IPAV PRESS RELEASE |
12th December 2006 |
Statement by the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) |
on last night’s ‘Prime Time Investigates’ |
| The Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers is a recognised representative body for over 800 auctioneers and estate agents nationwide. |
| Commenting on last night’s ‘Prime Time Investigates’, Chief Executive Fintan McNamara said: “IPAV has always advised members of the public who are selling a property to only use the services of a member of a recognised body such as IPAV or IAVI. Members of these bodies are trained in all aspects of auctioneering and have appropriate experience in the industry. |
| Members of IPAV are bound by a strict Code of Conduct and the Institute has disciplinary procedures in place for dealing with complaints. IPAV’s Disciplinary Committee, for example, includes two outside experts. |
| Under existing legislation the primary duty of care of the auctioneer and estate agent is to the seller and this is something with which members of the public are often not fully aware. Consequently, IPAV strongly advises that would-be purchasers of property should also seek the independent advice of a suitably qualified professional as, for example, happens in the United States.” |
| Mr McNamara said IPAV played an active role in the work of the Review Body on Auctioneering & Estate Agency established by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. An ad hoc Regulator, Tom Lynch, has recently been appointed by the Minister and IPAV is currently awaiting the publication of the promised legislation which will put regulation on a statutory footing. |
| In the meantime, members of the public are encouraged to check IPAV’s website to find the names of suitably qualified professionals in their area.” |
Ends For further information contact: Fintan McNamara on 01-6785685 or Tim Ryan Communications on 087-2471423 |