Rising water charges to hit farmers in the pocket, warns Fine Gael
“On average, in the west of Ireland, most farmers will require at least three meters, with 20% of farmers requiring five or more meters, given the number of farm parcels they own,” said Deputy Naughten. “Farmers will either pay for them directly through a high charge for each meter on their farm, or through an increased charge per gallon on the water which they use. One way or another, there is no doubt that water charges will increase, because councils, due to reduced funding from the Government, have to make up more of their budget from local taxes and charges.”
Already, the Northern Committee of Cork County Council has agreed a 6% increase in non-domestic water charges for 2007. All non-domestic properties will have a meter installed in 2007. Once this is completed, all billing will be based on usage.
