With the introduction of the controversial water charges for schools, the Government levied a flat rate of €3 per pupil in 2007, increasing to €3.50 in 2008 and to €4 in 2009. The charge was to be administered by local authorities.

But Kerry County Council finance director John O’Connor said the actual cost of providing water in some schools was about €20 per pupil. There was, he said, a “shocking waste of water” in some cases. 

The exceptionally high levels of water usage have been uncovered following the installation of water metres in schools by some councils. The Department of Education and Science plans to work with schools on conservation methods to curb excessive consumption. (Source: Irish Examiner)