James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I am pleased the Government is taking full responsibility for this matter under paragraph (a) where there is likely to be a risk to human health. In the past, asbestos piping was used to distribute water along public roads, and the Government is taking full responsibility for the asbestos piping throughout the country. It is important for the Minister of State to carry out an audit of the areas throughout the country where asbestos piping was used. This should be rectified by way of upgrading and updating group schemes and regional schemes. It has been brought to my notice on many occasions that asbestos was used. The Government is taking full responsibility for this in the amendment and it will be held accountable for any health risks that may occur from poor quality or asbestos piping in water mains throughout the country.