Written answers

Tuesday, 7 October 2014

Department of Environment, Community and Local Government

Water Charges Exemptions

Photo of Maureen O'SullivanMaureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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527. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the provisions for additional water allowances for those with disabilities and for those whose health conditions require additional use of water, that is, skin conditions. [37667/14]

Photo of Terence FlanaganTerence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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528. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his views that Irish Water has indicated that plans to draw up a list of medical conditions will be put on hold for another two years; his further views that this is unfair to those who suffer from medical conditions that result in having to use more water; if he will ensure that details of concessions for those with illnesses and disabilities are finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37691/14]

Photo of Alan KellyAlan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 527 and 528 together.

Following the completion of consultation in the matter with the Minister for Health, I have decided that Irish Water customers with high water consumption due to medical conditions will have their bills capped at the relevant assessed charge, on the basis of self-declaration of eligibility. This will apply even where a water meter has been installed and will ensure that those customers will not be liable for additional costs arising from their medical conditions.

This is an inclusive approach and there is no list of qualifying medical conditions. There is no requirement for the customer to state on the Irish Water application form the particular medical condition giving rise to the need to use additional water. Customers simply need to request the registration form and information on special and priority services from Irish Water. Those who have already completed the application form but who did not request the additional registration form should make contact with Irish Water.

To ensure that the scheme is not subject to abuse, Irish Water may selectively audit a customer’s circumstances, including requiring supporting evidence from a medical practitioner and it may also investigate instances of high usage to determine if there is other water use or leakage at the property.

This process will be in place for the first regulatory period which runs to end of 2016 and in light of the experience further refinements could be made.

Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. They may be contacted via email at or by telephone on 1890 278 278.

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