Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I said, in essence, this results in free water for children. I believe these are very progressive and good rules, regulations and legislation which mean that children's consumption is actually free.

Extensive consideration has also been given to providing supports to vulnerable households. In this regard, the Government has agreed on additional affordability measures to assist pensioners, people with disabilities and carers who receive the household benefits package. This package, which currently provides assistance with ESB and gas bills as well as covering the full cost of a television licence, will now be extended to assist with water costs. The value of this additional benefit will be approximately €100 a year to each recipient. In addition to the free allowance and supports through the Department of Social Protection, the Government is also providing that charges for those with high water usage arising from a medical condition will be capped at an average charge. The details of this measure are being discussed with the Minister for Health.

The Government has also decided that provision should be made for circumstances in which the quality of the water service provided to customers is impaired or where services are reduced or impaired. Irish Water is making every effort to support households-----

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