Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I understand it, the Minister, Deputy Hogan, was not invited to the meeting but was rather requested to send an official. As the Deputy knows, the Bill was in the Seanad last evening with the Minister, Deputy Hogan, and the Minister of State at the Department, Deputy O'Dowd. The Minister was not asked to attend the meeting but was asked to send an official, which he did.

I have given the figures in respect of the statement issued and I have dealt with the question of the pension liabilities. I have also dealt with the assertion of a loss of €2 billion in assets, as well as the collection of the commercial water charges. The intention all over the country is to provide a modern system of treating water and being able to provide that treated water to citizens. We should be able to provide clean water in the required volumes for business, industry and other uses. Whereas local authorities worked over many years, it is fair to say that standards were applied differently in many areas. I have first-hand knowledge of this. Irish Water, as a major investment and new entity, will have a system right across the country of the very best level of provision and treatment. It is a major undertaking. This is not a question of wanting to rush legislation through.

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