Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I, too, welcome the Minister of State to the House for this debate, which I think should be open, honest and frank. If we are all honest with ourselves, this is a regrettable day because it is a huge backwards step in terms of investment in what are our essential water networks that are required for the future of this country and for our citizens. We are essentially postponing the day. It is a classic kick-to-touch and I say that as a Government Senator. It is happening simply because Fianna Fáil over-promised on water during the last general election and this legislation is to facilitate Government formation with the agreement of Fianna Fáil. However, I think it will rue the day when the commission finishes its report because I predict that either Fianna Fáil will do one of the biggest U-turns and climbdowns in the history of the State or we will have another general election. The stance of the Fianna Fáil Senator I heard speak this morning is a hypocritical. The facts are there. Fianna Fáil signed this country up to water charges when it signed the memorandum of understanding with the troika a number of years ago. That is a fact.