Thousands seek water charge exemption

Thousands of people, including farmers and tourism interests, in Kerry, who are “plagued’’ by a poor public water supply, are demanding an exemption from new water charges until they can be assured of a reliable supply.

The mid-Kerry regional scheme, which includes areas such as Killorglin, Milltown, Glenbeigh, and a large rural hinterland, has had 413 breaks, mainly from pipe bursts, since 2010, Kerry County Council has confirmed.

The cost of repairs, averaging €2,000 per break, is now estimated at more than €800,000.