Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

It is a separate Bill. A question was asked as to whether I gave a direction to local authorities and the answer is "No".
In regard to payments, a range of flexible payment systems will be put in place for those who find it difficult to pay the charges. Senators will be glad to know that I have insisted on An Post being used as part of the payment plan option, a suggestion raised in this House on many occasions. Various payment mechanisms will be used by An Post and there will also be a number of other easy pay options, such as Payzone and direct debits.
The late payment charges are focused on those who refuse to pay or to engage with Irish Water. I assure the House that those who have affordability difficulties will be treated sympathetically and measures will be put in place to ensure that. Community welfare officers will, of course, be asked to help people with issues.
I cannot recall the date on which I announced in Cork that I believed it was inappropriate that anybody's water would ever be turned off. I made the decision that this was not the right way to go and changed that provision. I wish to make it clear to the House that no household will be disconnected from the water supply due to inability to pay. I believe it was important to take this step.
No memo has gone to local authorities in regard to the second piece of legislation which will be introduced in the new year. This legislation is being drafted currently and I hope to publish it early in the new year.
To be clear, if a person has difficulty paying water bills but is in communication with Irish Water and is entering a payment plan or process, that person will be treated sympathetically and late payment charges will not apply.
I believe I have answered all of the questions.