Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister mentioned Deputy Joan Collins's Bill, which is on Committee Stage. I have discussed this with Deputy Joan Collins and indeed other colleagues from the Opposition side, including Deputy Ó Broin.

I refer to the proposed amendments which the Minister sought to have drafted on, as he mentioned, 11 November last. How many amendments is the Minister looking to make to that Bill? I have heard of 20 or 21 different potential changes to the Bill. I note the Minister mentioned that careful consideration needs to be given to group water schemes. We understand that these matters are not dealt with easily but what I am trying to get a handle on is timeframe. There was an expectation, more importantly, among the public that we would be able to hold a referendum this year in line with the local and European elections. I am certain that there is a desire for the people to retain the ownership of water as a resource in Ireland. Could the Minister give me a timeframe that he is aiming for on this and also the level of engagement he has had with the Attorney General? Does the Minister expect to be going back to the Attorney General's office in advance of bringing forward further amendments? I would like to get a handle on the timeframe.

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