Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am alarmed by Dr. Mahon talking about the vetoing of results. That must be of concern to the committee with respect to this work. The examination could not be carried out by the witnesses, which must again be of concern. We may have to raise that with Irish Water. It would be helpful to have some more facts because when making a case, one must be armed with facts. I presume the witnesses keep a log of dates, entries and requests. This must be of some concern.

Dr. Mahon mentioned independence. Teagasc does soil sampling bores all over the country and it is a very reputable organisation. It has been tied to stringent guidelines by the EU. There may, therefore, be a case there for greater synergies rather than duplication. It is clearly in the body's interest and this can be policed right across the agricultural sector. There may not need to be replication and there could be national impact. Water tables and soils are important for accurate reading.

She can correct me if I am wrong in my interpretation but is Dr. Mahon saying that in certain cases with Irish Water, there has been talk of vetoing results? That must be of concern when it comes to accuracy and uniformity of research. It would be helpful to the committee if the witnesses had further details and was in the position to make them available. We would like to learn more about that.