Michael Brennan (Progressive Democrats)

I thank Senator Finucane for sharing time with me. I support the case he has made and acknowledge the vast amount of Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government funding to Limerick County Council for its 2000-06 water and sewerage schemes programme.

The N69 from Foynes to Limerick city could be served by the proposed scheme. As Senator Finucane said, up to €5 million has been allocated by the Department for the upgrading of the Shannon Estuary supply scheme at Aughinish. That scheme is very important for the supply of water to our towns and villages, and to industry. In many towns and villages, from Kildimo and Pallaskenry to Ballybrown, Clarina and Mungret, builders are being asked to provide an alternative scheme from Limerick city towards that area. I understand the importance to the Department of having a full scheme from Foynes to Limerick and from Clareville back to the west and south of the county. I congratulate the Department on making funds available but it is important that these schemes come to fruition and that services are brought to the people in the group water schemes Senator Finucane mentioned those who have an unsafe supply in many instances.

We also recognise the problem in Kildimo-Pallaskenry where people have a choice of supply but for the greater good the supply coming along the Shannon Estuary to Clarina and Mungret should proceed in the interests of the investment made to date in meeting the development needs of our towns and villages. That is important for the future of schools and facilities in our parishes.