Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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457. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will address the problem of very regular water disruptions to households and businesses in Killorglin and the greater mid-Kerry area; if a water charge waiver will be introduced in this area as long as the disruptions continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5204/14]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I refer to the replies to Questions Nos. 218 of 16 January 2014 and 137 of 30 January 2014 which set out the position in relation to Killorglin.

With effect from 1 January 2014, Irish Water is responsible for public water services. The Water Services (No. 2) Act 2013 provides that Irish Water can collect charges from its customers in receipt of water services. The Act also provides that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) will be responsible for the independent economic regulation of Irish Water.  The CER will be responsible for protecting the interests of customers and the charges levied by Irish Water will be subject to the approval of their water charges plan by the CER.  Local Authorities will continue with all of their current charging regimes on behalf of Irish Water, pending the consideration by the Commission for Energy Regulation of a proposed water charges plan developed by Irish Water. 

The Water Services (No. 2) Act 2013 requires that Irish Water prepare codes of practice, on a range of matters, including standards in relation to the performance of its functions and billing by Irish Water of persons in respect of water services provided.  Irish Water will also be required to prepare a code of practice on any matter considered necessary by the CER.  I expect that the CER will consider issues where restrictions are in place on water supplies in fulfilling its functions.