A campaign has been launched to raise pressure on water thieves.

NI Water launched the campaign to make sure water theft is reduced to the lowest possible level.

The theft of water involves a range of illegal activities such as, unauthorised connections to the public water main, misuse of domestic water supplies, bypassing of water meters and abusing hydrants.

Dr Gary Curran, Head of Metering & Billing, NI Water explained: "Most people do not realise that water theft affects them, many actually see it as a victimless crime – it is not. The illegal activity is generally carried out to evade payment of non-domestic water bills, which is basically fraud. This reckless behaviour also increases the risk of contamination to the public water supply and therefore a significant risk to public health. Therefore, it does affect us all.

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"In NI Water, we are focused on changing attitudes and mind-sets towards this type of illegal activity. The publicity campaign is a key part of our long-term approach to change the public's attitudes to water theft and encourage honesty. We recognise the vast majority of our customers are honest. However, we have a responsibility to tackle those who are not. Our aim is to prevent water theft from taking place and, through our Compliance Investigation Team, deal with it when it occurs."

Commending the support of Consumer Council Northern Ireland and the Utility Regulator, Dr Curran said: "If our efforts to counter this illegal activity are to be successful we will need the full support and co-operation of the public, our customers and staff. The support of other agencies is a clear indication of the partnership approach that will be necessary to deliver the campaign effectively across Northern Ireland.

"Our 'hotline' facility is available to everyone. It is confidential and we guarantee that any information we receive will be treated in the strictest confidence."

Graham Smith, Head of Water at the Consumer Council, said: "The Consumer Council supports NI Water's campaign, aimed at detecting, preventing and deterring water theft. We would encourage all consumers to report suspicious activity or known incidents of water theft, to the hotline, in order for the appropriate action to be taken."

(CD/LM)