Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Like Senator Darragh O'Brien, I ask that the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government come to the House to have a discussion on Irish Water and its establishment, to get information on it and the costs associated which are the subject of committee hearings. It is appropriate that we would wait until those committee hearings have finished so that we have the full information. We should not gloss over the fact the State is spending €1.2 billion in providing water services at present and if we are to move from a system involving 34 local authorities to one entity dealing with water supplies and wastewater, then we need to know where we are going. I would support the view that we would look at it and prepare reports as to where we stand and what investments are needed.

All Members are aware there has been under-investment for many years and I would hate the current controversy or debate surrounding the establishment of Irish Water to lead to any negativity. Bord Gáis Éireann has an excellent reputation and experience in dealing with a network that involves customers on an individual basis, which is where its expertise lies. It has a strong track record in that regard and we must get this right because €1.2 billion per year is not to be sneezed at. It is a lot of money. Moreover, it is estimated that by using the existing experience of Bord Gáis, €90 million is being saved through efficiencies in any event. While I welcome the discussion, I would not condemn it as I believe there are some necessary start-up costs. Moreover, Members will get to the background information and a debate will be held in this Chamber on the entire subject of Irish Water. I am sure the Minister would welcome such a debate and an opportunity to tease out the questions that are arising at present.