Building industry chief quits

By ALAN PERROTT

Bill Porteous, chief executive of the Building Industry Association and a central figure in the leaky building controversy, has resigned, citing the pressures of unfounded criticism.

While under Dr Porteous' leadership, the Building Industry Association was accused of being slow to recognise the leaking building problem and then not properly communicating its concerns to the Government.

The resignation was announced last night and was effective immediately.

BIA chairman Barry Brown said his former chief executive would be retained within the organisation as chief policy adviser.

Richard Martin, a qualified structural engineer who is leading a team following up on recommendations of the Hunn Report into the leaky building problem, has been appointed acting chief executive.

In a written statement made public last night, Dr Porteous said he had endured considerable criticism since the release of the Hunn Report six months ago.

"I believe that much of that criticism has been unfounded," he said.

"Nevertheless, I find myself in a position where I believe that for the good of the organisation it is appropriate that I stand down from my current position."

Dr Porteous last year came under stinging criticism from politicians, with National MP Wayne Mapp pointing to incompetent leadership and National leader Bill English calling for his sacking.

His actions came under further scrutiny when he appeared before a select committee hearing last November. At that time, Minister of Internal Affairs George Hawkins said neither he nor the public had been well-served by the Building Industry Association.

But Dr Porteous countered calls for his resignation, saying the real issue was leaky buildings and the distress that caused home owners.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael Cullen supported Dr Porteous' stand and ruled out "any corpses", saying it was time to concentrate on fixing a problem which would cost "tens of millions" of dollars.

Dr Porteous said his resignation came after some soul-searching.

He said his decision would assist the BIA to follow up on the recommendations of the Hunn Report.

"I would like to stress my full support for the staff of the BIA," he said.

"They are committed and capable individuals and it has been my honour to work with them over the last five years."

The story so far

* Dr Bill Porteous appointed chief executive of the Building Industry Authority in March 1998.

* April 2002: The Herald reveals the extent of leaky building crisis - thousands of rotting homes costing millions of dollars to repair.

* September 2002: Dr Porteous criticised after report by former State Service Commissioner Don Hunn confirms breakdown in building industry.

* Government does not sack Dr Porteous, but he is effectively sidelined.

* Weathertight Homes Resolution Service set up. It is dealing with more than 550 applications involving about 1155 dwellings.

* If you have information about leaking buildings,
email the Herald or fax (09) 373-6421.