Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 3

Written Answers. - Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Enda Kenny

Question:

247 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will confirm that no charge is levied upon users of public water schemes in their construction or upgrading; if he will further confirm that users of water from private group water schemes have to make a significant local contribution on construction or upgrading; his views on whether this is equitable and fair; the proposal, if any, he has to rectify the position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3931/00]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey):

The Government's policy framework for the application of the polluter pays principle provides that capital contributions will be sought from all non-domestic users to cover the full cost of the provision of public water and waste water services. In addition, a fee may be levied by the local authority on new domestic connections to the public main.

In the case of private group water schemes the balance of the cost of new or upgrading works in excess of the available grant paid is provided by the group members who own and operate the scheme. A subsidy is also payable towards operational costs incurred by group schemes. The grant and subsidy schemes are under review.