Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 230: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding maintenance of sewers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35673/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Section 43(3) of the Water Services Act 2007 places responsibility for the maintenance and renewal of a connection on the owner of a premises in order to:

· Prevent a risk to human health and the environment,

· Facilitate water conservation and the proper and effective management of water services, and to

· Prevent the infiltration or exfiltration of water and waste water.

The term "connection" includes a service connection for water supply or drainage of waste water up to the outer edge of the boundary to the curtilage of the premises. In other words, a householder is responsible for all water supply and drainage pipes and accessories on or under his or her property. The Office of the Ombudsman can examine a complaint about how a local authority carries out its executive and administrative functions. Details of how a member of the public can make a complaint to the Ombudsman's Office are available at www.ombudsman.gov.ie or at Lo-call 1890 223030.