Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I was glad to have the opportunity to propose this motion. While the Opposition will not have the numbers to pass it, one must realise the debate has highlighted many of the inadequacies of the Government and its response to the crisis we recently witnessed. There is a lack of joined-up thinking at the highest level of the Government, as highlighted clearly by Senator Cannon's point. The new policy of developing the green economy, which is endorsed by the Government, states clearly a single national water authority should be introduced with overall responsibility for system planning, delivery and maintenance. The press release for the policy, signed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Coughlan, and the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, states the Government will ensure the report is acted upon swiftly. In spite of this, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government ridiculed the Fine Gael policy, which is in many ways similar to that in the report. It refers to having a national water management authority. The divergence of views highlights clearly the lack of clarity, policy and joined-up thinking in the Government's response to the management of our national and natural resources.

This evening the Joint Committee on the Environment, Heritage and Local Government spoke about waste policy. There has been a national policy in place for over ten years, yet the present Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is opposing it. This is causing much confusion and there are mixed messages being circulated, thus making us wonder why local authorities and various agencies are struggling to cope and respond when a crisis occurs. We must have leadership from the top. Unfortunately, it was sadly lacking during the recent adverse weather. Some of the Ministers were missing also. This is a very sad indictment of the Government and indicates a total lack of leadership.

This motion is to highlight the aforementioned inadequacies and to try to find ways to achieve a co-ordinated response that would really assist those who are struggling as a consequence of inadequate roads and water supplies, which are essential to the day-to-day running of our country, including business. I commend the motion to the House.