Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Specifically, on section 3, the Minister of State has said that it is a general, generic phrase that is included in many Bills. Perhaps he would outline what kind of expenses are envisaged even if it is a general clause? What expenses will the Minister incur in the administration of an Act, such as this, how much will they be and what would they be expected to be?

On the broader issue, is it true that the real issue is that the Government had intended to transfer all the workers from the local authority to Uisce Éireann but SIPTU put its foot down because it was not happy. Perhaps the Minister of State would outline the position at some stage when going through our discussions. My understanding is the unions were not happy with the Government's plans, they have issues and are concerned that privatisation could happen down the road, due to an understanding here.

The Minister mentioned retirements and staff being replaced. In Uisce Éireann there are concerns that this will not happen and that one will really see a reduction in the workforce dealing with water services as time passes. Will the Minister of State touch on this issue?