I propose to take Question Nos. 56 and 113 together.
I am fully aware of the difficulties with water supplies in the Dublin area. My Department has been in close contact about the situation with the local authorities concerned, who are of course responsible for the provision and management of water supplies.
Work is in progress on a major scheme to increase the water production capacity of the Ballymore Eustace treatment plant. In addition, I have recently approved a preliminary report to improve the efficiency of the Vartry water supply treatment plant. As well as long term proposals, this report includes short term measures that will allow the Vartry treatment plant to improve the quality and quantity of water production. My Department has asked Dublin Corporation to expedite the planning of these proposals so that work can commence as soon as possible.