Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

There is little point in giving with one hand and taking with the other. I will always acknowledge any effort to assist families in financial distress and will read carefully the Government's proposals which I acknowledge. However, I put it to the Tánaiste that it is deeply unfair of the Government to put through this legislation without being absolutely clear on what standards will be applied. Will there be a grants scheme? Will there be assistance for families where in order to protect the water table and the quality of water they must upgrade their system? The least those living in rural Ireland should expect from the Government is help and assistance in this matter.

See this speech in context