Restaurants plan to charge €1 for tap water if commercial water rates are increased

Plans by the restaurant industry to hit diners with a €1 charge for tap water if commercial water rates are increased have been criticised by Tourism Minister Paschal Donohoe.

The Fine Gael minister said he was against the proposals which restaurant representatives say they have no choice but to impose if their businesses face extra costs.

The changes could see some sole diners next summer slapped with a €1 charge for just a glass of tap water.