Concern Over New Water Charges for Domestic Dwellings
Issued : Saturday 17 February, 2007
Areas : Fingal
There has been some concern from a number of residents about the possible level of water charges that may be imposed on their homes, according to Labour Councillor Peter Coyle. Water meters have been installed outside domestic residences, at addresses where official businesses are registered (including B&B's). B&B's have been paying a fixed annual charge of €150 for the past couple of years. Cllr. Peter Coyle raised the matter at a recent Fingal Council meeting.
Peter was informed that in accordance with the Governments National Water Pricing Policy Framework all users of water for non-domestic purposes are required to pay for water used. In order to implement this policy Fingal County Council, through its Contractors GMC Group, are in the process of installing a meter on all non-domestic water supplies. Cllr Peter Coyle had asked when the scheme was being introduced and what allowances were being made for domestic users, given that domestic water charges were abolished over 10 years ago. Peter was informed that the scheme would operate for existing fixed charge users, where a new meter has been installed, with effect from March quarter 2007. It will operate for the balance of fixed charge users from the quarter following the installation of the meter. A credit or debit, whichever is appropriate, will be applied to the new account. Where a business operates on the same water supply as a domestic residence, an allowance currently at €30.00 per quarter for each residence on the supply, is applied to the account.
Cllr. Peter Coyle expresses concern about the fixed allowance for households for domestic water usage, because it does not take into account the family size, number of people living in the house, household visitors/guests etc.
Cllr 
