Irish Water bills must be paid, says Micheál Martin

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has said people should still pay their latest Irish Water bill and that those who have paid will not be refunded, despite confirming the controversial charges will be suspended in six weeks.

The opposition leader took the unpopular position as Fine Gael’s acting Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney said his party should tell constituents to contact Mr Martin to find out why they are paying money despite the service continuing.

Speaking to reporters last night after a four-hour meeting with his TDs and senators to discuss confirmation of the parties’ long-awaited government formation deal, Mr Martin repeatedly said it is his view that people who have yet to pay their first three water bills must address their debt to the State.