Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with the sentiment behind the amendment. I sat on the Committee of Public Accounts and have worked with the Comptroller and Auditor General on a range of issues. Given the fact that Irish Water will be funded by my Department, there is a role potentially for the Comptroller and Auditor General in respect of the utility's operations. However, the advice I have is that this legislation is not the best place for such a provision and that the Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment) Act 1993 would be the more appropriate place to include it. I will have to take further advice on that and consult with the Comptroller and Auditor General's office to ensure it has the resources to take on this work. It is an excellent office that does good work on behalf of the State but, at this point in time, I cannot accept the amendment.