Council officials criticise Roche’s stance on water charges

The body representing top officials in Ireland's local councils has criticised Minister for the Environment Dick Roche for ruling out the reintroduction of water charges.

The measure was recommended in a review published by Mr Roche today.

However, the minister said it would not be implemented as the Government was vehemently opposed to new local charges.

The County and City Managers' Association has criticised Mr Roche's stance, saying all households should have to pay for water supplies as it costs money to provide such a service.

"Ireland, I believe, is the only OECD country where people get unlimited amounts of water free of charge," spokesman Eddie Sheehy said.

"This results in wastage and I think people don't appreciate that water is a very valuable commodity.

"We believe that such additional funding raised in this way would enable local authorities to provide better and more effective and efficient services."