Water Charges Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2014

Tuesday, 17 June 2014

Questions (460)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

460. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has given consideration to the likely impact of the introduction of water charges on residents associations and community groups, who maintain floral displays and green areas, due to the cost which will be involved in watering such areas; in order that such important local efforts are not discouraged or curtailed; if he will introduce a small grant scheme for water harvesting equipment for such groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25736/14]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

I am fully supportive of technologies which contribute to the conservation of water. Rainwater harvesting has the potential to benefit the environment and contribute to reducing the cost of water services for certain uses including domestic gardening and other horticultural and agricultural activities. However, the introduction of a grants scheme for any purpose must be managed within current budgetary constraints and, insofar as the funds administered by my Department are concerned, there are currently no plans to introduce a scheme for the installation of rainwater harvesting systems.

Question No. 461 answered with Question No. 431.