European officials are warning the coalition that the new water charges could result in a return to austerity.

The reduced rate of charges is reported to have come as a surprise to the Troika, who are concerned about Ireland's ability to repay debts.

While the Troika officially left town once Ireland exited the bailout programme - as long as the State still owes money, it's a regular host to officials from the EU, the European Central Bank and the IMF.

A delegation of these visitors is about to conclude a week-long inspection of the Government's affairs, and has expressed concern about the new, scaled down water charges.

The flat rate  which replaced the metered rate, took officials by surprise as did the scale of the public backlash.

Concern is also expressed about whether Irish Water's spending can be kept off the books - which is essential, if the coalition is to make fiscal targets.

If the utility can't raise half its revenue from charging the public, it will fail the test, meaning the State could miss its deficit target next year.