After weeks of controversy, promises of clarity from the Government and some intense protests, Alan Kelly outlined changes to the water charges regime yesterday.

Homes with a single adult will have their bills capped at €160 a year - but homes who do not register will be given standard bills of €260 a year.

All water households will also receive water conservation grant of €100.

PPS numbers will no longer be required for registration, and those that were already taken will be destroyed.

Registration with Irish Water extended until February 2nd and water charges will not begin until January of next year.

Mr Kelly says he will draw a line between those who cannot pay, and those who will not.

This morning, Shane Coleman was joined by the Tánaiste Joan Burton who spoke yesterday about the need for the conservation of water.

She also talked to Shane about the protest which took place in Jobstown over the weekend where she was trapped in a car for over two hours while the Gardai tried to calm some demonstrators.

The Tánaiste was slightly injured in the incident: "I was straight back to work."

"I got a bad bang on the back of my neck. I was more concerned for the graduates who were dressed up in their gowns. They were their celebrating a big achievement."

On Paul Murphy's involvement and his continuing protests, she commented: "I don't think Deputy Murphy's agenda is particularly about water."

You can listen to the full interview here:

The Tánaiste also stated that she thought they had a very good fair system: