Domestic water charges were abolished in 1997. Annual Charges levied are for Agricultural and Commercial connections and are used specifically to maintain and improve the water systems. Commercial water charges are levied on all businesses. These are divided into 4 categories depending on the type of business being carried out.
Sligo County Council is now delivering a water metering programme for its non-domestic (business and farming) customers. This programme ensures that consumers will only pay for the water they use, and is therefore more equitable than the old ‘flat’ annual charge which was levied irrespective of usage.
Over 5,600 metres have been installed throughout the county. In addition to introducing a fairer charging system, water metering also helps address the ongoing problem of water leakages.
The water metering project is being undertaken as part of the Government’s ‘Water Services Pricing Policy.’ The new policy will ensure that consumers will enjoy the benefit of a fair and equitable charging system, in that they will only pay for water to they consume.
The charge will only relate to the non-domestic element of the water supply i.e., business, farming, institutions, and all connections not strictly for domestic use. Local Authorities are prohibited by law from charging for a domestic supply. It is government policy that all non-domestic consumers will be metered and charged for water by 2006.
The existing system of charging for water involves a flat rate for each category of connection irrespective of usage. The charge is exactly the same within each category regardless of the amount of water that is actually used.
An important concession under the new arrangement is that water users who have supplies with a domestic element will benefit from a domestic allowance. For example, this will apply in the case of a farmer whose house and land are on the same connection, or where a shop and living accommodation are in one premises.
The Water metering programme is being delivered on behalf of Sligo County Council by Veolia Water (Ireland). Under the terms of the contract, Veolia have responsibility for: