Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 398: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence regarding reform of the water sector here (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15748/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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A six week public consultation was held from 16 January 2012 to 24 February 2012 on a range of water sector reforms which include:

· The establishment of a new public utility, Irish Water to take over the responsibility for the delivery of water services from local authorities;

· The introduction of water charges based on metered usage, with the metering programme to commence later in 2012;

· The introduction of independent economic regulation of the water sector under the Commission for Energy Regulation.

A paper setting out the proposed reforms and phase 1 of the independent assessment on the establishment of a water utility were published by my Department as part of this process. Our aim in conducting this public consultation, was to facilitate a more informed and inclusive debate on the very fundamental reforms proposed for the water sector. These reforms seek to ensure that the appropriate organisation and funding model are in place to deliver water services to existing and future users, while also providing the volume and quality of water and waste water services required to protect public health and support employment.

A considerable number of organisations, elected representatives and other individuals have made submissions as part of this process, including the submission referred to in this question. These are currently being examined, and the time and effort made by many groups and individuals in contributing to this process during the consultation period is appreciated. These submissions will be taken into consideration in developing the implementation plan for the transition of water services functions from the city and county councils to the public water utility, Irish Water. It is expected that this implementation plan will be finalised in April 2012. The views will also inform the further development of our approach to water metering and charging.