Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I note much of what has been said about the ongoing process of investigation and reporting being carried out by Irish Water in addition to the information already in the local authority domain. The Minister has mentioned specifically that Irish Water suggests that the problem relating to lead piping and back-yard systems affects 5% of houses, a substantial number which will require much investment. I refer to the commitment given by the Government before the CER was charged with responsibility in the current ongoing consultation process. I expect the process will ultimately recommend that the Government take cognisance of the fact that where water is undrinkable - in Boyle, among other locations - homeowners should not be asked to pay exorbitant charges.

The Minister says the first-fix scheme is primarily a water conservation measure, but it will also deal with some of the lead connection pipes on private property. Can the Minister expand on that point and be more specific? The point on which I sought clarity relates specifically to the first fix policy to which the Government committed. I expect the commitment is broad in the sense that where householders are informed of the deficiency and it is confirmed by the HSE that there is a contamination issue, rectification is necessary and works must be carried out. It is important that the works are carried out as soon as possible, but the costs associated with it are something we believed the Government would contribute to. For the Minister to say that the Government will address some of the lead connection pipes on private property is commendable in the first instance, but it must go much further than this. I ask the Minister to expand on the point and give assurance and commitment to those affected in such a way that the first fix policy the Government committed to will include people in the unfortunate situation whereby they are informed by the Irish Water or the HSE of a problem that must rectified.

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