Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I am sure Deputy Michael Healy-Rae who was a councillor at the time was informed about this matter by his father, former Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae, who supported the legislation. Under the 2007 Act, the penalties are €15 million in fines and five years in prison if one does not comply with the standards relating to water quality. That is the record of the previous Government. I will not be including any such regime under the Bill before the House. People will be obliged to pay up to €5,000 in fines, but they will not be imprisoned.

The revenue from the registration charge which I have repeatedly stated will be once-off in nature will be paid directly to local authorities and used to finance the operation of the legislation. Deputy Mick Wallace can read into that what he will.

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