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Forward
The Electrical Workers Registration Board has pleasure in presenting its fourth Annual Report.
Some changes in direction have taken place with the input of new Board members. The Board records its thanks and appreciation to Ross Talbot for his good service in establishing the foundation for various aspects of its work. Ross continues to serve on the audit sub-committee. Anthony DellaBarca was welcomed and he has made a valuable contribution in many areas including training guidelines.
The Board is industry focused and responsive to its clients - the workers in the electrical industry. The appointment of Board members has come under scrutiny again. It is important that such appointments (by the Minister) for registered members reflect the different industry sectors and that members are knowledgeable of the Electricity Act and Regulations. When dealing with disciplinary matters it is also essential that members have technical expertise and a high level of understanding of the electrical industry. A balance of skills is essential for effective and efficient business operations. Registration fees, Practising Licence fees, Certificates of Compliance, and examination entry fees are now the main stream of revenue for the Board to fund its activities.
This is the year that the Board has been charged with a review of specific sections of the Electricity Act. Submissions have been received from individuals and industry sector groups and these are being analysed. A discussion paper on recommendations is being prepared for the coming year. We are grateful to those who have made suggestions.
Communication has improved with opportunities for the public to attend the Board meetings, now held throughout the country. Several people have taken this up. It provides a forum for discussion as well as an understanding of the extent of Board deliberations. Disciplinary hearings are also held where possible near the home town of the worker. There have been some problems with the 0800 number but these are gradually being solved and the number is now listed in all local telephone books.
The Ministry is providing services to the Board and these are subject to a performance review. The aim is to become more customer focused and create greater efficiencies. The Board records its appreciation to the Ministry staff who perform duties under the Memorandum of Understanding.
Whilst the Board has lobbied the Ministry of Commerce supporting legislation changes that will reduce certificate of compliance fees, extend the practising licence renewal date to July (bringing it into line with the financial year), and amend the limits of work for tradespersons, amendments in these areas have not yet been achieved.
The audit scheme is being reviewed in consultation with sector groups within the industry as well as with the Board contracted auditors to seek improvements and enable non-compliant work to be audited.
The surplus funding collected from third parties is secured in a memorandum account and will be spent as required. Unfortunately the electricity levy is no longer available to the board for the coming year for general public good promotion.
The Board thanks the Registrar John Sickels for his considerable efforts this past year, Olinka Ching and Janine Anderson who have carried out secretarial functions for the Board, and those in the industry who have assisted on sub-committees. It is through team work and cooperation that the Board can function effectively, working for the electrical industry and facing the challenges of the year ahead.
Elizabeth Hanan
Presiding Member
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