TAKING water charges directly from people’s wages or social welfare payments has been described as “a step too far that would cause greater hardship for those on the margins”.
Limerick Sinn Féin Councillor Maurice Quinlivan made the comments as the Cabinet met this week to discuss the move.
“Many people simply do not have the means to pay this unjust charge. That is the reality to which Fine Gael and the Labour Party seem oblivious. It is abhorrent that this detached government is seriously considering taking unpaid water charges directly from the wages and social protection payments of people who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“This will create a greater level of uncertainty and stress in hard-pressed households throughout Limerick. The right to water is one of the most basic of human rights. It is frightening what this Government is prepared to consider in order to ensure that ordinary people pay this charge,” the City North councillor remarked.
“Instead of jailing people, the Government is discussing the idea of putting their hands directly into the pockets of people who cannot afford to give any more,” he added.
Cllr Quinlivan has also urged those opposed to water charges to continue to protest.
“Thousands of people have demonstrated their opposition to water charges at various protests over the last number of months. These protests need to continue.
“Sinn Féin will continue to support the Right 2 Water movement while in opposition. In Government, this party will abolish water charges”, he remarked.
