The Tanaiste's given the clearest hint yet that the period of capped water charges could be extended.
Joan Burton says the timetable for setting up Irish Water was "too ambitious" - and also that it's too early for its staff to receive bonuses, while Irish Water is in its "establishment period".
It's the clearest hint yet that the nine-month ceiling for water charges could be extended until the programme for installing water meters is complete.
Meanwhile the Public Accounts Committee has been told it cannot investigate Irish Water's spending so far - despite not having made any attempt to do so.
Legal advisors have written to the committee - without being asked - to warn it that Irish Water is outside its remit.
The chairman of the committee says he fears other sources within the Oireachtas are trying to stifle its work.
Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reports for Today FM's National Lunchtime News:
