Mr. Thomas Carney:

I respectfully draw the attention of committee members to the broader context of our situation. For over 12 years, this application has remained stagnant on the desks of various civil servants, with limited progress made towards advancing the project. There appears to be a prevailing mindset and organisational culture that may not fully prioritise addressing issues and challenges as promptly as necessary.

This lack of commitment and accountability is noticeable, and it is clear that there is a need for greater empathy and understanding among the staff of Mayo County Council's water department regarding their obligations as civil servants. Furthermore, the current communication dynamics have led to frustration, as requests for updates or information are sometimes met with delays or defensiveness. It is essential that we foster an environment where stakeholders feel valued and heard, even amid challenges.

While the situation we face is concerning, I believe there are constructive steps we can take. The Minister, Deputy O'Brien, as the Minister for housing, has a pivotal role to play in addressing the issue. A thorough audit to identify root causes, coupled with direct collaboration with a private contractor for our water scheme, could potentially streamline the process and promote accountability. In light of recent revelations regarding unused funds earmarked for rural water schemes, it is evident that urgent attention is needed to rectify the inefficiencies present in the Mayo water department.

I thank the committee for its consideration of these suggestions. I trust that by working together, we can find a solution that ensures the efficient delivery of essential services to our community.