Hogan hints at possible water charge delay

Water charges could be delayed if the Government cuts a new deal with the troika to give tax-burdened families “respite,” Environment Minister Phil Hogan has indicated.

In comments the opposition branded “confused buck-passing”, Mr Hogan insisted the controversial charges would be imposed as planned from January next year — but could be delayed if Finance Minister Michael Noonan managed to get a new agreement with the IMF/EU/ECB on the matter.

The planned Jan 1 launch date will see householders hit with water charges on the same day they receive their first full-year property tax demand.