A loophole in the law that would have allowed ministers to escape paying water charges on their second homes is to be closed by government.

The 1997 Taxes and Consolidation Act could be used to allow all members of the Cabinet, and junior ministers, to escape the charge.

Anyone with a second home or non principal residence is liable for a flat charge of €125 a year and Revenue confirmed ministers would be exempt.

But legislation is now to be brought forward to amend the law.

However ministers will still be able to claim other utility bills on second homes as an expense.