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

Yes, if it has to be increased - in order that there can be increased development or to meet new industrial or other planning issues.

The question of protocols in commercial premises was raised.

Notwithstanding the Senator's views on not allowing disconnections, because under the Bill disconnections will happen, the key point is that there must an understanding and empathetic relationship between Uisce Éireann and the commercial premises so that if the cheque is coming from the sale of the goods and so on that Uisce Éireann will give them fair and reasonable time.

I did not agree with Senator Ó Clochartaigh's analysis but I am glad that he made his points. We both agree that water poverty is a key issue that must be dealt with. There must be fairness, equity and support the families who have low incomes and very high water usage. There is no difference between us in our efforts to resolve those issues. As far as I am aware, there is no issue on the privatisation of water. That is covered by law. I will not be a party nor will the Labour Party stand over the privatisation of the water system. The water system is a total monopoly because in a country of our size, one could not have the provinces in competition with one another to provide water services. That would not work and would be a disaster for critical infrastructure.

Notwithstanding the campaign the Senator's political party may have in this jurisdiction, the fact is that on average the cost in the North per household is £1,200 for the services which his colleagues----