Ministers refuse to apologise for debacle

Ministers have refused to apologise for the chaotic launch of Irish Water despite its head, John Tierney, finally saying sorry for the mess.

It came as Environment Minister Alan Kelly also made it clear the option of a referendum ensuring water was kept in public ownership was viable.

Mr Tierney, the utility’s managing director, who has come under heavy for the way he has managed the semi-state and its bonus culture, admitted mistakes as the Government signalled retreat on a number of fronts in the face of mass street protests.