Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

We will come forward with details on the implementation of the scheme.

Water metering will have to be paid for. The roll-out of metering will start in 2012. It is a water conservation measure. A lot of water is wasted. The lack of water conservation is now coming home to roost. Following the past two winters people now appreciate more than ever the importance of having good quality and quantity of water rather than be forced to have an inferior system and to purchase bottled water in shops. I wish to ensure we have a good water conservation strategy based on usage rather than a flat rate and that every household would have a quality and quantity of water paid for by the State and by the taxpayer in a fair way over and above a free, generous allowance for each household. I do not take on board the suggestion put forward by the Deputy opposite that this is a new charge. It is the same one his party negotiated when in government.

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