Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I should have indicated previously that subsequent questions dealt with social housing and homelessness. I concur with the comments made by Deputies Barry Cowen and Brian Stanley on this issue. They are probably aware of the announcement I made earlier today. We will address the issue in subsequent questions.

Article 9 of the water framework directive of 2000 requires member states to take account of the principle of recovery of the costs of water services in accordance with the well known principle that the polluter pays. Article 9(4) of the directive states member states are not in breach of the directive if they decide, in accordance with established practices, not to apply the provisions of the recovery of costs for a given water use activity where this does not compromise the purposes and achievement of the objectives of the directive. However, Ireland does not have any specific derogation from the directive. I emphasise this point as I have read analysis and commentary to the contrary.

The Government's policy on water charges is fully consistent with the objectives of the water framework directive and reflects the commitment entered into as part of the Programme of Financial Support for Ireland, 2010 to 2013, agreed between the previous Fianna Fáil-led Government and the European Union, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The programme for Government commits to introducing a fair funding model to deliver clean and reliable water and establishing a new State owned utility to take responsibility for water infrastructure. The new, more sustainable funding model being put in place through the establishment of Irish Water will allow for the investment required to ensure our water infrastructure can meet demographic and economic needs and comply with the requirements of the water framework directive in respect of the water environment.

In line with Government policy and the provisions of the Water Services (No. 2) Act 2013, Irish Water can collect charges from its customers in receipt of water services provided by it. The package of measures I announced in the House on 19 November provides clarity and certainty and will ensure water charges are affordable for customers. Legislation will be introduced in the House later this week to underpin this package of measures.

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