Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein)

Can the Minister of State guarantee that such a company, if established, will not lay the groundwork for the eventual privatisation of what were formerly State assets? For example, a new State company to manage the water network is a part of the NewERA programme. During last week's debate, the House agreed that such an authority would be required to tackle the significant wastage of water. However, the clear signal coming from quarters that appear to have sympathy with some of the Minister of State's Cabinet colleagues is that the establishment of such an entity and the introduction of meters would prepare the ground for the company's privatisation. In light of this fear, I would like it if the Minister of State could clarify the matter.

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