Coalition remains divided over contentious water charges

The Coalition remains in disarray over the introduction of water charges, with members of both parties at odds over whether details will be agreed by next week.

Labour is insisting it will not be rushed into agreeing amounts homeowner must pay, while Fine Gael is insisting a decision will be taken before the local and European elections next month.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said yesterday that he wished the issue of water charges had been dealt with months ago but that the junior Coalition party would not be tied to any deadline.