Sinn Féin MLA Liz has called on the Infrastructure Minister to consider a freeze on water bills for non-domestic customers who are currently affected by the economic impact of Covid-19.

The Newry and Armagh MLA stated:

“The few past weeks I have been contacted by a number of constituents in my area enquiring if there are any plans to freeze water rates for businesses and organisations impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.

“Businesses, farms, charities and community groups are among those who pay non-domestic water charges but the economic effects of COVID-19 has had a negative impact on peoples ability to make payments.   

“Sinn Féin has written to NI Water to inquire into the flexibilities currently available to customers and I have written to the Infrastructure Minister to urge her to consider freezing water bills for non-domestic properties affected by Covid-19 to help provide some breathing space for those hardest hit at this time.

“We need to provide flexibility for those struggling to make payments during this unprecedented period.”