The Monopolies Commission has spoken out against the proposed extension of the requirement to hold a master craftsman’s certificate. Market developments since the partial liberalisation of the skilled trades sector do not provide any convincing arguments in favour of such a restriction on entry to the profession. The option to obtain the master craftsman’s certificate on a voluntary basis remains unaffected by this.
At a glance
From a competition policy perspective, extending the requirement to hold a master craftsman’s certificate should be rejected, as it creates additional barriers to market and professional access.
- Ensuring quality and strengthening training in the skilled trades do not require a compulsory master craftsman’s qualification
- Economic considerations give rise to constitutional concerns regarding interference with the freedom to choose a profession
