Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will deal with the last point first. Work is being done on the algae problem. I assure the Deputies that I will ask the local authorities and the officials in my Department to give this matter the sense of urgency it deserves, in line with the information they have given to the House. I acknowledge the difficulties that people and consumers are experiencing. It is unacceptable in this modern age that we have such difficulties. It demonstrates the fragility of our natural resources and the importance of water. It is unacceptable in this modern day that so many people waste so much water. It is a finite resource, as demonstrated by the problems we are having in counties Wicklow and Dublin. I will speak to the officials at the end of this debate to ensure there is a sense of urgency in this regard and these problems will be remedied on a temporary and a permanent basis as soon as possible.

See this speech in context