Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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I thank the witnesses from Irish Water and the CER for their attendance. Mr. McGowan mentioned earlier that the Minister could issue instructions to the CER in respect of Irish Water. Would that be usual in terms of ministerial responsibilities? My second question pertains to the European Union's water framework directive and Ireland's responsibilities regarding the quality of its water and its effluent management. What is the current position in respect of Ireland's water standards? Could Ireland potentially be subjected to European Union fines and, if so, how much might we be fined if we do not get our act together?

I have a further question on the procurement rules for those who tender for contracts to do some work for Irish Water, such as the water maintenance and support work that would have been carried out on behalf of the local authorities in the past. Media reports in my constituency have stated that a company that was supplying this type of work to Offaly County Council did not obtain a contract. What is the position with regard to procurement? Clearly, one does not seek job losses as a result of changes that are being made.

On personal water consumption and people's individual responsibilities to reduce the amount of water they are using, I note that Ireland's consumption rate, at 150 litres per day, is among the highest, if not the highest, in Europe. While metering obviously will make a difference in this regard, what are Irish Water's plans regarding public information, working with schools and so on? Are any such activities in train? This will be of great importance in the future.

I will not raise the Garryhinch project as Senator Landy has covered it fairly comprehensively, but I was curious as to whether Irish Water foresees a future for itself in the field of rainwater harvesting. Given all this rain falling out of the heavens, there is potential for Ireland as a nation to use it and to give it to other countries that might need it. Could such activities potentially come within the remit of Irish Water in the future?