Contractors in Kilkenny accused of engaging in alleged 'cartel like behaviour'

Kilkenny Sinn Féin TD Natasha Newsome Drennan raised allegations in the Dáil on Wednesday of what she described as 'cartel like behaviour' by contractors used by Uisce Éireann to repair water leaks across Kilkenny.

During her Dáil speech, Deputy Newsome Drennan challenged the Minister on how he could stand over the "cartel like behaviour".

"Just five years ago, installing two concrete rings cost between five and seven thousand euros - now these same contractors are charging nearly forty thousand," she said.

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"A burst mains pipe used to cost around €1,600, now it’s between €9,000 and €10,000. If they lay one metre of concrete they get paid for 7 metres.

"I am getting reports of how contractors are communicating between each other to drive up quotes as high as possible. Cartel like behaviour.

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"What is happening is daylight robbery. It is theft of taxpayers’ money. The conduct, and complete absence of accountability of Uisce Éireann and the handing out of contracts is a scandal waiting to break."

Deputy Newsome Drennan concluded in the Dáil by calling for a full review into Uisce Éireann's handling of these contracts.

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