Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The reduction in the number of at-risk supplies from 141 last year to 121 is welcome. The number of people affected by boil water notices and at-risk supplies remains unacceptable. The EPA states that greater investment in drinking water infrastructure is needed. That is why a single national utility funded by domestic and non-domestic water charges is so essential. Water charges and the utility approach to water services will bring more investment and more focus to improving the water network. This year we will see increased investment in water infrastructure. It is expected that more than €420 million will be spent in 2015 and Irish Water is beginning to address the problems affecting the system, such as lead piping and all the other matters which the Senator and other Members have raised. I think the matter is being addressed. It cannot be addressed overnight but it shows the need for much capital investment in the water infrastructure.

Senator Terry Brennan raised the issue of fuel laundering and sludge, and the need for continuous monitoring of water supplies, especially in the north Louth area.