Ulster Unionist MLA Tom Elliott has hit out at a Report by the Environment and Heritage Service, which, if implemented, would mean the introduction of licensing and charging for water abstraction across Northern Ireland.

"This has the potential", he claimed, " to have a very significant financial impact on many industrial and agricultural homes and businesses here".

He said the Report outlined a proposal that, from 1st of July this year, a charge of £135 for a license will be placed upon each home and business that uses water from waterways or underground stratums.

"While this is a one-of fee", he submitted, "each business will then be subject to a calculation so that the EHS can decide upon an annual subsistence fee. I have to ask: why should a farmer who has a river running through his land, or a well on his land have to pay for the water they use from those sources? I just can't see the justification for that. Is it simply going to be an extra burden on an already struggling part of society."

The EHS Report states that the aim of introducing the licenses and charges is to cover the cost of introducing the legislation. The minimum fee that anyone with a license will have to pay will be £30 per year.

However, Mr Elliott said that while he understood the need for the EHS and Department for the Environment to protect our surroundings, 'it is a shame that it has to lead to further costs for the rural community here'.

Mr Elliott, who is the deputy-Chairman of the Assembly's Agricultural Committee went on: "Like most people from a rural background, I have keen interest in looking after our environment. That is why I am disappointed that the Report suggests that part of the cost for protecting our countryside is going to fall on the rural community by the way of license fees and charges, yet, often it is the rural people who are the main protectors of our environment through their love for the countryside."

He urged rural homes and businesses to be aware of what these changes could potentially mean for them. The consultation period for the Report is ongoing from now until the 23rd June. "People must get their opinions across, and the EHS must take these on board," he added.