James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When the previous Government proposed doing it, Sinn Féin did not bring forward any legislation because it was not on the front page of the national newspapers. Here, we have an opportunity for a little media attention, which is why Sinn Féin has jumped on it, even though it is the clear intention of this Government not to do so. The Government has no legal power to bring in water charges without additional legislation.

It is extremely frustrating that we are dealing here with a distortion of the truth and a misdirection from Sinn Féin. It is in line with what has been going on in recent weeks. While I have no doubt that Sinn Féin is not going to resile from its position, people at home are looking at the Dáil, in the context of the threats to this State, and seeing this kind of nonsense proliferated by the other side of the House for distraction and misdirection. That is really disappointing and unfortunate.

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