Ms Cathy Mannion:

Just before that, for the complete picture in respect of pressure, in our consultation on the handbook, we included a statement that with regard to pressure, the commission expects Irish Water to be able to fill a tank on the first floor of a house within 12 hours. While the company must revert to us in this regard, that is some sort of standard. As to whether Irish Water can achieve this standard because of the issues raised by Mr. Blaney, again, we will be able to provide a much fuller view on that when we respond to the consultation.

The Deputy mentioned the prioritisation of capital investments and the need to take urban and rural areas into consideration equally. I agree with the Deputy and as I stated previously, it is all about having a transparent process. In particular, when finances are limited, the commission must work closely with the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, and the Department in determining the priority of the investments and the approval thereof. Consequently, I agree with the Deputy.