Taoiseach Enda Kenny has told the Irish Independent newspaper that people must pay water charges in Ireland.

Sinn Féin TD Eoin Ó Broin described it as a "slap in the face" for voters, and said it ignores the 'clear democratic will' of the people expressed in February's general election.

He said: "It also undermined the Governments coalition agreement with Fianna Fáil as it clearly predetermines the outcome of the expert commission before it has even been established.

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"Enda Kenny is hiding behind an unnamed briefing as cover to continue with water charges. Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan received confirmation that no officials within the Water Division of the Commission or any relevant spokesperson had made an official statement to the media.

"A decision by the EU Commission will only be made when a second River Basin Management Plan is summited next year. This plan must provide for ending of charges. Any comments before then are highly speculative and politically loaded.

"Both Enda Kenny and individuals within the European Commission are determined to continue water charges."

(CD/JP)