Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish him well. There can be no ambiguity. Those who paid for water through Irish Water or group water schemes or those with a private well who have been fully tax compliant must not be let down by the State. I assure Senator Gerald Nash that I am very confident that the Government will not be found wanting in that regard. We must ensure, as citizens of the State, that we will continue to be compliant with the laws of the land. Those who paid for water in a variety of ways must not be let down by the Government and if that means that they must be reimbursed or receive a tax credit, so be it. A process must be put in place.

Senator Michelle Mulherin raised the issue of fossil fuels. The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, will be in the House next week to discuss the matter.

Senator Paddy Burke referred to the Clerk of the Seanad, Ms Deirdre Lane, who has retired. I hope we will be able to facilitate tributes to her. The Senator also raised the matter of third level education in Castlebar. The Cassells report is being discussed by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Skills, from where I am sure we will see it progress.

I am happy to accept Senator Pádraig Ó Céidigh's proposed amendment to the Order of Business. The Committee on Procedure and Privileges has discussed the invitation to the Minister for Finance in the North, Mr. Ó Muilleoir, and the issue is being progressed with a view to having other speakers. I am confident that we will see it happen in the new year.