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

I am speaking about the reply of the Minister to a suggestion I made to him. He said there would be no financial hardship, but he will not tell us what the position is. He has made reference to a blank cheque. What does he mean by this? He has stated he will put in place a grant process to help those who have to carry out remedial treatment works to their septic tank, but that is not the same as providing a blank cheque. It is a commitment that people will not be out of pocket through no fault of their own as a result of the introduction of the new standards and regulations that he will bring forward. That is all I am asking, but he will not answer the question.

It is so frustrating sitting here. People call it gobbledygook or bullshit. Please, excuse my language.

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