Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2004

Tuesday, 14 December 2004

Questions (386)

Dinny McGinley

Question:

409 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that members of group water schemes (details supplied) in County Donegal are asked to make an individual contribution in excess of €6,000 for a piped water supply; his views on whether it is realistic that families should have to make such an excessive contribution to obtain water, a basic necessity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33542/04]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Grants of up to 85% of cost, subject to a maximum eligible cost of €7,618 per house, are available from local authorities for the provision or extension of group water schemes. While I am keeping the level of group water scheme grants and subsidies under continuing review in consultation with the national rural water monitoring committee and the National Federation of Group Water Schemes, my Department has no proposals for any increases. Responsibility for the operation of the grants scheme is a devolved function of the local authority, in this case, Donegal County Council.