Westmeath county manager Danny McLoughlin.

Westmeath County Council has thanked the people who have paid the Household Charge, and said it is encouraged by the number who have paid to date.

With the national collection figure at over 50%, county manager Daniel McLoughlin highlighted the importance of the collection of the €100 charge for the maintenance of essential public services in this county.

He requested those liable who have not paid the charge to do so as soon as possible.

"The €100 Household Charge provides part of the finance for the Local Government Fund, which is worth €16m to Westmeath County Council this year," said Mr McLoughlin.

"The collection of the charge is critical to enable this council to continue to provide essential services, including fire and emergency, roads, water, housing, parks, libraries and our arts programme

"Your support for your county is essential and appreciated. The unfortunate reality now is that we need this money to continue providing vital local services and it is money the government has made clear it does not have to give us."

With penalties and interest the charge payable will be €111 until the end of April and will continue to rise.

Pay the charge and penalties due at www.householdcharge.ie; post an application form to PO Box 12168, Dublin 1 or at Westmeath County Council during normal opening hours.

www.householdcharge.ie

LoCall 1890 357357