Mr. John Tierney:

The issues raised by Senator Barrett are more of a commentary on the parliamentary process than the role of the company. The publication of the explanatory memorandum on the Act is not the responsibility of Irish Water, as the Senator is aware, because that has to be done by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. Normally, an initial explanatory memorandum is published by the Department, followed by a version after the legislation is passed. The legislation has been passed for only two and half weeks at this stage.

On the issue of the current payment for the system, there was a contribution from overall taxes because subvention comes from the Government to the sector at present. There were charges previously and they were stopped. They are now being reintroduced. That is Government policy and we are implementing it on the basis of a utility piece that will be about creating efficiency in the system so the money raised in regard to charges is spent as efficiently as possible. With regard to why the Commission for Energy Regulation was chosen, it was a matter of Government decision and policy.

The question asked on consultancies was answered earlier in the afternoon. Mr. Barry can provide information again on the procurement process.

In terms of Government policy on investment plans, we would submit our investment plans to the Minister in accordance with the legislation.