Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I confirm that and state emphatically and unambiguously that this is not part of the Government's or the Minister's agenda. A review of all aspects of local government funding is currently under way and I do not intend to tie the hands of those who are carrying it out. It would not be appropriate for me to engage in speculation on the outcome of the review. There is no point in ordering a review and setting provisions in advance. Such behaviour on my part would only serve to undermine the integrity of the review process.

This matter will arise time and again as we discuss this Bill, the aim of which is to consolidate Acts from as far back as Victorian times. I am sure it will be raised by other Members, but my answer will be the same, that there is no provision for water charges in the Bill and the matter is not on the Government's agenda.