Senators debate water bill until 3am

Senators debated the Water Services Bill into the early hours of this morning.

The Seanad discussed the details for over 16 hours, before it was adjourned at 3am.

The Water Services Bill was passed by the Dáil on Thursday by 81 votes to 58. The legislation then moved to the Seanad for debate.

The debate was adjourned last night until midday on Monday, with some senators accused of filibustering.

Labour Senator John Whelan said it's too important an issue to be debated overnight.

"The debate didn't end last night until … 3am. Personally, I think that's no time at all for anyone … to be discussing and debating important and critical legislation that has an impact that will run for years and decades to come."

"It's totally inappropriate and not the way to do business - we should be doing it during the day when everyone's sharp and on their toes."