The trade union IMPACT is calling for a constitutional referendum on protecting our water infrastructure.

The call comes as the new Government begins forming a commission to examine how the service should be paid for into the future.

The discussions were largely to blame for the delay in forming the new minority Fine Gael-led administration.

IMPACT represents some 60,000 workers, 50,000 of those are in the public sector.

It also represents many working for Irish Water.

General-Secretary Shay Cody says a vote should be held first and then allowances created for those who cannot afford to pay for the service.