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03/07/2003
Minister stands firm on water reforms
Minister of State John Spellar has told those opposed to the introduction of water charges in Northern Ireland they are fighting a losing battle.
The Minister took his stance after he revealed that nearly 90 organisations and almost 700 members of the public have submitted responses to the Water Reform consultation process.
The feedback on the first phase of public consultation for the reform of water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland, which closed on 20 June, has been one of the largest ever responses to any local consultation process.
Commenting on the response as well as those opposed to such changes, the Minister said: “Responses have come from a wide variety of organisations representing political, business, community, commercial and agricultural interests and members of the public.
“I also fully acknowledge the concerns and challenges raised by Water Reform. However, the status quo is not an option. We need reform to ensure that the people of Northern Ireland enjoy the benefits of a water and sewerage system that meets the highest standards without having to divert resources from other public services such as health and education. I think these are objectives on which all can unite.”
The public consultation on the 'Reform of Water and Sewerage Services in Northern Ireland' sought views on a number of issues including the basis on which water charges should be set; how best to protect the consumer within a charging regime; and the most effective business model for the delivery of water and sewerage services.
However, many people across Northern Ireland feel the introduction of charges are unnecessary.
A delegation from the Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU) have already met with Prime Minister Tony Blair to argue their case against water charges in the province.
They believe such measures could result in a loss of a many as 600 jobs if current proposals are introduced.
The Government argue that once fully introduced, water charges will enable an extra £300 million to be pumped into public services every year.
(MB)
The Minister took his stance after he revealed that nearly 90 organisations and almost 700 members of the public have submitted responses to the Water Reform consultation process.
The feedback on the first phase of public consultation for the reform of water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland, which closed on 20 June, has been one of the largest ever responses to any local consultation process.
Commenting on the response as well as those opposed to such changes, the Minister said: “Responses have come from a wide variety of organisations representing political, business, community, commercial and agricultural interests and members of the public.
“I also fully acknowledge the concerns and challenges raised by Water Reform. However, the status quo is not an option. We need reform to ensure that the people of Northern Ireland enjoy the benefits of a water and sewerage system that meets the highest standards without having to divert resources from other public services such as health and education. I think these are objectives on which all can unite.”
The public consultation on the 'Reform of Water and Sewerage Services in Northern Ireland' sought views on a number of issues including the basis on which water charges should be set; how best to protect the consumer within a charging regime; and the most effective business model for the delivery of water and sewerage services.
However, many people across Northern Ireland feel the introduction of charges are unnecessary.
A delegation from the Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU) have already met with Prime Minister Tony Blair to argue their case against water charges in the province.
They believe such measures could result in a loss of a many as 600 jobs if current proposals are introduced.
The Government argue that once fully introduced, water charges will enable an extra £300 million to be pumped into public services every year.
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A cloudy day with a little light rain or drizzle at times, but some spells of drier weather too. The north coast may become somewhat brighter later this afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Cloudy and patchy light rain will slowly clear away this evening. Then the rest of the night will be dry with broken cloud. Westerly winds freshening in the early hours. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
