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

I agree with Deputy Cowen that a huge level of investment is required throughout the country. Approximately 80 water and wastewater plants are in need of urgent remediation because they are subject to potential European Commission infringement proceedings. Approximately 1 million householders are at risk because water quality is not up to scratch, and there are people on boil water notices. We are establishing a commercial semi-State body to allow us borrow money on the markets to double the amount of investment required and spend €10 billion over the next 12 years making sure that we put matters right. We are trying to make up for the under-investment in the good times.

The regulator will have adequate time for public consultation. He has already started the public consultation process regarding the tariff design and structure and when the Government makes the decision shortly on its submission on the free allowance affordability measures, and all the other issues we are required to do under the legislation, that will be put out to public consultation.

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