Irish Water could be forced to hire private contractors to restrict supply for households which refuse to pay charges.

The company is being forced to draw up an easy-pay plan to try and ease public anger over the new charge.

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 has reported 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, The Sunday Business Post reports that council staff will refuse to install water 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 which will not be strong enough to run showers or washing machines.