Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 November 2014
156. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding water charges (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43359/14]
View answerFollowing 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 customers 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.
Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. They may be contacted via email at oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on 1890 578 578.
