Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 444: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimate, following his discussions with various local authorities throughout the country, of the number of schools which have installed water meters; if as a result of the installation of these meters this has led to a reduction or an increase in the water rate charged to these schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20719/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The information requested in relation to the number of schools which are metered for water charges is not available in my Department. However, the metering of all non-domestic water users, including schools, is expected to be completed before the end of 2008. Water charging of non-domestic users on a volumetric basis should incentivise efficiency and conservation in the use of water, thereby reducing the running costs of non-domestic users generally.

Following on from a commitment in the Programme for Government in relation to school water charges, the Government decided on 4 January 2008 to introduce transitional arrangements for charging schools for water services, pending full cost from 1 January 2010. The transitional arrangements, involving a flat rate charge per pupil for water services, are the basis on which schools are to be charged for water services for the years 2007 to 2009. However, if actual usage, as recorded by a meter, produces a lower charge than the flat rate, the lower bill will apply for the transition period.

In the context of full cost recovery being applicable from 1 January 2010, local authorities have been asked to provide all schools with periodic indicative bills showing the volume of water supplied in the specified period and the associated full cost charge. Those schools with abnormally high water consumption are to be identified and contacted with advice on the necessity to implement measures to reduce water usage. Details of those schools are also to be supplied to the Department of Education and Science. This should assist schools in preparing for the transition to full volumetric billing in 2010.