CIC expresses disappointment at minister appointment

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is the latest voice to speak out in disagreement at the government's recent ministerial reshuffles.

Speaking at the Constructing Excellence lunch at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, CIC chairman Turlogh O'Brien said the appointment of under secretary Nigel Griffiths as construction minister at the Department of Trade & Industry was a let-down for the industry.

"It is extremely disappointing that construction has been tucked behind small business in the overall government portfolio," he said.

"Although we will look forward to working with Nigel Griffiths as the new minister responsible for construction, it cannot be the right message from government that an industry, which is so vital to the overall economic life of the country, is regarded as just one part of a multifarious portfolio of a parliamentary under secretary of state."

He added: "For its own sake, in achieving the delivery of its major programmes in health, education, transport and sustainable communities, the government must get back to having construction within the portfolio of a full minister of state, supported by a junior minister as part of a robust team."