Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government when the installation of water meters is going to begin for the initial trial and nationwide; the installers of the meters; the way in which one may apply for a job regarding the installation of the meters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45395/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The Government has decided that Irish Water, a new State-owned water company to be established as an independent subsidiary within the Bord Gáis Éireann Group, will be responsible for the metering programme.  In addition, the Government has recently approved the preparation of legislation to assign the necessary powers to allow Irish Water to undertake the metering programme.  The objective is to have the Bill enacted by the end of this year. Pending enactment, my Department will be working with the local authorities to progress aspects of the metering programme including the carrying out of surveys of domestic connections and will also be progressing the tender documentation for elements of the meter infrastructure.  The installation of water meters is due to commence in 2013. Installation contracts will be awarded by Irish Water to private contractors, who will be responsible for recruiting personnel to carry out the installations.