Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

A training programme will be put in place by the EPA and local authorities to train people who will conduct inspections. One does not send out people who do not know what they are doing. I am sure we do not do that under any legislation. The Senator should respect the fact that, under regulations, we are in a position to develop the necessary training and expertise to do the job, otherwise we will be in contempt of our legislation. I do not think any state would try to do that.

In regard to the offences under the legislation, the principal 2007 Act refers to a fine of €15 million and five years in prison for not complying with proper standards on the contamination of water. That is very draconian. We will amend the Act on the assessment of groundwater in the context of septic tanks to €5,000 with term of imprisonment. I rest my case.