Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 14: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he expects the roll out of water meters for domestic homes will begin; if the cost of new meters will be met by local authorities or by central Government; if he plans to introduce domestic water charges for all domestic users at the same time or on a gradual basis as meters are installed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2554/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The renewed Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce charges for water in a way that is fair, significantly reduces waste and is easily applied.

I will shortly be bringing detailed proposals to Government on the approach to the metering of households on public supplies, including details on the financing and delivery of the metering programme. Legislation will also be drafted to provide local authorities with the powers to charge for domestic water use.

Following the phased installation of water meters, households will be charged for water services based on usage in line with the government commitment. It is envisaged that the installation of water meters will commence during 2011.