Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentations. Is there anything in the Bill to ensure the day-to-day running of the plants is not outsourced and is fully managed by Irish Water? Contracting work out is something we have concerns about.

In terms of the rights of existing workers, it is very unfair to expect them to walk away from their terms and conditions. I do not believe that is right. These workers are public service employees. Labour Court hearings are coming up in October. I do not think that is right because these are local authority workers. I hope the local knowledge of the local authority workers has not been forgotten given its value for the provision of water services locally.