Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

As Deputy Ellis knows - or perhaps he does not wish to know - there will be a very strong relationship between Irish Water and local government in respect of the knowledge and expertise in the operational delivery of water. There has been engagement with the unions about this and it is the intention of Government to ensure there is more capital investment in water and waster water, bringing further employment and more opportunity for people to be gainfully employed in the provision of water and waste water services. The Deputy will now be able to put people at ease, arising from that statement. There will be a continued and very strong involvement of local government with Irish Water.

See this speech in context