Water charge information
Senator Mullen welcomes extending the flat water charge period but seeks real-time usage information and support for replacing inefficient appliances.
I am asking it as a question and not making any flamboyant statement. It is a legitimate and important question. It is not appropriate to cast a ballot on any ballot paper where the information on it is false and I would like to know what is the status of such a process in law.
I also wish to raise the issue of water charges. What has been announced today on the extension of the period for a flat charge to nine months is welcome, but it goes nowhere near providing people with the real-time information for which I called last week, whereby people would be able to assess their usage from the beginning of October to see how they are doing and what needs to change. Considering that many families will be interested in conserving water, people may be surprised to learn the water efficiency of washing machines and dishwashers can vary greatly. Perhaps they might not be surprised. The most efficient washing machines use 6 litres per kilogram of clothes in comparison to the least efficient, which use 14 litres per kilogram. Many families would consider replacing white goods such as washing machines and dishwashers with more economic models. Would it not be an idea to provide tax relief for those who want to do so? The Leader is aware grants are available for domestic energy saving measures such as solar panels and replacing boilers. There should be a grant or tax relief system for people to fit rainwater tanks. Such grants are available for farmers but not for domestic customers.