Shaun Harkin calls on Executive to rule out water charges

The COVID-19 emergency has put further pressure on NI Water’s finances. Prior to the pandemic Dr. Stephen Blockwell, Head of Investment Management, had told Derry City & Strabane District Environment & Regeneration Committee it was significantly underfunded for the 2021 to 2027 period.

Colr. Harkin said: “We already pay for water through rates. We need alternative thinking to target and raise additional funding. Rich corporations and elites should fund a COVID-19 Wealth Tax.

Many workers have already lost their source of income. It is not only unjust to expect communities who’ll suffer recession the most to pay more, it is impractical.”