Seanad debates

Monday, 28 November 2011

Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011: Report and Final Stages

 

6:00 pm

Photo of Paschal MooneyPaschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

The Minister went a long way to explain his position on this issue on Committee Stage. He pointed out that changes to a household could necessitate changes to its septic tank, for example, extra chambers, an additional percolation area or an increase in the percolation area. I understood this to be the thrust of the Minister's argument. If changes are made to the system subsequent to registration or an inspection - being in compliance is not the issue - and the householder decides to embark on the changes that the Minister claimed would necessitate a five-year rule if they are to be recognised, will the householder be liable to seek planning permission for any change to his or her residence? That is the question. If they require planning permission for any changes that necessitate changes to the septic tank, will the information be registered by the local authority? That would require re-registration. The argument was that this was to take account of adjustments made in that period. The amendment refers to 40 years but, in light of the discussion on this point and the Minister's acknowledgement that it is an issue, I ask the Minister to give us his views on whether five years is too short.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.