NORTHSIDE residents who prevented Irish Water workers from installing meters this week described their action as a “victory for people power”.
The installation of meters was prevented by protests in Kileely, Thomondgate and other areas of the city including Delmege Park, Moyross. Residents blocked diggers and refused to allow Irish Water workers to install meters.
Describing Irish Water as an absolute disgrace, Kileely resident Kevin McNamara said the company refused to attend community meetings to answer questions, but showed no hesitation to come in with their meters.
“We are told it will be Christmas before the lead pipes are removed, yet they have dozens of workers in putting in meters now. They sneaked into Kileely, and were planning on putting meters in right across the area. However, they were met with opposition and protests, when we stopped their digger, and refused to let them install any more meters.
“The fact that they have packed up and left, and say they will not be coming back any time soon, is proof that people power works,” said Mr McNamara.
Anti Austerity Alliance (AAA) councillor for City North, Cian Prendiville, who joined the protests, claims Irish Water are afraid of serious protest.
“If enough people in a community come together, it is easy to stop their diggers and resist their meters. I’d encourage other communities to show their opposition to the water charges too, by protesting when Irish Water come into their area”.
“This victory in Kileely is an example for others to follow. However, the key battle against water charges is yet to come, and that will be organising mass non-payment of the water bills they are sending out”.
According to Cllr Prendiville, the protests also highlight the huge anger about the ongoing water crisis. He warned that residents are clearly stating that they will not pay water charges, especially given that their water is undrinkable.
He said that he would table a motion at the next Metropolitan District committee meeting of the Council, calling on Irish Water to give an exemption from the water charges and ensure free bottled water is made available at shops and centres in the area and delivered directly to those who can’t collect it.
There was no comment from Irish Water at the time of going to press.
