The chairman of the Water and Sewerage Authority insists there is no alternative to the so-called toilet tax.
A petition opposing its planned introduction in April has attracted thousands of signatures since it was launched on Saturday.
John Houghton MHK says the £50 per-household charge may be unwelcome, but is absolutely necessary to cover the cost of sewage disposal.
Mr Houghton says he regrets having to introduce an unpopular additional cost for hard-pressed Island residents:
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Tynwald approves changes to sitting schedule, including half-term breaks and revised start dates
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It follows the death of two young people in the UK
Bus dispute ‘a considerable way apart’ as talks continue, says infrastructure minister
Tim Crookall optimistic progress is possible despite ongoing strike action and disagreements over contracts and pay structure
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The health minister's been responding to an urgent Tynwald question