News

9th April 09
4/9/2009

Fermanagh and South Tyrone Ulster Unionist MLA, Tom Elliott, has expressed his dismay upon learning of the scale of the increase in Northern Ireland Water’s connection charge.

New NI Water Connection Charges “No Laughing Matter” - Elliott

 

Fermanagh and South Tyrone Ulster Unionist MLA, Tom Elliott,  has expressed his dismay upon learning of the scale of the increase in Northern Ireland Water’s connection charge.  The old variable rate which increased to a maximum of around £500 has been replaced with a charge of £882 for connections involving pipe diameters less than 125mm and rising to in excess of £1000 for those involving a greater diameter.

 

In a statement the Ulster Unionist representative said:  “The new rates came into being on 1st April, indeed when I first heard of the scale of the hike I assumed it was the result of some sort of April Fool’s Day joke, however after making inquiries I quickly realised that the figures were in fact correct.  I understand that this change to the connection charge structure corresponds with NI Water assuming responsibility for the opening and reinstating of roads from Roads Service, but this is of little comfort to those expected to pay these greatly increased rates.”

 

“Placing extra burden on those already under the considerable pressure which comes from setting up a new home is no laughing matter particularly at a time of unprecedented pressures on family finances and budgets.  

 

“On an operational level the organisation is currently undergoing significant reorganisation with the supposed aim of becoming more efficient and cost effective, however it has so far only increased pressures on employees by removing local offices and obviously reduced the ability of the public to engage with front line staff thereby annoying its customers.”

 

In conclusion Tom added:  “To introduce such a hike in the connection charge, especially at this time in restructuring and against such an economic backdrop is very difficult to swallow, I would therefore urge that NI Water rethinks the scale of the increase in the connection charge and reduces it significantly.”

 





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