Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 February 2017
219. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he has requested local authorities to ascertain the number of swimming pools that are in private residences across the country in view of his support for an excessive use water charge. [9182/17]
View answerAs provided for in the 'Confidence and Supply Arrangement' agreed in the context of supporting a minority government, a Special Oireachtas Committee is currently deliberating on the findings of the Expert Commission on Domestic Public Water Services. This work is due to be completed by mid-March 2017. The Oireachtas will then consider the recommendations of the Special Committee and will vote on the enduring funding model for public domestic water services within a further period of one month. This vote would therefore be expected to be taken by mid-April 2017. Among the key issues the Committee is considering is the Expert Commission's recommendation in relation to a charge for excessive use of water. No information in relation to swimming pools in private residences is available in my Department and I have not requested that such information be collated.
