Sinn Féin Deputy 'Won't Pay' Water Charges

Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald has said she will not be paying the newly-introduced and controversial water charges.

The Dublin TD made the announcement while appearing on RTÉ's The Week in Politics programme on Sunday.

The Sinn Féin Deputy made the comments the day after nation-wide protests that saw tens of thousands of people take part in about 100 separate demonstrations in towns and cities across Ireland

The water charges are being justified by the Irish government as part of a scheme to re-pay the international financial bailout the state opted for in 2010.

RTÉ said over 120,000 people attended demonstrations throughout the day.

"Sinn Féin has long stated our position on water charges, which is to support everybody," Mary Lou McDonald said.

"We support people's right to make their own decisions. We will stand alongside families and campaign groups regardless of their position.

"Sinn Féin have always said that each individual person and family must make up their own mind. There are many people who simply can't afford to pay the water charges.

"Sinn Féin have campaigned long and hard against the water charges. We have stopped water charges in the North and we are totally opposed to the Government introducing water charges here. The only thing that can reverse this charge is a change in legislation. This is something that Sinn Féin are committed to setting in motion if in Governemnt."

The Sinn Féin Deputy said she "commended the huge turnout" at Saturday's protests.

"The Government are not listening. They don't understand quite how serious this situation is. So as a mark of solidarity I have decided not to pay the water charges," she continued.

(IT/CD)