Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 October 2014
326. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of staff employed by sub-contractors hired by Irish Water for customer services; the length of the contract; the total cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39163/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels. The procurement by Irish Water of external resources is a matter for the company and I have no role in the matter. Irish Water has advised that it appointed Abtran Ltd, Cork, to operate all customer contact channels and associated general administration. The contract is for a five year period (2013-2018) and was awarded following a competitive tender process. As such the financial value of the contract is commercially sensitive.
There are currently just under 500 staff engaged on the contract. This contract covers the provision of customer care to approximately 1.6 million domestic and business public water service users.
Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. They may be contacted via email at oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on 1890 278 278.
