Doherty urges Meath householders to have their say on water charges

Fine Gael Meath East TD, Regina Doherty, has today (Monday) urged Meath householders to have their say on water rates by engaging in the public consultation process due to begin in April. It comes after Deputy Doherty urged the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) to set lower water rates for households with hard water.

“I have written to the CER, which is responsible for setting water charges, calling on it to take into account the fact that householders in Meath have to deal with hard water. Meath residents are already paying more than others because hard water affects pipes, kettles, irons and washing machines and can shorten the life span of expensive home appliances. This has a very real financial impact on homeowners.

“The CER Chairperson, Dermot Nolan, has responded to my concerns by inviting the public to make submissions to the Commission in April during its consultation process on water tariffs. This is the best way for members of the public to get their views across on what would constitute fair water rates.

“Fianna Fáil is shouting loudly about their opposition to water rates, despite the fact that the Party promised to introduce water charges while in Government. The reality is, the only way to have an impact on the rates charged is to engage with the body actually setting tariffs; the CER.

“I want Meath householders to have their voices heard on this issue, and therefore I am encouraging them to submit their views to the CER. The Commission has already noted my concerns about water quality in Meath, and I think it is important that we make it abundantly clear that people’s concerns about hard water should be taken into account when tariffs are being set.”

ENDS