Áine Collins (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The introduction of domestic water charges is a significant change for Ireland. For many years, because of our rainfall, there was a general perception that water was so plentiful that the necessity for conservation of water was a step too far. As a result, the general population became used to having free water. Every other country has long recognised the need for conversation, as well as the need to provide capital to upgrade the basic water infrastructure. Because of this situation, successive Governments have underfunded the water services. The national pipe network is old and poorly maintained. This results in a great deal of costly treated water being wasted.

As a nation, we should have long since recognised the importance of ensuring a clean, reliable supply of quality water, not only for domestic customers but for agricultural and industrial needs too. From an agricultural point of view, good quality water is necessary to maintain our reputation as an environmentally green nation that maintains the highest standards. A clean supply of water is also most important in attracting industries, such as the pharmaceutical industry. The cost of water to industry must be constantly reviewed as many jobs are at stake if these industries cannot maintain competitiveness.

Up to now, only farmers and industries paid for water. Consequently, there was insufficient funding available to upgrade the infrastructure. Treating water to an acceptable standard is a most expensive job and we can no longer afford to allow millions of gallons to be wasted through leaking pipes all over the country.

The introduction of domestic water charges is a difficult political choice, but conservation is now a necessity. Water quality must be improved and money must be found for this work. It has been established worldwide that charging for water is by far the most effective way of conserving it.

As the economic crisis developed and we were forced into a bailout, one of the conditions of the bailout was that we would have to introduce water charges. This is not only as a revenue raising exercise. It will, more importantly, provide funding to ensure that the water delivered to households and industry is of the highest quality.

Having said that, I realise that many households are under severe financial difficulty and any new charge will be a significant burden. Charging based on usage is the fairest way of dealing with this burden and that is to be eventually the end game.

The Minister has asked various bodies to come up with an interim solution, and I am confident that will result in a recognition that at least a minimum amount of water will be made available to the households experiencing the most financial difficulty.

The ability to provide high-quality water is essential for our households, our industries and our people. I commend the Bill to the House.

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