Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
623. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the multi-annual rural water programme, which was due in Q3 of 2022, will be published; the reason for the delay in publishing this programme, in view of the many rural areas that are awaiting a supply of water; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36449/23]
View answerI can confirm that my Department is in the final stages of completing comprehensive Framework documentation to support the application process for the upcoming Multi-annual Rural Water Programme. Extensive engagement with stakeholders, including a Rural Water Working Group made up of key stakeholders in the Sector, was a valuable and necessary requirement to allow my Department finalise this work.
I expect to receive a submission soon for my consideration setting out the details of each of the funding measures of the programme. Subject to approval, local authorities will then be invited to submit applications for funding for specific priority projects in their areas. An independent Expert Panel, set up for the task, will consider each valid application and make recommendations for funding.
