Jackie Cahill
Question:51. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details of the increase in septic tank grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53930/23]
View answerThursday, 7 December 2023
Questions (51, 79)
Michael Moynihan
Question:79. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the action he has taken to ensure that more households qualify for the septic tank grants and are supported to upgrade or replace their tank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53971/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 79 together.
According to the latest census data available there are almost 500,000 domestic waste water treatment systems (DWWTS), mostly septic tanks, in Ireland.
Under the Water Services Acts 2007 and 2012, it is the responsibility of the owners to ensure that their DWWTS is fit for purpose, operational and kept in good order. Owners of septic tanks are also responsible for their maintenance and repair.
My Department does provide financial assistance with three dedicated grants available to households in circumstances where works are required to septic tanks to protect human health and the environment.
I recently announced substantial improvements to the terms and conditions of all three grants. I approved the increase of the grant amount available to €12,000 from €5,000 and also made it is easier for households to qualify, removing the requirement to have registered the tank with the local authority.
I want to encourage more householders to seek and avail of the grant and consequently help reduce the risk of environmental impact from defective tanks. The changes are effective from 1 January 2024 and I expect an increase of applications.
Details of the grant schemes are available on my Department’s website at:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/6cc1e-domestic-waste-water-treatment-systems-septic-tanks/