Water charges of €600 unjust for one family

On arriving home from holidays in late July, we found a newly-installed water meter. I took an immediate reading: 10 litres, which accounted for one or two toilet flushes. A fortnight later we had used 5,800 litres. A quick calculation means we will use 150,800 litres per year. We have three teenagers.

Taking into account the three allowances recently announced, we will have to pay for 80,000 litres of water, at a cost of €400. How does this compare to the ‘average’ of €278? But it will get worse. Our eldest son is starting university and the other two will, hopefully, do likewise in two years’ time. Therefore, there will be five adults residing in our house, three of whom will not be working. Our water charge will be €600. You might suggest implementing ways of cutting down on usage. Well, I have.

The capacity of all toilet cisterns has been reduced, our children have been brought up on Barney’s “never let the water run“ maxim, the dishwasher is always filled to maximum capacity, and the washing machine is new and uses the minimum amount of water. We do have the usual problem with showers.

I agree that water, as a resource, should be paid for and there have been no protests in our area. But these charges are simply not fair. I feel that people are being deliberately misled about what they will pay and that the charges are being rolled out regardless of the consultation process. Water is a necessity and it does not seem just that it should cost even more than the property tax.

Albert Woods

6 Manor Rise

Thornbury Heights

Rochestown

Cork