Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise two matters. Before I do, I thank Mr. Grant and his team for a comprehensive statement on Irish Water's role during the national emergencies.

I welcome Mr. Grant's acknowledgement of local authorities, as there has been a long bedding down process in terms of synergies and co-operation with them. I am familiar with Mr. Grant. He has visited Dún Laoghaire many times and I am sure he has been all around the country. The transfer of functions that used to rest in local authorities took a long time. From speaking with councillors, they now see a better relationship, which is welcome. A new space was created, in that they were ceding functions to Irish Water, to put it at its mildest, and Irish Water was provided with liaison officers instantly. I encourage Irish Water to have ongoing discussions with local authorities and keep them informed, in particular their elected members. When they are informed and understand what is happening, they are better able to communicate and act as ambassadors for the facility.

I do not disagree with anything Mr. Grant said, but I have been asked to raise a specific issue regarding Galway city, where there is a proposal for an investment programme of approximately €10 million. The city has major problems with its water supply and there is a suggestion of a synergy between Galway City Council and Irish Water. Will Mr. Grant report on that investment and a timeframe for the project's roll-out?