T4. Mr Blair asked the Minister for Infrastructure, having discovered in his work on water pollution a historical document, dated 2007, by the Utility Regulator, entitled 'Regulation of the Northern Irish water and sewerage industry: Statement of Regulatory Principles and Intent', which states, amongst other things, that there should be a reduction in the investment backlog in the foreseeable future and that there are "more exacting enforceable quality standards to be achieved", for an update on how those projected outcomes are being measured and on the work that is being done to address the investment backlog in waste water collection and treatment that presents quality compliance issues. (AQT 384/22-27)

On the investment backlog, until this year, NI Water was fully funded in accordance with the price control period — fully funded. Until 2024-25, NI Water's investment plans have been fully funded. As a result of the Budget and 10 or 11 years of austerity under Tory rule, it will not be possible to fully fund NI Water for 2024-25 in accordance with the price control period. I am looking towards 2025-26. My officials and I are engaging with NI Water. I also met the Utility Regulator to see how we can move forward to protect our waste water treatment infrastructure and our environment.

I thank the Minister for that answer. I will continue with a question on water quality. Can I have an update on the implementation, if there is to be any, of event duration monitors, which give notification that there will be a sewage overflow issue?

They are part of NI Water's future infrastructure investment plans. I will do my best to support NI Water in delivering those, because, as the Member said, they are an aid in tackling sewage and rainwater overflows into our watercourses.