Up to 2010 in Ireland the title of architect was not protected and anybody could call him or herself an architect. The qualified architects were outnumbered 10:1 by unqualified persons who have only a passing knowledge of architecture. These could be people, such as Engineers, all kinds of technicians and even worse people with no qualifications at all. This is now all in the past and we advice you to visit the RIAI website for listing of qualified architects   All qualified architects are registered with the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland. The Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland founded in 1839, is the representative body for professional qualified architects in Ireland. The RIAI qualifications and membership are accepted by government, the courts and the EU as the required standard. The highest standard of professional competence is maintained by means of examination prior to entry. The affix MRIAI is recognised under Article 11 (F) of the EC directive (85/383/EEC) on the mutual recognition of diploma, certificate and other evidence of formal qualifications in architecture. In Europe the RIAI represents the profession through its membership of the Architects Council of Europe. Worldwide the RIAI represents the profession through membership of the International Union of Architects. The objectives of the RIAI are the advancement of Architecture and the associated Arts and Sciences, the promotion of high standards of professional conduct and practice and the protection of the interest of architectural training and education.