Mixed reaction to septic tank charge cut

There has been mixed reaction to the Environment Minister Phil Hogan's announcement last night that new septic tank charges are to be cut.

Mr Hogan has revealed that the registration fee for septic tanks will be reduced to €5, for the first three months, down from the proposed €50.

The move is an attempt to reward those who register early, from this June.

The deadline for registration is March 2013.

Opposition parties have accused the Minister of missing the point, saying the inspection fee is not the biggest worry for rural dwellers, but the inspection process itself.

However, Irish Farmer's Association President, John Bryan, has broadly welcomed the announcement.