4 NOVEMBER 2019

ICSA Rural Development chairman Tim Farrell has said he is outraged at the price hikes announced by Irish water that will affect thousands of Irish farmers whose water comes from the public supply. “In some cases, it is forecast that bills will rise by 78%, which is totally unacceptable,” he said.

The new Irish Water pricing structure will come into effect from 1 May 2020 and will impose a fixed base charge for every connection on top of paying for the water used.

“Farmers with fragmented holdings are the ones who will be hurt the most by this. These farmers in particular will be hammered for having multiple connections to service their farms. This is likely to severely impact the sectors with the lowest incomes and the tightest margins, so again, it’s hitting those who can least afford it the most.”

“ICSA sees no reason why farmers should be expected pay charges on top of charges, particularly when those in urban areas have point blank refused to pay for water. A standing charge for each connection on a fragmented holding is excessive in the extreme. There can be no justification for it.”

ENDS