Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for giving me an opportunity to speak on this Private Members' motion on water charges. I wish to clearly outline my position on this issue, set the record straight and deal with the misrepresentation of my position. This debate is about suspending water charges or getting rid of them. Until the independent commission sits, makes up its own mind and goes to the Oireachtas committee with its final recommendations, and a final vote is taken in the Dáil, I support that process. That is the vote that counts, and my colleagues should judge me when that vote happens.

The manner in which Irish Water was set up, and its approach, remain personally unacceptable to me. I am still deeply sceptical about the motives and ability of the service to deliver. There are also affordability issues, and I certainly feel there was a lack of insight as regards people's everyday financial struggles. There are many examples of this, including the fact that families were left to their own devices with regard to replacing lead pipes in their homes, and the failure to take into account the significant additional requirements of many people with special needs.

However, I recognise that the recent negotiations on government formation, in which I was involved, have resulted in the establishment of a mechanism to review the provision of water and its infrastructure. It will be crucial for the review to take into account the position of people who have paid their charges, as they should not be disadvantaged. After that important process, I will finally make an informed decision. Over the course of my career I have fought for many issues, but none more so than those facing our country today. They include homelessness, health, care of the elderly, cystic fibrosis, education, small businesses, the rights of and services for people with disabilities, as well as many other issues. I now find myself in a position in which I have an opportunity to oversee real development and policies in our areas of need. I have a responsibility to try my best to deliver for people who are relying on me in these areas. I know that priorities must be set and I do not believe that not paying the water charge at this stage will greatly alter the situation for Irish Water. The debate has moved on and will be a matter for Dáil Éireann in due course. It is clear to me that not paying the charge would become a significant distraction to other important work. I am determined not to allow this to happen.

Like many people here, I do not like the set-up of Irish Water and neither do I like the system of charges. I was very much opposed to that. However, I think the first part of the battle has been won. We now know that charges will be suspended and the whole system will be reviewed. It will be a matter for a Dáil vote as to whether or not charges are imposed. I strongly support the principle of the main motion in dealing with the public ownership of water.

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