Based on yesterday's revelations by the chief executive officer of Bord Gáis of a two year delay in the installation of water meters, can we expect a similar delay in regard to the legislation promised on the establishment of Irish Water?

No. We are facing a situation where 160,000 people are out of work in the construction sector. This is about installing meters, either on private properties or at the connection point between a public water supply and a private home. I listened to the comments to which the Deputy referred and we do not accept the figures given and have made no decision on the matter. We have decided to set up Irish Water as a publicly owned entity under the overall umbrella of Bord Gáis. That is a matter for discussion and there will be no undue delay in dealing with the legislation.