Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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Question 94: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the process that will be used to implement the introduction of the new water taxes; the estimated cost of same nationally; if it will be on an individual metered basis; the way the installation of meters will be managed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6091/11]

Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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Question 95: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there will be a waiver system in place for persons on low incomes and social welfare on the introduction of the new water tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6092/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 94 and 95 together.

The programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce a fair funding model to deliver reliable water services. The programme also proposes the establishment of a new State-owned water utility company and the installation of water meters in individual households and introduction of water charges based on usage above a free allowance. My Department is currently developing a strategy for the procurement and installation of water meters. The Government will consider the implications of water charges for low income households in the context of providing the free allowance. I will be making further details available, including the cost of the metering programme, in due course.