The average household will pay �115 from April 2006

Rallies against the government's reform of the water service are planned for Belfast and Londonderry on 12 February.

Under plans already announced, the average household would pay �115 from April 2006, rising to �340 in 2008.

Tom Gillen from the Water Coalition, which represents trade unions, community and voluntary groups, said people objected to an "unfair system".

"I don't mind paying for water if I am not paying for the infrastructure, let the government pay for the infrastructure," he said.

"Let us direct that part of our rates which was set aside to support the water service and sewage services and then let us see what else we need which is a just and equitable payment for the services."

Running costs

A spokesperson for the Department of Regional Development said it recognised the public's concerns.

"We realise that the introduction of water charges will present a new burden for households here," she said.

"But we would challenge those opposed to reform to outline how they would fund investment, and the running costs of the service, without taking money from other priority services."

The proposals mean that water charges will be capped at �750, with the lowest household charge about �150.

Charges will apply to all domestic properties, whether owner-occupied or rented, with the costs for water supply and sewerage services indicated separately in bills.