Enda Kenny ‘has strong aversion to passing illegal law’ on water charges

Enda Kenny has effectively ruled out passing any legislation scrapping the water charges regime, saying he has a “strong aversion” to introducing a law that he has been told would be “illegal”.

The Taoiseach outlined the position as he was accused by the opposition of failing to “respect the wishes of the people” and of allowing Housing Minister Simon Coveney to “inappropriately” interfere in the Oireachtas water committee’s work.

Speaking during leaders questions, Mr Kenny was repeatedly questioned by Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald over whether he will back plans to scrap charges if this is the recommendation of the committee.