The Government has been slammed for "throwing away taxpayers money" following the establishment of Irish Water.

Sinn Féin Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh said the setting up of the firm is an "absolute shambles" and the money should have been invested in proper infrastructure and upgrading of water and sewerage systems.

He said: "Irish Water have been installing water meters throughout Galway. They would have been better off replacing the lead pipes, upgrading infrastructure and dealing with water quality issues across the city and county.

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"Sinn Féin activists recently took samples of homeowners' tap water from Shantalla, Bohermore and Ballinfoile. On a number of occasions, dangerously high levels of lead were identified, well above that set out under EU health standards. The recent water contamination episode in Moyola Park illustrates the importance of having a clean and safe water supply free from restriction whether that be of a financial or environmental nature.

"We have substandard water supplies in Carraroe, Leenane and many other areas and there are delays in installing proper sewerage treatment in Carraroe, Spiddal, Athenry and many, many other areas.

"If the government had listened to Sinn Féin and the ordinary people on the ground from day one much of the financial waste and mismanagement would have been avoided."

(CD/MH)