Speaking in Ringsend, MEP Emer Costello said that the proposals of the Programme for Government should be strictly adhered to in the provision of treated water for householders.

She said: "There should be a generous free allowance for every householder as committed to in the Programme for Government.

"Furthermore, to protect vulnerable people, families with special needs, and senior citizens should be given additional free allowances.

-- Advertisement --

"The Programme for Government clearly envisages water metering and water charges as essentially conservation measures.

"A standing charge would be contrary to the basic principle of conservation.

"At present Dublin has a serious problem of water shortage. Its water supply is on a knife edge. Last year Dublin City Council imposed water rationing on city households for a number of weeks because of inadequacy of supply. Householders in other parts of the country must use bottled water or boil the local water before use.

"A regular supply of treated water is essential for a functioning city. At present Dublin is an attractive city for business to locate but many businesses are huge consumers of water.

"Until Dublin is able to provide a secure supply of treated water it will be vulnerable to competition from other cities which have no such problem."

(CD/JP)