Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

I note the Deputy's serious concerns on this issue and that he has made submissions on it. The specific issues of conservation and aviation will be taken into account. The Deputy will be aware that a consultation process is currently under way. There will be further consultation processes in the context of an environmental impact assessment. Obviously whatever site is chosen will require planning permission. A foreshore licence may also be required. Therefore, a series of statutory consultations is to come. I know the Deputy's concern at present is with regard to which of the sites will be chosen. With regard to the first issue the Deputy raised, which was on costs, I understand the overall cost of the treatment plant, the outfall and the orbital sewer is not expected to exceed €500 million. This is the estimated costing I have. This is a major decision to be made and I note the Deputy's concerns. I will convey them to the Minister, Deputy Hogan. As I stated, he has not commented because there are procedures and various stages in the process which have yet to come. I thank the Deputy for raising the issue and for his serious concerns.

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