BY MICHELE CANNING SMITH

STRABANE Council has pledged its support to the Campaign Against Water Tax group.

Councillors were unanimous in their support for the group which is organising a rally in the town this weekend.

They have also offered the body the assistance of the new Arts Technician.

Ivan Barr, who proposed that Council send a letter of support to the group, said the local authority supports the objectives if the campaign.

"Personally, I feel glad that we have had the opportunity to restate Council policy and pledge support for the rally this weekend.

"Despite Monday's developments, which means that water bills did not come through the doors, people must be mindful that this tax has not and will not go away.

"The Chancellor will make £80 million available this year to offset the loss of revenue for water charges but there was a clear message from economists that this has not and will not go away.

"The task is to ascertain how that revenue will be replicated in the future. As soon as next year the Executive will have to find that £80 million.

"It's as necessary today as it was yesterday to have the campaign against water charges. Delay and postponement, that's exactly what it is. Until the charges are abolished, it would be foolish to think that this is issue has been decided."

Councillor Barr added, "If the deficit to the water service arises from an abject failure from Westminster to make funds available then it is the direct responsibility of the British government.

"The British government should cover the full cost of bringing the infrastructure up to scratch to meet EC requirements. It is neglect by the British government so it should not be up to the ratepayers to pay for it," added Councillor Barr.

'It's as necessary today as it was yesterday to have the campaign.' against water charges. Delay and postponement, that's exactly what it is