Barry Cowen (Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I support this proposal, which is something I have raised with the Minister in the past. I had hoped he would bring forward his own proposal in this regard but, in the absence of such an amendment, what is proposed here is suitable. It allows almost for the full application of the confidence and supply arrangement in respect of Irish Water. The latter is without question a public utility and what is proposed here creates a far less grey area than would be the case prior to a referendum on the issue. I hope the Minister will respond positively to this proposal.