The government has ordered a review of procedures and communications at Irish Water.

Cabinet decided a review was needed after a litany of controversies concerning the new utility and how its communicating with the public.

Ministers hope the review will be seen as a statement of the need to maximise public trust in Irish Water.

Irish Water was top of the agenda when Ministers meet in Dublin this morning.

The Cabinet were set to discuss the backlash over structure and communications issues at the company - including performance-related bonuses and delays in addressing complaints.

A number of Cabinet Ministers yesterday expressed their concern over the bonus scheme run by Irish Water for its senior management and this morning they’ll have the chance to discuss the system with their colleagues.

It comes as the issue brings more pressure in the Dáil and on the streets with a national demonstration planned for November 1st with members of the Government now fearful that the issue could spiral and become as damaging at the ballot box as the removal of medical cards.

Reports this morning indicate as many as 1 million households are yet to sign up for the charge forcing Irish Water to ask for the registration deadline to be pushed back until the end of November.