Irish Water contractors in Drumkeen
VILLAGERS have parked cars and blocked entry points for water meter installers today.
On the second day of protests in Drumkeen, residents last night met to plan their strategy for today.
The work crews arrive at 7am, some of them driving English-registered private vehicles.
Residents of one estate managed to persuade the workers to fill in holes they had earlier dug for meters.
However the meters are being installed again today at homes where residents are away.
The large garda presence yesterday upset some residents who say all their protests have been peaceful.
“We will continue to protest peacefully and we will continue to tell Irish Water where they can stick their meters,” said one resident.
“We are going to get hit with water charges with or without a meter, but it’s the principle for us. We don’t want meters.”
The Government will today unveil a flat rate of €160 per family for water charges; making the installation of meters almost pointless.
There will also be a law preventing large increases in charges in the future.
However the changes – a bid by Fine Gael/Labour to quell growing public anger – may still not be enough for most people.
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