Northern Ireland's Regional Development Minister has sacked half of the board of Northern Ireland Water following an investigation into contractual practices at the body.
Conor Murphy said he took the decision to dismiss the Chairman of the body and three other board members, because 'there had been a serious breakdown in governance ...in relation to contract approvals'.
Northern Ireland Water, which was set up in 2007 to replace the Water Service, is responsible for providing water supplies and sewerage.
It was to have overseen the introduction of direct household water charges, however this move has since been deferred by MLAs.
In a statement, Mr Murphy indicated that he will 'take firm action to fully address the recommendations within the report'.
The current Chief Executive of NIW responded by pledging to take 'extremely seriously' his responsibility to ensuring that the problems within the body are 'addressed as a matter of urgency'.
Reassuring customers that there would be no effect on water services, he pledged to report back to the Minister on the issue.
