Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Feb 2002

Vol. 549 No. 4

Written Answers. - Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Bernard Allen

Question:

203 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has issued a directive to local authorities to employ independent contractors for the installation of water meters in the water supply services; and if he has issued a directive directing that private contractors be used to maintain the meters as well as the plants for water and sewerage services. [6937/02]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

In accordance with Government policy, local authorities are required to complete the metering of all non-domestic users of water services by 2006. The practical arrangements to give effect to metering, including in respect of procurement options, are a matter for each relevant local authority.

No directive has been issued by my Department in relation to this matter. A circular letter sent in December 2000 suggested however that in this context consideration could be given to a public private partnership approach or some other form of outsourcing which might extend to some or all of the following elements: meter provision, installation, maintenance and reading.