Environment Minister Phil Hogan has denied that water charges could eventually cost over €1,000 per household.
He was replying to Socialist Party TD Joe Higgins, who accused the Government of being more interested in introducing another local tax rather than conserving water.
“Along with property tax, water charges will increase to over €1,000 per household, an intolerable burden for many families.’’
Mr Hogan accused Mr Higgins of picking figures off the top of his head. “The sum of €1,000 per family is way off the mark and he knows it.’’
When Mr Higgins suggested the figure was very realistic, the Minister insisted it was ridiculous.
“The deputy was wrong about the local property tax figure and the bin charges in the past, and he is wrong now.’’
