Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy can be fully assured definitively that local authorities will not be at a loss as part of this process. While there were no discussions within the timeframe with the LGMA or CCMA, discussions are ongoing on a continuous basis on all these issues anyway. There will be no effect on local authorities. The €59 million figure is believed to be the cost and it was arrived at through the analysis done with the Department and its discussions, which are ongoing as is always the case. I assure the Deputy that no local authority will be at a loss through this process. This is a pass-through cost and whatever pass-through amount per local authority is necessary will be the one that is given through. It will be supplemented and this mechanism is one we chose to put forward as part of the changes we brought through on water in the last couple of weeks. There is no intention in any way, shape or form to bring about any negative effect for local authorities. In relation to the breakdown of the €59 million, I will by all means share the figures with the Deputy when I have them to hand.

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