Why go with an "IC" system? Use an ion exchange column on a conventional HPLC. We use a Hamilton column, but there are others that work. We use both a UV detector (indirect IC) and a conductivity detector in non-suppressed mode. Sensitivity is around 0.05 to 0.1 mg/L for the major anions with a 20 uL injection.
If you are using a HPLC for ion chromatography you don't use alkali. You use organic salts (for example, benzenesulfonates) so there is no damage to the plumbing in your HPLC.
I have just come across your post of November 2013.
It may be too late for you, but I would like to help others in similar situations.
There is the IonQuest brand of high quality, high sensitivity, easy to use, ion chromatography systems and instrumentation. http://www.cecilinstruments.com/ionquest-1.html