Water charges for many businesses are set to double after the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) lifted its Covid-related suspension of new national rates. The new charges come as many small businesses are only starting to get back on their feet after a year-and-a-half of Covid restrictions. “Effectively, small businesses are seen as the soft touch for extracting cash by utilities. Irish Water said businesses due to get increases of more than €250 can avail of transition arrangements that gradually raise prices over three years. Not all businesses are facing an increase in water costs, as 46pc were already paying more than the new standardised tariff and will see reductions in their charges.

Source: Irish Independent August 18, 2021 01:30 UTC