Labour TD’s pledge on Irish Water a clear attempt to mislead electorate – Matt Carthy MEP

Sinn Féin MEP for the Midlands North West and Director of Elections Matt Carthy has stated that the actions of some Labour TDs in signing the SIPTU pledge on a referendum to ensure that Irish Water remains in public ownership will do nothing to restore the trust of the Irish people.

Speaking in advance of a series of demonstrations planned across the state this Saturday, Carthy said:

“I am sure the Irish people will remember the “pledge” made by Labour TD Ruairí Quinn four days out from election 2011 in relation to student fees.

“Similarly, in its 2011 election manifesto, Labour argued against the introduction of Water Charges on the basis that it did not address the needs of people with poor water supply.

“A Sinn Féin Private Member’s Bill in 2014 which sought to enshrine in the constitution the right of the people to the retention of water services and infrastructure in public ownership was voted down by the very TDs who have signed this pledge.

“The hypocrisy and sheer brass neck of Labour TDs lining up to “pledge” their commitment to a referendum on the public ownership on Irish Water is truly sickening.

“But in the words of Pat Rabitte – isn’t that what you tend to do during an election?

“It is clear that only a Sinn Féin led Government can be trusted to abolish water charges and dismantle Irish Water.

“This stunt, a pathetic attempt to mislead the electorate, demonstrates that the Right2Water Campaign is succeeding – the pressure is mounting on Government TDs to account to the people on this issue.

“I am calling on all those who are opposed to the introduction of water charges to attend their local demonstration on Saturdayand send a clear message to this Government – your days in office are numbered.”