Irish Water could drain Mayo’s resources – McDonnell

Councillors worried Irish Water could drain Mayo’s resources


Ciara Galvin

Fianna FΡil councillor Al McDonnell believes that Irish Water could have ‘major’ implications for Co Mayo, stripping it of income and endangering future investment.
The water services of all 34 local authorities are being brought together as Irish Water, which will act as one national service provider. Ultimately, it will take over responsibility for the delivery of water and wastewater services to homes and businesses.
At last week’s Strategic Policy Committee meeting for planning, economic development and emergency services, Cllr McDonnell said Irish Water will deprive Mayo County Council of 20 percent of its income.
Furthermore, the councillor said that although Irish Water will create 24 Mayo jobs, many of those positions will be filled by people currently employed at Mayo County Council.
Cllr Eugene McCormack (FG) has said that he also believes the water service should not have been taken away from local authorities. He is particularly concerned about what he sees as a ‘lack of flexibility’ at Irish Water.
Cllr McCormack said that if, for example, a major industry were to consider relocating to Co Mayo, the local authority could ensure that the infrastructure it required was put in place. However, he is not confident that Irish Water would be so flexible – which could in turn affect the county’s ability to attract investment and employment.