FEATURE
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We asked the NRCS if this was acceptable in a BCO / Inspectors position , here is the response : “ The function of the BCO is to advise the Council of the local authority regarding any plans , specifications , documents and information submitted to such local authority in terms of building applications .
NRCS cannot see that the BCO has authority : to advise anybody to engage by means of litigation or otherwise as the ACT is quite clear in section 6 which prescribes the function of the BCO .”
Further chatter claimed that the NRCS was on the Board of the PIRB . We queried this and herewith the reply :
“ The NRCS is not part of the PIRB and does not sit on the Board nor has the NRCS any representation at the PIRB Board .”
But , oh boy , did these irresponsible statements gain some traction – no results though !
[ Editor ’ s comment : The how and the where is important . Once something has appeared it remains . Whether stated electronically or in print or any other means of communication , it sticks and invites comments and opinions – which is fine , since everyone is entitled to an opinion . The problem is when it is about the initial miscommunication this spreads like – well , a virus !]
The SA Qualifications Authority ( SAQA ) is the overseeing body of the National Qualifications Framework Act of 2008 and the custodian of its values and quality character . They have a set of objectives one of which is , “ Recognise professional bodies and register professional designations .”
This applies to statutory and non-statutory bodies . Statutory is through an Act of Parliament such as for architects , doctors , engineers , whereas non-statutory bodies are a voluntary body – no one can be forced to join , but it is recognised , by law , as a body of competent persons / organisations that operate in the interest of a sector / industry as per NQF 2008 .
To state , as has happened on several occasions , that PIRB is illegal is incorrect and untrue . Such a statement has a ripple effect especially to those just joining the industry and youngsters in the industry .
Does this make PIRB and any volunteer group perfect ? Of course not , and none of these bodies claim to be perfect . But how to handle the situation is where the wheels can potentially fall off .
It behoves each and every one of us to sit down and discuss , debate , and listen in a mature and professional manner . Offers to do this have been made and not even declined , just ignored . This publication has offered the same and met with those concerned plumbers . A document was drawn up a presented in a form that would make a meeting constructive – again no response , no feedback , nada !
How then does this justify the criticism , the mis-information and the attacks on a body formed for the good of the industry ? Sure , aspects can be challenged , but in the correct way and when the correct way is suggested with no response , none of the attacks can be justified .
There are always two sides of the story and the how is essential . Sit and talk guys , and use media ( especially social media ) for the right reasons ! PA
“ To state , as has happened on several occasions , that PIRB is illegal is incorrect and untrue . ”
March 2021 Volume 27 I Number 1 www . plumbingafrica . co . za