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

I would like to give my one-minute reply. I have heard everything that has been said here. It is very important that we on this side of the House reflect on what Deputy Naughten has said on those issues. I see him smiling.

Through this legislation, the Minister has and will have the power to direct both the CER and Irish Water, if appropriate, to use this power and, where supplies are subject to restrictions, to ensure that customers are properly protected and compensated where necessary. Also, there will be further legislation in the House next year in this regard. Most importantly, there will be no domestic charges imposed until January 2015.

Notwithstanding all the concerns, which I acknowledge, we will have time to address a number of the issues and to clarify other outstanding issues in the legislation that is to come. The issues can be discussed before Oireachtas committees with both the Minister and myself and with representatives from Irish Water and the Regulator.

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