By decree of the Government, in only seven days' time it will have another punitive tax on ordinary people in the form of water charges. Is it not incredible that we still do not have the information from the energy regulatory as to what exactly the Government will demand from households? On the social welfare Bill, will the €100 grant the Tánaiste proposes for some categories of welfare recipient be provided for in that?

We cannot discuss the content of Bills.

Does the Tánaiste realise how insulted people feel that she thinks that makes up for the complete breach of a promise she made at the election that there would be no water tax when, for a family of four, it will be €500 a year? What does the Tánaiste say to people who are fearful of what is coming down the line?

The Tánaiste might be able to think about it but she cannot say it on the Order of Business.

Deputy Higgins asked, on pending legislation, would the measure for the 410,000 households which will benefit from a quarterly payment of €25 or €100 per annum be legislated for after the budget, and the answer is "yes". While he may wish to disregard it, many feel that is an appropriate and helpful assistance.

Then the Tánaiste is completely out of touch.

It will assist 410,000 households, including pensioners, carers, those who have a child on a domiciliary care allowance and those on disability. It will also be of significant assistance in reducing their water charges bill. As Deputy Higgins will be aware-----

We cannot have a debate. We are over time.

-----the best way to reduce water charges is to reduce consumption.

The Tánaiste is a disgrace.

When people are able to be advised of their consumption, we will have a significant opportunity to reduce expensive water usage.

Deputy Higgins should sit down. He is out of touch.

That completes the Order of Business.

Will Deputy Higgins resume his seat?

Deputy Higgins is a bully.

Deputy Higgins knows he is out of order. He is long enough around here.

It is a disgrace.