Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2015
191. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he will take with regard to home owners and tenants who do not pay their water charges bills; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15098/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels.
In November 2014 I announced a package of measures to ensure that domestic water charges are certain, affordable and clear. If a customer does not pay their water charges, late payment provisions shall automatically apply, unless the customer enters into a payment plan. In the case of a One Adult Household (capped at €160), €30 will be added to any bill where outstanding payments equate to the total annual payment and remain unpaid for 3 months or more. An additional €30 will be added on every anniversary of the original add on date while the bill remains unpaid or a payment plan has not been entered into with Irish Water. In the case of a Two Adult Household (capped at €260), €60 will be added and again at each anniversary.
The late payment charges will only apply where someone is in arrears for more than 12 months and has not entered into a payment plan with Irish Water. Payment plans will be developed based on an ability to pay and it is important to note that the late payment charges are focused on those who “will not pay”, rather than those who cannot pay.
A range of flexible payment options will be available. Irish Water will facilitate bill payment through direct debit, electronic funds transfer, payment by cash at any retail outlet with a Paypoint or Payzone sign, or a post office where a bill can be paid in full or part payments of a minimum of €5 can be made. The overall net cost for those who register is either €1.15 a week for single adult households or €3 a week for all others. Water supply will not be reduced under any circumstance.
Any customers who have unpaid water charges can be pursued through the Courts by Irish Water for the sums due and a debt judgment may be obtained against the customer.
The Government intends to bring forward legislation to enhance the collectability of domestic water charges, building on the approach set out in the Water Services Act 2014. Further details on the modalities involved will be available on publication of the draft legislation following Government approval.
