Any water charge introduced should be fair and not cause undue hardship, especially for those on very low incomes.
This is the view of Labour councillor Neil McNelis, who said he will be “looking for assurances in this regard” from the Government. He is also calling for a national waiver scheme for people who “simply cannot afford to pay huge sums of money for their water”.
This week the Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan said there will be no introduction of a domestic water charge until a metering system has been put in place. The Minister’s statements sought to allay fears that a flat rate water charge would be introduced next year.
The statement has been welcomed by Cllr McNelis, who said the Programme for Government “clearly outlines” that water meters be installed to introduce a charging system based on use above a free allowance.
Cllr McNelis said a flat-rate charge” offers users no incentive whatsoever” for householders to be economical with their water use and “no opportunity” to reduce their bills.
“Labour has consistently been opposed to unmetered water charges,” he said. “It would be unacceptable to expect people on low incomes to fork out substantial sums of money, when many are already put to the pin of their collars to make ends meet.”
Cllr McNelis said it is “essential the process of installation” of water meters begins as soon as possible. “Installation will not only expedite a fairer billing system,” he said, “but will also provide much-needed employment for builders and contractors.”
