Vol. 474 No. 8
84 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for the Environment the number of staff responsible for the administration of the group water schemes and small sewerage schemes in his Department; and the estimated number which will be necessary in the local authorities for this work. [4113/97]
Seven inspectors and the equivalent of four full-time administrative staff are currently assigned to group schemes. Administrative and technical staffing input is significantly lower in the case of small schemes and would amount to one full-time staff equivalent.
It will be a matter for each local authority to determine how best the devolved functions can be integrated with the administration of its existing water and sewerage services. It is unlikely, however, that the devolution proposals will have any significant impact on staffing requirements in individual local authority areas.
85 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for the Environment the estimated cost of upgrading all group water schemes to European Union standards. [4114/97]
86 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for the Environment the allocation to each local authority for 1997 from the funds available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4115/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 86 together.
My Department is proceeding with the devolution to local authorities of full responsibility for the administration of grants for group water and sewerage schemes and for small public schemes. There is no reliable estimate at this stage of the cost of upgrading all deficient group water supplies to recognised standards. Managers are being consulted in working out the detailed arrangements for the implementation of the devolution measures which will be put into full effect as soon as possible. I am not yet in a position to decide the financial allocations to individual local authorities for 1997 in respect of group schemes, but these will reflect, among other things, existing commitments on foot of approvals already issued by my Department.
