Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House to facilitate this discussion. It never ceases to amaze me when, after repeated requests on the Order of Business for a Minister to come to the House to debate a particular issue, the Chamber is not filled to capacity. Today is no different, with only two Members in the Chamber for the beginning of the Minister of State's speech and some half dozen as I speak. I apologise to the Minister of State for the poor attendance.

This is a very important discussion. Water is life and without it we cannot exist. While we have an abundance of rainfall in this country - this summer being a notable example - the challenge is in the harvesting and management of our water to ensure a safe, reliable supply for the population. The Minister of State referred to a communications strategy for Irish Water. It is vital that the new body communicates its message effectively in order that every household in the country knows what is involved. I welcome the indication that there will be a strong emphasis on this aspect of its work.

Local authorities throughout the country have significant expertise in the area of water management. As such, I welcome the Department's proposal that they be allowed to enter into agreements with Irish Water by way of which they will act as agents for the authority in the management of services for a considerable period. There has been a concern in local authorities that their expertise in this area would be lost.