Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

On one level, it is touching to see such solidarity between the two Ministers, all things considered. It is tragic that this solidarity and joint sense of purpose only emerges when they are intent on frustrating the repeated and democratically mandated demands of the people of this State.

Water charges are over. We have known this since we met here first as a Dáil. The individual views of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil Party members on any given issue is a matter for themselves, except in circumstances where the people, the electorate, the citizens have made their views abundantly clear on a particular matter. Not alone that, in these circumstances we had the committee that was insisted upon by the Government. The committee has deliberated and has considered in some detail the framework directive which was referred to. That directive is all about preservation of water and environmental standards. That is the test for whether or not we comply. It makes no direct reference or insistence on charges for excessive use, for example. The commitment made was absolutely clear. The Government refused to listen directly to the voices of the people, but did say very clearly that whatever the individual positions taken, it would legislate in accordance with the outcome of that committee.

The Leas Ceann-Comhairle broke a rule so he can allow me to bend one slightly.

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