James Bannon (Fine Gael)

A recent report indicated that Ireland has the highest level of ground water pollution in the EU. The health and safety of thousands of people are at risk because of the serious problems in many towns and villages throughout Ireland. The Government has failed to invest an adequate level of funding in group water and sewerage schemes. There is a long waiting list for the funds needed to put in place this important infrastructure in small towns and villages. I know of at least seven communities in County Longford, which has one of the smallest populations of any county, which are waiting for water and sewerage systems to be provided. I am sure the position is the same in County Westmeath and many other counties. It is important that the House should debate the need for this important infrastructure throughout the country. The recent action taken by the European Union demonstrates that the Government has been negligent in this area.