James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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I know, and I appreciate Mr. McDonagh’s point on governance. Governance is important and a key part of any organisation. Those affected are looking at the €5 million jump in staffing costs over a 12-month period and a significant jump in the liabilities that have to be paid out. In fairness, accidents happen and claims are made. Unfortunately, we know there is a cultural issue with claims in Ireland alongside genuine claims being made. However, this is an excessive increase in costs over a limited time. If what Mr. McDonagh is saying is correct, it points to a policy failure, in that Waterways Ireland did not make adjustments previously and is now panicking to try to get it done over a six-year period, increasing the fee to €4,000 and on up to €7,500. That is my interpretation of the issue.

I do not want to spend any more time on the matter because other members will address it as well. Was Waterways Ireland contacted by officials in the Department of integration about the necessity to erect fencing on the Grand Canal Dock or was it Waterways Ireland’s decision to contact the Department or officials from IPAS about the matter?