Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2013
370. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he is concerned that the first thing that will greet arriving tourists in Shannon Airport is a strong smell that has been attributed to the sewerage infrastructure in the town, following a preliminary investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42266/13]
View answer400. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if funding will be made available to upgrade the sewerage treatment system in Shannon following preliminary investigations by the Environmental Protection Agency which attribute the smells in the town to its sewerage infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42264/13]
View answer402. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding funding of the upgrading of the Shannon town sewerage scheme, both treatment plant and pipe network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42288/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 370, 400 and 402 together.
The Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2013 provides for the development of a comprehensive range of new water services infrastructure in County Clare. The Programme includes contracts under construction and to commence to the value of some €41 million in County Clare during the period of the Programme. The Shannon Sewerage Scheme is included in the Programme as a scheme at planning.
In July 2012, I approved the commitment of the necessary capital funding of just over €1 million to allow Clare County Council complete the tender formalities with the successful tenderer in respect of an Advance Mechanical and Electrical Contract to upgrade four Pumping Stations on the scheme. I understand from the Council that work will commence on the advance works contract in the near future. In October 2012, my Department wrote to Clare County Council informing the Council that the Preliminary Report for the Shannon Sewerage Scheme was not approved and that the Council should address issues in relation to the Report as set out by my Department. The Council’s response is currently awaited. I understand that Clare County Council and the Environmental Protection Agency are working to identify the cause of the odour referred to in Questions Nos. 370 and 400, which will determine any remedial action required.
