Brian Ó Domhnaill (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We know what is going to happen with the sunset clause. If the people on the Government side of the House were honest about it, they would say they know exactly what is going to happen. If those in Fine Gael and the Labour Party are in opposition in a few years time, they may be criticising Sinn Féin, the Independents or Fianna Fáil - whoever is in Government - if the charges are increased. They should remember that they are setting the template not only to increase the charges but to sell a very profitable company with a massive database and a massive collection facility which is enshrined in law. It is ludicrous. We can return to this discussion on Committee Stage but I think it is wrong to piggyback on what is credible legislation and to muddy the waters of that credible legislation with this nonsense around Irish Water. I think the Minister of State has been sold a pig in a poke. I do not blame her for it but this amendment of the legislation is not right.

Senator Hayden raised some very credible points and I agree with everything she said. She speaks with authority and she is right in her view about the landlord and tenant issue. I know this is an issue in Dublin. I have friends in Dublin who are facing significant difficulties with landlord-tenant relations. I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for his latitude.