Statement from Áras an Uachtaráin – Water Services Bill 2014
Date: Wed 17th Dec, 2014 | 16:48
President Michael D. Higgins, having given careful consideration to all constitutional aspects of the Bill and the options available, today signed the Water Services Bill 2014.
Among the submissions, the President received a number of requests to refer the Bill to the people for decision under Article 27 of Bunreacht na hÉireann but Article 27 of Bunreacht na hÉireann applies only where Bills have been deemed by virtue of Article 23 of Bunreacht na hÉireann to have been passed by the Houses of the Oireachtas. Article 27 of Bunreacht na hÉireann therefore did not apply in this case. The President gave consideration to the Bill, taking into account Bunreacht na hÉireann including Article 26 and the submissions received.