Aidan Farrelly (Kildare North, Social Democrats)

I understand that. Having been a member of a local authority for six years, I clearly see that it is progressing but it would be remiss of me not to emphasise the frustration felt by huge pockets of the community about who they can hold to account, question or get information from. If you ask the council, the query is often put forward to Uisce Éireann. It is a difficult situation. Hopefully, when that is completed in 2026, that will come to an end and there will be increased communication between communities and the utility.

What is the nature of the relationship between Uisce Éireann and the big five? What is the nature of its work with external consultants? What is the level of engagement on design? What roles of third-party consultants did Uisce Éireann avail of in, say, 2024?