It looks as if Irish Water could be forced to hire private contractors to restrict supply for households that do not pay their charges.

And the company is being forced to draw up an easy pay plan to try and ease public anger over water charges.

There have been angry scenes as contractors try and install water meters across the country and demonstrations against water charges, with another national protest planned for next weekend.

The Sunday Independent reports that the Government has now instructed Irish Water to draw up an easy pay plan as an alternative to quarterly bills, as the coalition tries to calm public anger.

Meanwhile, council workers have said they will not install restrictors at homes which do not pay, meaning the utility company will be forced to bring in outside contractors.

Irish Water has said supply for homes which do not pay will be reduced to a trickle, to allow for drinking water, but will not be strong enough to run showers or washing machines.