Written question asked by Lord Laird (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Monday, 30 October 2006.

Water Supply: Northern Ireland

Question: Whether land currently owned by the Water Service in Northern Ireland will be disposed of within the next 10 years; if so, on what basis; and where the proceeds will go.

Answer: As part of the water reform programme the Department for Regional Development is currently developing a transfer scheme to transfer assets and liabilities to the new government-owned company which will be responsible for the future delivery of water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland. The department is currently developing a draft licence under which the company will operate. The terms of this licence will determine how any proceeds from the disposal of any land currently owned by Water Service which is transferred to the new company will be allocated. The draft licence will be issued for public consultation later this year.

Secondary information