Donegal Deputy Charlie McConalogue has accused the Government of putting politics before people by refusing to disclose the extent of water charges facing Donegal households.
The Fianna Fáil TD claims the Government is delaying the announcement on water charge amounts in order to salvage votes in the upcoming local and European elections.
“It is disgraceful that Donegal households, who are trying to manage their budgets, are still being left in the dark about the water charges that will kick in from October. This secrecy is completely unnecessary. The only logic for refusing to be upfront with households is that Fine Gael and Labour are afraid it will lose them more votes in May,” said Deputy McConalogue.
“This has become about the Government parties trying to save their own skin and avoid having to answer more questions ahead of polling day on May 23rd. Meanwhile, families across Co Donegal are left unable to work out their household budgets.
“It’s an added insult to Donegal households who will soon be clocking up charges for a completely inadequate water service. Many communities across this county have been plagued by poor water quality and are regularly subjected to boil water notices. How are they expected to pay hefty charges for this poor service?
“Approximately €800 million of taxpayers’ money has been spent on setting up the Government’s new Super Quango Irish Water, paying for exorbitant consultancy fees, staff bonuses and perks, and on installing water meters. Not one cent has been spent on the water system. It’s proof that the Government’s claim about this being all about an improved service is completely bogus.
“Far from upgrading our water supply, the entire focus of the Government and Irish Water has been on setting up a corporate entity to charge people. The only thing that Donegal households are getting in return is charges – not any improvement in service.
“I am calling on Fine Gael and Labour representatives across Co Donegal to start being upfront with people about the charges that are coming down the line. I am also calling on them to ensure that any significant problems with the local water supply are fixed before people are expected to pay for their water,” said Deputy McConalogue.
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