Lorraine Clifford Lee (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to discuss Brexit first and foremost. We have learned that the UK is putting formal proposals to the negotiators in Europe which are along the lines of the leaks we have heard in recent days, including ten customs posts on each side of the Border and that the North would leave the area by 2025. This House needs to send a clear signal that this proposal is completely unacceptable and a non-runner. We have already got indications that it is not legally operative. I believe some EU capitals have been briefed on this plan, but I know Dublin has not been briefed. The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputy Coveney, has said he has not received any formal briefing from the UK Government, which is of concern. I am sure the Tánaiste and everybody from these Houses will tell the UK that this is completely unacceptable.

Irish citizens living in the North of Ireland will not be protected by this proposal. Issues of identity which have been largely settled over the past 20 years will be thrown open once more. The Tories never really understood that the issues surrounding the Border and the Good Friday Agreement related to more than trade and also covered identity. They are crucial to the health, safety and well-being of all people on this island. I want to send a clear signal from this side of the House - I am sure it will be reiterated across the House - that the backstop is not open for negotiation.

I also refer to the lack of Irish Water connections. A considerable amount of construction is going on in my area in north County Dublin and in other areas. The Government has repeated the mantra that it is delivering housing. However, it is not delivering water connection to houses. I have spoken to builders on various housing estates in north County Dublin. They have told me they have been waiting seven, eight or nine months for a connection to houses that are already built and lying idle. Last week a man told me he has been waiting 18 months since he first put in a request for a connection into an estate.

This is causing great levels of stress for people. They are waiting for their newly-built house for which they have sacrificed so much. They have given notice to quit in accommodation they are renting or they are living in overcrowded accommodation with family members and hoping their houses will be completed. Water connection is needed alongside the delivery of housing. It is the nuts and bolts of delivery of housing and this needs to be addressed.

I ask for indulgence to allow me to mention the 7,300 people who have been on the waiting list for home help hours, a figure that has risen in recent weeks. The Minister of State, Deputy Daly, has said he is ashamed and embarrassed about it, as he should be because it is completely outrageous. I am sure that many other Fine Gael Senators, Deputies and Ministers are ashamed and embarrassed about this Government's delivery for the most vulnerable people in society. It is no wonder they are leaving election tickets in droves because of the Government's track record.