Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This Bill enables us to establish Uisce Éireann and it is not envisaged this will be in the full Bill when it is set up. It is to ensure that the board is required to comply with such policies of the Government as are specified in the direction. It is a prudent measure inserted at this stage to ensure Government policy is adhered to as we progress and the company is set up. The requirement to consult with the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is purely because Bord Gáis is technically his responsibility. That is purely temporary and to ensure the policies are what we want them to be at this stage. It is not intended the Minister will direct the company in the later phases after the next Bill.