Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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Question 272: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the valuable contribution that old folks associations make to local communities in providing old folks centres for the aged and retired, he will exempt such centres from water charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20345/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I greatly respect the contribution made by old folks associations to their local communities; however, it is not possible to exempt these or other community or voluntary organisations from water charges. Ireland has, under the EU Water Directive, secured an exemption but this is restricted to dwelling houses using water for ordinary household purposes.