Local Authorities are threatening to evict Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) tenants who are unable to pay water charges, according to Sinn Féin.

Speaking during a debate on Budget measures, housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD said he had seen a letter which said RAS tenants would be jeopardising their tenancy if they did not pay the water charges.

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Mr Ellis said: "I have in my possession a letter from Wicklow County Council to RAS tenants. It states that if a tenant does not pay the water charges they will be in breach of their tenancy and I quote 'could jeopardise' that tenancy.

"Is the Minister for Environment aware that Local Authorities are threatening RAS tenants with eviction if they do not pay the water charges?

"We have new families going homeless every week. RAS tenancies are already insecure due to rent rises and repossessions and now this. This council are threatening to throw people out on the street if they do not pay this unfair charge. The Minister must respond to this."

(CD/JP)