Howlin says water costs will not drop, despite Siptu calls

Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin has said he does not envisage reducing the costs of water for households anymore despite demands from Siptu.

Mr Howlin also said he expects to engage with new pay talks with the public sector workers soon, with a goal to hammering out a deal before the next budget.

Speaking at Labour’s conference in Kerry, he responded to calls by Siptu president Jack O’Connor for a rise in the conservation grant for homes so their water is free.