Taoiseach and Kenny clash over flat-rate water charges

THE TAOISEACH and the Fine Gael leader traded insults on the Government’s possible introduction of flat-rate water charges.

Enda Kenny said a media report had suggested that the introduction of the charges might happen in the December budget following a Department of Finance briefing. This was in complete contradiction to the public statements by Minister for the Environment John Gormley on a number of occasions.

“Therefore, in the interests of the 1.8 million householders out there . . . to give certainty to this . . . can I ask the Taoiseach to confirm that there will not be the introduction of flat-rate water charges in the December budget?’’

Brian Cowen said: “We have not even begun budget discussions yet.’’

Mr Kenny said the Taoiseach’s answer was typical of what was wrong with the Government: “You cannot believe a word out of your mouth.’’

He claimed the Taoiseach was refusing to rule out the introduction of the charges, despite comments made by the Minister for the Environment.

He added that the renewed programme for government made the Government’s intentions very clear. It intended “to introduce charging for treated water use that is fair, significantly reduces waste and is easily applied’’.

The programme had pledged it would be based on a system where households were allocated a free basic allowance, with charging only for water use in excess of that allowance.

“I want to know from the Taoiseach why you are not in a position to honour the pledge and the commitment given in your own programme for government.’’

Mr Kenny said the flat-rate system of water charges was “unfair, inequitable and is not environmentally sound, with the poor paying the same as the rich’’. Fine Gael would oppose such a scheme.

Mr Cowen said: “I know exactly what is in the programme for government and that is what informs Government policy.’’

Mr Cowen added: “The question that was asked of me, yes or no . . . a very strong new persona of the leader of Fine Gael. Yes or no? Tell me now what is in the budget? Can’t do it, sir.’’