations, for instance, tough stances must be taken.

Far too often has this country seen deaths tied to construction sites, or homes lost due to neighbouring construction accidents. Now construction is, itself, a dangerous sector. Sadly it is near to impossible to ensure that no workplace accidents will take place. But that is why contractors must take the utmost precautions to ensure that all care is taken to prevent accidents or tragedy both for their employees as well as neighbours. Every precaution must be taken to prevent as many accidents as possible

If a contractor cuts corners, for whatever reason that may be, including if they are receiving pressure from a developer, they must be held accountable.

Regarding resources, the minister said that a recruitment process is ongoing both within the Building and Construction Authority, as well as the Occupational Health and Safety Authority. Ensuring that there are enough enforcement officers not only to respond to complaints made by residents, but to regularly inspect construction sites, is essential.

The construction sector has a bad reputation. The deaths of Jean Paul Sofia and Miriam Pace sent shockwaves throughout the country, and resulted in the introduction of new regulations. One hopes that the country will not see such tragedies again.

It resulted in people living next door to construction sites being more fearful, and who can blame them after two tragedies like that. Neighbours to construction sites have a right to have their minds at ease that they are safe, that is the absolute bare minimum. That is what the laws and regulations that were enacted must, at the very least, lead to. And that is why enforcement is so very important.

There is no room for cowboys.

Contractors and developers should also try and build a rapport with neighbours, and open lines of communication with neighbours to construction sites, helping keep them better informed about what is going on. They should also work to keep the nuisance that is created from construction activity to as minimum as possible in residential areas.