Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas Cheann-Comhairle for the opportunity to contribute. I am pleased to hear that the review has started in respect of taking in charge of estates and Irish Water. I welcome the fact that the Minister has started it. A circular was sent out from Irish Water to each county and city manager in the State some months ago. That letter, of which I have a copy, actually vetoes the taking in charge of any estate by a county or city council.

According to the document, if an estate has a pumping station, as many do, then the council should not approach Irish Water about taking the estate in charge. The Minister might highlight this matter to his officials, as it is important that Irish Water's management be told to withdraw that circular.

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