Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The Bill makes provision for the replacement of trustees. We are all aware, having spent time on local authorities, that many group water schemes were anxious for various councils to take over such schemes. Many councils took over group water schemes which met the required standards. I realise it is difficult to find people willing to do the work and that this, in turn, is somewhat unfair to trustees. However, my experience has been that most trustees are professional and ensure necessary repair works are carried out.

I would encourage individuals to take part in group water schemes which have played an important role in the provision of water as an essential service to many parts of rural Ireland in particular. While an issue arises in the context of who will undertake such responsibility, I believe it is possible to replace trustees. It does not necessarily follow that if one is a trustee one is in a position to carry out repairs. One is in a position to administer a scheme and to make the necessary arrangements for it. Group water schemes have served us well and I encourage people to continue to take part in them.