Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I will try to adhere to the time limit in a peaceful manner.

The issue of imposing water charges on schools was mentioned yesterday and again today. However, reference was not made to how the shortfall incurred by local authorities will be made up. Will these authorities be left in the lurch? Will they be obliged to decide on whom they should impose additional charges in order to make up the shortfall? Does the Government plan to increase the level of funding provided to local authorities from the central Exchequer. I strongly agree with Senator O'Toole's remarks on Celtic Anglian Water in Connemara. The point he raised represents another angle to this extremely serious matter. I look forward to the Leader's reply.