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1. Without prejudice to Article 9 of Directive 2000/60/EC and to the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, whilst taking into account the local, regional and cultural perspectives and circumstances for water distribution, Member States shall take the necessary measures to improve or maintain access to water intended for human consumption for all, in particular for vulnerable and marginalised groups, as defined by the Member States. For that purpose, Member States shall:

(a) identify people without access, or with limited access, to water intended for human consumption, including vulnerable and marginalised groups, and reasons for such lack of access;

(b) assess possibilities for improving access for such people;

(c) inform such people about possibilities for connecting to the distribution network or about alternative means of having access to water intended for human consumption; and (d) take measures that they consider necessary and appropriate to ensure that there is access to water intended for human consumption for vulnerable and marginalised groups.

2. In order to promote the use of tap water intended for human consumption, Member States shall ensure that outdoor and indoor equipment is set up in public spaces, where technically feasible, in a manner that is proportionate to the need for such measures and taking into account specific local conditions, such as climate and geography. Member States may also take the following measures to promote the use of tap water intended for human consumption:

(a) raising awareness of the nearest outdoor or indoor equipment;

(b) launching campaigns to inform citizens about the quality of such water;

(c) encouraging the provision of such water in public administrations and public buildings;

(d) encouraging the provision of such water, for free or for a low service fee, for customers in restaurants, canteens and catering services.

3. Member States shall ensure that the necessary assistance, as defined by the Member States, for competent authorities is facilitated in order to implement the measures referred to in this Article.