Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The conservation issue is quite broad. In terms of the blunt instrument that it is proposed to use in respect of those not subject to district metering and-or other measures, perhaps the committee needs to delve further into what is conservation and how we, as members of the Oireachtas, promote conservation. There is a body of evidence that shows that conservation and a reduction in water usage occurs where water meters are installed. I am sure the same would apply in respect of district metering. I am not expert in that regard but I am sure somebody here will have a view on it. The conservation method depends somewhat on the acceptable level of usage.

Therefore, achieving the happy medium or median level is very important. I appreciate Professor Collins mentioning that.

We could talk about retrofitting, financial incentives from Irish Water and water audits, as the Department did in previous submissions, but I envisage a very significant change in building regulations, particularly as we ramp up housing delivery. I refer not just to a paltry consideration of our national standards but to really dramatic changes. All new houses have low-flow loos but the flow is not low enough. I know many people who put bricks in their cisterns, which is totally appropriate. We should consider this. I would like the witnesses' view on it.

With regard to the Department's and witnesses' views on that type of change, to building regulations, for instance-----