Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)

I do not think anyone, especially those who own septic tanks, wants to poison the ground water because it is in their interests to ensure the ground water where they live is of good quality. I agree with the Minister on the devolving of power to the local authorities. The devolution of power also includes quantifying the resources of local authorities. Has the Minister consulted the local authorities? What additional resources will be required? I deal primarily with Kildare County Council. I know the council cannot carry out work that is within its remit because it does not have the resources. Will inspections continue until a satisfactory result is obtained in cases where septic tanks fail a test and require to be upgraded? What will be the regime and the obligation on local authorities?

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