We need delivery to let us scrap unfair water charges for good

11.40.13am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 27th Mar 2007

Strangford Alliance MLA Kieran McCarthy

Strangford Alliance MLA Kieran McCarthy has said that yesterday's momentous events must be followed up with delivery on May 8 to ensure that people do not have to face unfair water charges as they stand. Following yesterday's deal between the DUP and Sinn Fein, water bills have been deferred.

Kieran McCarthy MLA said: "Yesterday's events have only given people temporary respite from these unfair water charges.

"Yesterday's promises must be delivered on so that we can make our own decisions from 8 May. Water charges have not disappeared, they will come back to haunt us unless we see devolution in 6 weeks time.

"We must tackle this issue head-on, not simply ignore it because the charges have been delayed.

"We need to put in place a fair system based on consumption, which will create incentives for people to be environmentally friendly. We cannot afford to lose all the progress which has been made. Local people deserve a brighter future with Northern Ireland making its own decisions."

ENDS