Non-domestic water charges
Deputy McGrath objects to transferring non-domestic water charging to Irish Water during the water-charge moratorium, warning that businesses may bear excessive costs. The Taoiseach points to the Water Services (Amendment) Bill proceeding in the Seanad, which McGrath says does not answer his concern.
The county councils, through a memorandum of understanding, are transferring water charging functions in relation to non-domestic water to Irish Water. This means supply to all types of businesses, including farms, shops and so on, will be affected. In the context of the so-called "ceasefire" in relation to water charges, why are businesspeople being asked to pay for water? Why is this train moving on? This is a retrograde step. It is unfortunate and I do not think-----
Comment on this
I am asking about the Water Services (Amendment) Bill. As I said, what the county councils are doing is a retrograde step. Why are we moving in the artillery from the side given the moratorium on water charges while the report of the expert commission is awaited? Are businesspeople the patsies who are going to pay all the expenses? My concern is that charges on private contributors will increase exorbitantly.
Comment on this
Committee and Remaining Stages of the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2016 will be taken in the Seanad tomorrow.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach's response is not an answer my question.