Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

It may be but it is not foreign territory. Joining up the Cork county and city supplies is not rocket science.

I understand the frustration experienced by businesses and residents with water supply restrictions, especially in Dublin. In modern Ireland there is no need for hardships in the allocation of water. If, as Senator Cannon pointed out, a policy of rainwater harvesting were in place, we could have avoided much of the restrictions imposed recently, especially considering our high annual precipitation rates. It is important such a policy is examined and put in place across the country. We also have an obligation to future generations to be radical in how we best use natural resources.

I am concerned there is no political will on the part of the Government to develop a coherent strategy of water supply management as a priority. Local authorities are allocated their funding by central government. Many of them will be required to use much of their annual budgets to restore and repair road networks and water pipes affected during the recent weather. Up to €300 million was earmarked for the upgrading of the public water network, much of which will be used to repair burst pipes. Will the Minister explain in more detail how this will happen?

I reiterate that the motion is extremely fair. It calls on the Government to act. I hope the Senators opposite, rather than dividing the House, will agree to the motion as it stands-----