Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2014
114. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider the inclusion of group water schemes in any free allowance of water which may be provided for by the energy regulator in the pricing scheme which is to be developed. [5763/14]
View answer121. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if a date has been confirmed for the introduction of water charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5836/14]
View answerI propose to take Question Nos. 114 and 121 together.
The Programme for Government sets out a commitment to the introduction of water charges based on usage above a free allowance. The Government considers that charging based on usage is the fairest way to charge for water and it has, therefore, decided that water meters should be installed in households connected to public water supplies. The Government will decide on the proposed approaches to be taken in relation to the free allowance in the near future.
The Water Services (No.2) Act 2013 provides Irish Water with the power to charge for water services. The Act also provides that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) will be responsible for the economic regulation of Irish water and the charges to be levied by Irish Water will be subject to the approval of the CER. The CER has already undertaken public consultations on the development of the economic regulatory framework for water services and will be undertaking further consultations during 2014. Water charges will not commence until 1 October 2014 and the first bills will be issued by Irish Water to households from January 2015.
My Department will remain responsible for the overall policy and funding, where appropriate, of the non-public water sector, including the group water sector. Over the past decade, substantial improvements have been made in the group water sector, reflected in improved infrastructure and management and leading to greater compliance with drinking water standards. This has been accomplished through a partnership approach between my Department, the local authorities and the group water sector itself, with the important involvement of the National Federation of Group Water Schemes. This co-operative approach will be maintained as the reform of water services provision is progressed.
