Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I hope the Taoiseach will avail of that opportunity. We have had the legislation read to us and we know what the law says. We now need clarification on the Taoiseach's position.

On the consumer protection and competition Bill, the Taoiseach will be aware that the succession of stealth charges introduced by this Government have placed middle and low income families under huge pressure. The introduction of water charges will undoubtedly add to this burden. Reports in this morning's media indicate that owing to the failure of the previous Government to deal with our not fit for purpose water system, we are now faced with a €10 billion repair bill. Does the Government intend including in the consumer protection and competition Bill a provision to allow the amalgamated National Consumer Agency and Competition Authority to play a statutory role in protecting the interests and welfare of hard pressed consumers on whom water charges will be imposed?

The recently enacted Public Services Management (Recruitment and Appointment) (Amendment) Act 2013 provides for the Minister Expenditure and Reform to regulate for sick leave across the public service. There is a requirement for regulations in respect of this matter to be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. I am anxious to know when those regulations will be laid before us.

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