A refuse collection charge is to be introduced in Waterford after city councillors voted last night to adopt the 2000 estimates in a heated two-hour meeting.
The proposal was carried by eight votes to seven after the city manager, Mr Eddie Breen, said he would privatise the service if the £2 collection charge was not approved.
"The reality is we cannot continue to provide a free service to the householders of Waterford city," he said.