James Bannon (Fine Gael)

Will the Leader invite the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to the House to debate the Government's lack of funding for waste water treatment facilities throughout the country? The European Commission is taking Ireland to the European Court of Justice on this issue. It is a significant embarrassment for the Government.

The Leader, who will contest the next general election in the Longford-Westmeath constituency, knows that sewerage schemes in the constituency have been waiting for approval for the past four years. It proves this Government has promised much but delivered little. The health and safety of the people are at risk due to the Government's handling of sewage treatment plants. There are serious problems in many towns and villages. We must have proper standards to protect people's health. I hope this will be achieved. The latest move by the European Commission is a clear indication to the Government that it is not doing its job in this area. My colleagues have congratulated the Leader on her announcement this week but if I am nominated by my party, I am prepared to meet her head on on those issues.