Water charges and politics

Sir, – Stephen Collins's excellent piece on the water charges fiasco highlights the total disdain the political establishment has for the long-term health of this State ("Water charges to dictate future of Irish politics", Opinion & Analysis, January 26th). Most of our TDs are more concerned about retaining their seats than the provision of a properly funded modern water and sewage system. It is in the long-term national interest that all properties on the state water system are metered, and make some financial contribution to this vital service. It is time for Enda Kenny and Micheál Martin to show their mettle and jointly stand up to the populist movements that literally believe everything falls from the sky! – Yours, etc,

MIKE CORMACK.

Blackrock,

Co Dublin.