Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Leas-Cheann Comhairle is pointing out the section we are dealing with but I have no problem answering the question. Uisce Éireann will be accountable to the Oireachtas through the annual report, just like Irish Rail and other semi-State companies such as Bord Gáis and Bord na Móna. That report is laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas, so there is no question of the Deputy or anybody else not being able to come in here and ask questions of Irish Water about any issue. The annual report will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and will be a matter for discussion. There is no issue of the Deputy not being able to ask questions, write to this body or otherwise communicate with it. Representatives can be brought before committees. I do not see a problem in this respect. As Irish Water has a development there must be consultation with other bodies. There is no question in my mind about the body being accountable and having an acceptable plan.

At the other end of the argument one might assume there is a problem that is not being dealt with by the Government, a Minister or the Oireachtas. In the legislation there is power for the Minister to direct on matters of Government policy, although he or she cannot interfere in certain other matters. That directive would only come in exceptional and unusual circumstances.

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