Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I spoke about water leakage and the cost this imposes on the customer. A staggering 36% of the total usage is leakage, which is a significant problem in terms of the international standards. Surprisingly, it has also highlighted the difficulties of implementing the river basin regional section.

PwC carried out a very good study which outlines the various options. In particular, it is important we consider the various payment options. The ancient Greeks looked at fire, air, earth and water as basic essentials. When regulations are being made, I suggest one would look at free usage for moderate consumption and to then have responsible usage after that. The regulator has been given powers to come back to us on this point.

There is no economic regulation of the water sector in Ireland at present. Currently, water charges for non-domestic use are set by 34 individual local authorities, with the rate charged varying significantly between them. It goes from ¤1.75 per cu. m in Kildare to ¤3.04 per cu. m in Wicklow, so there is no fairness in that people throughout the country pay tax. If people are paying for water, they will conserve it and they will pay for what they use, not for what they abuse. At present, the commercial side is paying varying amounts across the country.

In this context, the Government plans to introduce water charges and water metering. Charging by volume of water used is considered by most to be one of the fairest approaches but this requires the installation of water meters, about which the Minister of State has spoken. I note the advertisement of regional contracts has taken place. When will the advertisements for the local contracts be published?