Chris Hazzard, Minister for Infrastructure in the Northern Ireland Assembly, has instructed NI Water to cease any further installation of water meters in domestic properties while legislation is brought to the Assembly.
Regulations are now required to be brought to the Assembly before the installation of water meters in domestic properties can be stopped completely. The Minister has confirmed this will be done as soon as possible.
Chris Hazzard said:
"I have instructed NI Water not to install any more water meters at domestic properties in the north. In the current financial climate, the continued waste of public money to install meters which will not be used cannot continue."
"Regulations are currently being drafted and consultation on these is legally required. Meanwhile I have instructed NI Water to cease this work immediately."
"My officials will now begin consultation on the draft regulations so there is no further delay in dealing with this issue. Regulations will be brought to the Assembly after the summer recess."
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