Mr. Brendan O'Brien:

I refer to the perceived constant threat to people's jobs, which is a subject we have touched on here. Deputy O'Dowd has mentioned the intrinsic importance of these jobs to the people who live in rural counties and to their communities. It is perceived that the future of those jobs and communities are under threat. He mentioned County Louth and so on. Our members have asked whether they still will be working in this area in five or ten years' time. The constant threat to their job security is hugely damaging. Our point is that this issue must be resolved and preferably sooner rather than later.

I welcome some of the Deputy's comments about the conscription issue. It was reassuring to hear that he opposes conscription. His comments will go some way to alleviate people's worries but the fundamental question about job security in the water services must be addressed. Our members believe that is best served through the local authorities, as has been outlined.

In terms of engagement down the road, a voluntary redundancy package would be the worst thing that could be put on the table.