Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I am grateful to the Senators who outlined their views on this important issue. Senator O'Reilly said that while the theme for the discussion is the rural water services programme, there are a number of other areas in the general water services programme that are of concern. While they do not come under my area of responsibility, I will respond to as many of them as I can.

Senator O'Reilly referred to the €10,000 cap for services. As the Senator outlined it, I had the impression that it was a cap on combined water and sewerage if they arose in the same place. I understand that in general terms it applies to sewerage schemes and it has created some difficulty for local authorities. It is well to remember the background.