Water Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 January 2014

Thursday, 16 January 2014

Questions (204)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

204. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason there is no provision in the Water Services Bill No. 2, as proposed by the Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht in its report on water provision in June 201, whereby Irish Water and the Commission for Energy Regulation would be obliged to consult, co-operate with and take account of the views of a statutory consumer-focused body on water issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1909/14]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

The Water Services Acts 2013 provide that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) will be responsible for the economic regulation of Irish Water. In particular, the CER will be responsible for approving the water charges plans prepared by Irish Water, and for approving codes of practice to be prepared by Irish Water. The codes of practice will cover matters such as the standard of performance, by Irish Water, of its functions; the provision of information by Irish Water to its customers; and the making of complaints by its customers.

In discharging its functions, the CER may consult with Irish Water, the public, or any other person it considers appropriate. The Commission has already undertaken public consultations on the development of the economic regulatory framework for water services and will be undertaking further consultations during 2014.