Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes. Clearly, we are talking about the public water system. We are not talking about group water schemes, boreholes or private water systems, which are constituted differently. If the Government perceives a problem in its own situation in respect of the public-private aspect, the Department should tell members where the problems arise and explain them. The Department has not clarified why it has raised the clause of unintended consequences. Its explanation should form part of the next debate on this matter. If a question has arisen then the Department should identify the problems. They have not done so because I do not believe problems exist. The proposed 35th amendment of the Constitution simply ensures the resource remains in public ownership and that the Government is responsible for its maintenance and management. Therefore, it is important that the amendment is passed.

Water is a huge concern globally, particularly in terms of the role played by big private companies. Water is the new oil and will be a scarce resource in the future. It is important that the people of Ireland have an opportunity to vote in a referendum to keep their water resources in public ownership. Many people throughout the world will appreciate the State taking such an action. I call on the committee to take this matter on board.