Water Charges 'Inevitable Says Scientist

An Irish expert has said he believes water charges for all are "inevitable" in Ireland as supplies begin to drain.

Professor John Sweeney, Head of the Irish Climate Analysis and Research Unit (ICARUS) at NUI Maynooth, said despite the floods of the past two summers, drier summers are on their way, and could lead to major water shortages.

ICARUS is an Irish research unit that was formed due to a need for research on climate and climate change impacts in Ireland.

The Institute's findings suggest drier conditions and greater demand from a growing population, would make water a "premium product", leading to charges being introduced.

During an interview with an Irish newspaper, Prof Sweeney revealed there was a mismatch between where the majority of the population was located and where supplies were most abundant.

He was reported to have said: "There's a much larger population in the east and most of the rain is in the north and west, and as population increases in the eastern half of the island, it will accentuate the need for water."

At present, there are no official plans for the implementation of water charges for domestic users in Ireland. But the Professor's findings have fuelled speculation of UK style charges in the near future.

(DW)