The regulator of the public water system has advertised for applications from the public to become members of the Public Water Forum.
The forum is to be an independent body representing the interests of water consumers and a variety of sectoral organisations in the development of public water policy.
This public water forum aims to ensure that in future the views of the public are taken on board by Irish Water and the Commission for Energy Regulation.
It is to be a vital component feeding directly into the activities and work of both organisations.
Its purpose is to represent all water consumers including those who are not registered with Irish Water.
It is to provide feedback and comments in relation to the performance of Irish Water as well as to the development of water and waste water policy.
Up to 20 members of the public are to be appointed as well as 12 members representing various social partner type sectors.
The forum is being chaired by Dr Tom Collins, who is currently the Chair of the Dublin Institute of Technology.
He has said it will provide a place where different views about Irish Water can be aired and listened to with respect.
Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Dr Collins said pricing will be one of the first issues the body will discuss.
However, he said the forum will not have any formal powers and will not be able to compel Irish Water to do anything.
He said the forum’s main function is to provide a vehicle for the expression of different views regarding the management of water.
A memorandum of understanding will be signed by the watchdog as well as Irish Water and the Commission for Energy Regulation.
The document will set out how the forum expects both bodies to react to proposals and submissions.
Annual reports will be published, where proposals will be set out.
The forum will then audit the extent to which the proposals are accepted or rejected.
