A former Mayor of Clare has hit out at Irish Water's plans to reduce its staff numbers here.
There are currently over 130 full-time positions as part of a service level agreement between the local authority and the controversial state utility.
This is five less than in 2005, despite a significant change in work practices.
Now, Irish Water is seeking a 4% reduction in staff numbers this year, with a further drop expected to be sought next year, and Councillor Christy Curtin fears this will hurt the quality of the local water service.
Seperately the future of Irish Water and water charges is expected to be discussed by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil during coalition talks today.
According to reports, optimism was expressed by several sources last night that the various strands of talks are nearing conclusion.
Yesterday, president Michael D. Higgins spoke out about the ongoing political stalemate – saying he hopes the result will be 'to the benefit of the Irish people'.
