Over threequarters wont pay despite revised water charge proposals

Over 79 percent of people in Westmeath are still opposed to the introduction of water charges - despite moves by the Government last week to cap charges until 2019.

A WestmeathExaminer.ie poll of some 211 people has shown that 79.1 percent will not pay the water charges, and feel that they pay enough taxes already.

Meanwhile, the sample showed that some 20.9 percent feel that the revised charges are fair, and will pay.

The cap on charges, announced by the Government last week, will see bills from Irish Water of €160 for a one-adult household and €260 for all other households, reduced to €60 and €160 respectively after a €100 payment promised by the Government.

However, protests against the Government have intensified this week ahead of an anticipated monster demonstration outside the Dáil on December 10.

On Monday night, Westmeath County Council became the latest local authority to vote for the abolition of Irish Water.

A motion by Fianna Fáil's Cllr Ken Glynn received cross-party support, although protesters present were alarmed at news that Irish Water has contacted the council seeking information about its tenants.