Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The Bill contains provisions on way-leaves. Amendments Nos. 78 and 79 to this section are somewhat different. There is no change to existing way-leaves. We want to ensure that in addition to repair work, renewal of service connections can be carried out. Previous legislation provides for repair of service connections only. However, there is a clear distinction between repair and renewal. While such an issue has never before arisen, a person who raised such an issue would be legally able to prevent the carrying out of renewal of services sited on his or her land. The new provision will overcome such problems. The consultation which took place on the Bill since published and the amendments now tabled will ensure the legislation is better than when first circulated.