Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the delegates and thank them for the presentation which was very informative. I have a few short questions as most of the issues have been covered. With regard to the level of water shortage, there is 41% leakage. If the leakage level could be reduced by 30% and if 10% is saved domestically when the meters are installed, would the problem be solved? What is the role of the new authority during a flooding event and severe weather conditions? A question was asked earlier about its remit within the freedom of information legislation but I do not recall an answer. I reiterate the importance of a direct line for public representatives.

On the issue of the installation of water meters, I expect it will be much more difficult than anticipated by Bord Gáis Networks given the number of apartments and the amount of old local authority houses which have pipes running down the rear of the houses. Some people have built extensions and dividing walls over them. I have been informed that a whole street is on one line. How will the abolition of local authorities affect Bord Gáis Networks in moving forward?