Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 37: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to impose water charges on domestic users. [6924/11]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 40: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has sought legal advice on whether the planned water charges model complies with the EU Water Directive. [6925/11]

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 40 together.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to introduce a fair funding model to deliver reliable water services. The Programme also proposes the installation of water meters in individual households and introduction of water charges based on usage above a free allowance. My Department is currently preparing a strategy to implement these proposals, including legislation to allow for the introduction of domestic water charges. The advice of the Attorney General will be obtained on all aspects of the draft legislation before it is finalised.