Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

As the Minister is aware, schools are trying to keep their heads above water in terms of a range of new costs, particularly heating and fuel costs. One charge on foot of which most schools are having to pay through the nose is the new water charge. For example, water charges levied on all the schools in the area of South Dublin County Council have more than doubled over the past five years. Will the Minister conduct a nationwide survey of all the local authorities to determine exactly what increases have occurred in recent years? Bearing in mind the transition period between now and January 2010, what enhanced capitation and other benefits will the Minister give to schools next year to ensure they will not have to pay the very excessive water charges they expect at present?

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