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Those with bowel conditions should get extra water allowance, says councillor
Fears are mounting over inflated cost for sufferers when water charges are introduced in October.
CALLS HAVE BEEN made by a Dublin Councillor for additional water allowance to be made available for those suffering from bowel disease.
Labour Councillor Mick Duff has asked Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government Alan Kelly to introduce an extra water allowance for those suffering from bowel disease.
Speaking to TheJournal.ie, Cllr Duff said:
“People with these conditions, they are already facing a lot of additional costs. For example a pair of men’s boxer shorts that have a facility for allowing the bag, you can’t buy them here. You have to buy them from the US or UK. The are £19 a pair.
I was under the impression when they were looking at these charges that they would have looked at specialised groups. It doesn’t appear that they have.
For those suffering from bowel conditions, the upcoming charges are a concern. Speaking to TheJournal.ie, representative for Ileostomy, Colostomy and Internal Pouch Support Group Cetta Burke, said:
Someone who is going through a bad patch with a high output could some days be having to use bathroom facilities every hour, on the hour.
“We are in the process of putting forward a submission on behalf of the group. We encouraged members to make individual submissions as well.”
Those suffering from bowel conditions are currently not included under the HSE’s long-term illness scheme. Groups currently included in the scheme will have their water charges capped. Among the conditions are multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and cystic fibrosis.
In a statement issued to TheJournal.ie, Irish Water said:
The qualifying conditions will be determined by the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government in consultation with the Minister for Health. Irish Water is currently awaiting a direction on this matter.
Read: Irish Water: It’s not fair to compare us to 25-year-old UK utilities
Opinion: Yes, we should pay water charges – but we should also get an improved service
