A transfer of services and assets will have to take place to Irish Water from local authorities throughout the country. This will include resources such as storage facilities and tanks, local authority equipment, infrastructure and man power. It will require legislation. Will the Tánaiste outline when this legislation will be introduced or when we are proposing to bring it in? We have had to bring in legislation to access the National Pensions Reserve Fund.

Is there promised legislation?

There is, yes. There have been discussions between the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and Irish Water with the local authorities and the trade unions representing staff in the local authorities. Those discussions have concluded. A water services Bill, the heads of which were approved by Government approximately two weeks ago is emerging and it is expected to be published later this year.