Energy regulator must explain water charges

The Dáil’s environment committee must hold an emergency meeting so the regulator responsible for setting water charges can explain his actions, TDs have urged.

With controversy raging over the rates and reduced ‘free’ water allocation allowed for children, the Commissioner for Energy Regulation, Paul McGowan, needs to be questioned before the public consultation on his decisions finishes at the end of August, Fianna Fáil’s Barry Cowen has insisted.

Opposition parties have accused ministers of deliberately choosing August for the process because the Dáil is on a two-month recess, and many people will be distracted by holidays