Dirty water in north Cork
Deputy Gould complained that northside Cork city still had dirty drinking water despite major investment, describing affected households and businesses and demanding funding and answers. The Minister of State said clean water was a human right, promised engagement with Uisce Éireann, and confirmed the relevant upgrade was on the list, while the Chair repeatedly intervened to manage time and shouting.
The water in the northside of Cork city is an absolute disgrace. There is dirty, unclean water going to half the population of Cork. I was in Mount Farran on Monday where I met a father who told me his wife is in hospital. He has four young children, two of whom are diagnosed with ASD. He is trying to wash their clothes and they are coming out black. I have photographs that I can send to the Minister. He is buying 120 l of water a week so his children have clean water, but when his kids get into the shower the water comes out dirty.
I met a lady who has had a launderette in the northside for 30 years. She has lost her contracts and is at risk of going out of business because she cannot get water. You cannot run a launderette without water. This woman has been running a business for 30 years. This is happening right across the northside, from Gurranabraher to Farranree to Ballyvolane. There was a commitment in the budget to give €1 billion to Irish Water. We need €500 million to replace the 300 km of cast-iron pipes.
Comment on this
Will the Minister give a commitment to that money today? Irish water should go back to the council. It should be taken off Uisce Éireann.
Comment on this
I am conscious the Deputy has raised this matter on a few occasions. Clean drinking water is an absolute human right that everyone should have an entitlement to. We will engage with Uisce Éireann on this. I met with Uisce Éireann recently about the upgrade of the Kilkenny regional water supply scheme and the commitment has been given by Government, both in the budget and in the additional money from the AIB funds, to ensure Uisce Éireann can realise its capital ambition over the next number of years.
Comment on this
The people of the northside do not have clean drinking water.
Comment on this
Absolutely, and that upgrade is on the list.
Comment on this
A sum of €44 million was paid for new water infrastructure and the water is dirty.
Comment on this
We will follow that up with Uisce Éireann.
Comment on this
The Minister of State should be able to answer that. A sum of €44 million was given and the water is dirty.