Howlin rules out increase in water charges

A senior Government minister has claimed the expected €600m cost to run Irish Water every year will not lead to a hike in charges after 2018 because the economic upturn will ensure that more businesses will open to pay the bill.

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Brendan Howlin denied the significant annual figure — which equates to a massive €15bn over the next 25 years — means a long-suspected fee rise is on the cards.

In a detailed strategic plan document outlining Irish Water’s plans for the next 25 years, the body said it will need €600m a year until 2040.