Irish Water says figures showing less than half of households have paid their water charge are 'in line with expectations'.
The utility has collected 30-point-5 million euro of the 66-point-8 million it issued in bills over the first three months of the year.
Irish Water spokesperson Elizabeth Arnett says that represents a 'solid start' - because no reminders or sanctions have been issued to those who haven't paid.
Opponents of the charge say the figures show their campaign is working.
Irish Water's Elizabeth Arnett says the payment rate meets the company's expectations.
