The Taoiseach Enda Kenny has confirmed that the Government is to finalise the matter of Irish Water charges in the next fortnight. Mr Kenny also said that Irish Water would never be privatised, Mr Kenny said the Coalition had listened to the concerns of people.
Mr Kenny said he believes that a fee regime that was clear, fair, affordable and accountable would be put in place. He said he wanted contributions to be as low as possible. The Taoiseach also confirmed that Irish Water would never be privatised and the public should understand that charges would be for the greater benefit of the country to ensure the water infrastructure was up to standard and capable of dealing with future demand.
It is understood that the Government is currently evaluating the pricing model and in particular at households with more than two adults. According to figures 80% of households are made up of one or two adults, and 20% are made up of more than two adults. It is believed that under the present pricing regime, a household with one adult will be charged €176, with an additional charge of €102 for each additional adult.
One option currently being considered is that the same charge would apply to all households with more than two adults. Although Mr Kenny did say the Government is still considering its options and no decisions have yet been made.