Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Essentially, the regulations are required because Irish Water is a utility no different from other utilities that have been operating in the State for many decades. Deputy Boyd Barrett said the measure is impractical. I presume the case he is making relates to the subcontractors Irish Water uses. The ESB, for example, undertook a national network renewal programme over the past two decades and used many subcontractors but, ultimately, the ESB was accountable. In the same way, Irish Water is accountable for any works subcontractors may carry out. Essentially, what is involved is installing new pipework, fixing burst mains, installing water valves, installing conservation apparatus and whatever is required to enhance or improve the essential water network in this country. We wish to give the same exemptions to Irish Water as we do to other utilities so that it can access the network to carry out the investment and work that is so badly required.

Deputy Boyd Barrett said it is impractical. Does he think a system that allows leakage of 50% of treated water into the ground has worked well? I, for one, do not agree. Already, Irish Water, through the investment and work it is carrying out in terms of water conservation and quality and water treatment systems, has made a huge improvement in a very short time. The facts are on the record.

The regulator has an oversight role of Irish Water and there is an appeals mechanism to the regulator if a complaint has gone through the Irish Water complaints system. I assure Deputy Boyd Barrett that there is nothing cynical behind the measure. It is purely to allow Irish Water to do the work it was established to do, namely, to enhance and improve the water network in this country.