Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Let us have a little honesty about this issue. Water is not free. It falls out of the sky free but it is not free by the time it reaches people's taps and is ready to drink. That needs to be acknowledged.

We will oppose the Government amendment and we will oppose the motion if it comes to a vote but I presume it will not because the amendment will win with Fianna Fáil supporting the Government. We do not believe in playing games. Shoving the issue off into the middle distance is not the way to address something about which we need to have an honest debate. I have put our position but I would have much preferred if the scarce time available after a long break was spent on issues on which we can make a difference. No one has said anything that I was unable to predict before I came into the Chamber and I have no doubt those who will contribute after me will say exactly what I expect them to say as well. I do not welcome this debate but I welcome the opportunity to put my party's position.

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