Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2012
306 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding water meters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6260/12]
View answerThe Programme for Government provides for the introduction of a fair funding model to deliver clean and reliable water. The Memorandum of Understanding with the EU, the IMF and the ECB also contains commitments for the reform of water services delivery and operation and the introduction of domestic water charges.
To meet these commitments, the Government intends initiating a universal water metering programme in advance of the introduction of domestic water charges. This will facilitate moving to a charging system for domestic water users that is based on use above a free allowance as provided for in the Programme for Government. A procurement strategy for the metering programme is currently being prepared and this will include detailed specifications for meters and related equipment. The metering programme will be the subject of a competitive procurement process in accordance with EU and national procurement rules.
