Disability groups voice fears over charges’ effect on families

The disability sector said they fear people with disabilities and their families will still be penalised by water charges, despite the concessions announced yesterday, while advocacy groups for older people gave the preliminary water charges scheme a cautious welcome.

Inclusion Ireland is seeking further information on how a disabled child or person’s water needs will be calculated as part of the families’ overall water bill.

Under the scheme, people with high water usage due to particular medical conditions will have their bills capped “at the relevant assessed charge”.