The Environment Minister Alan Kelly says he cannot comment on reports that just over 50% of people have paid their second water bill.

But Mr Kelly says it appears that over two-thirds of Irish people are paying for their water in one form or another.

He says he is pleased that a majority of Irish people now seem to understand the need for water charges to help improve the water system.

Irish Water says just over half people have now paid their bill.

Early figures from the first billing cycle of January to March put the compliance rate at 43%.

That figure has now risen to 51%.

The company is still sending out bills that cover water usage between April and June.