Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will not support the amendment, and I have already outlined the reason for that. It is the role of the HSE. The HSE is responsible for advising on public health, be it with regard to fluoride or anything else. I have no doubt that Irish Water and the Minister will take into consideration whatever recommendation finally emerges from the HSE after it has analysed and studied international research. I believe the HSE will eventually make a recommendation on fluoride that will be ground-breaking. I note what has happened in other countries. The State retains experts to advise on these matters, and when they eventually make a recommendation it will be complied with by the Government, the Minister and Irish Water. That is a fact. We certainly do not need to include a provision such as this in primary legislation.

Before I conclude, it is appropriate to commend the Minister on his passionate performance when discussing this Bill over the last number of days. When Deputy Alan Kelly says that something will be privatised over his dead body, I believe him. It is a pity-----