Water charges rally mobilisation for 11 October in Dublin

TRADE UNIONS and political parties today announced plans for a major demonstration in Dublin on 11 October against the unfair and unwanted water charges.

Taking part in the launch of the 'Right2Water' campaign were representatives of Mandate and Unite trade unions, Sinn Féin, People Before Profit, the Socialist Party and Independent politicians.

Speaking at the event in Buswells Hotel, Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Daithí Doolan said:

"Sinn Féin opposes water charges. We believe the Right2Water campaign will be essential to overturning these charges. It is an important coalition of forces including trade unions, political parties and campaign groups."

The Ballyfermot/Drimnagh councillor said water charges are a regressive tax and would impact low-income families the most:

"The lone parent and pensioner will pay the same as the Taoiseach and the millionaire. This is wrong and must be resisted," he said.

Calling on the public to support the national march which begins at the Garden of Remembrance in Dublin at 2pm on 11 October, he said:

"Everyone who opposes this charge should join with us on the march. 

"If people have meters or not – they should be on the march. 

"If people decided to return their Irish Water forms or not – they should be on the march.

"If people decide to pay or not to pay – they should be on the march."