Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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233. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if an ongoing issue (details supplied) with Irish Water will be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23059/18]

Eoghan Murphy (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
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Under sections 43 and 54 of the Water Services Act 2007, responsibility for maintenance and replacement of any water or wastewater pipes, connections or distribution systems that are located within the boundary of a private property rests with the owner. This was the position that pertained prior to the establishment of Irish Water, when individual local authorities held responsibility for public water services and infrastructure.

While the Act of 2007 sets out the legal position, Irish Water has developed the First Fix Free scheme for repairing domestic leaks, in line with broader water conservation policy objectives. The relevant policy document, Irish Water First Fix Leak Repair Scheme for Domestic Water Customers, as approved by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities on 5 August 2015, is available at the following weblink - www.water.ie/for-home/first-fix/first-fix-leak-repair-scheme.pdf.

The arrangements for the repair of leaks is an operational matter for Irish Water in which I have no direct involvement. However, I understand that Irish Water will repair a reported leak regardless of the size of that leak, within the parameters of its role as the public water services authority and subject to the criteria set out under the First Fix Free Scheme. I also understand that arrangements for the necessary repair works in this instance have been agreed by Irish Water with the homeowner concerned.

It may be helpful to note that Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. They may be contacted via email to oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on 1890 578 578.