Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2025
442. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when group water schemes that were unsuccessful in the recent Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026 funding allocation can next expect to apply for measure A6-taking-in-charge of group water schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5932/25]
View answerThe Multi-annual Rural Water Programme to cover the period 2024-2026 was launched early in 2024 and local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding by 12 April, 2024.
Given the large number of applications received, and in order to allow work to begin on projects as soon as possible, it was decided to take a phased approach to funding approval.
I am pleased to say that funding of €47.1m for 256 individual capital projects was announced in November 2024. The projects being funded will improve water services for households throughout rural areas across the country.
Following the announcement, my Department wrote to each local authority providing information on the approach for funding approval.
The applications received under Measure A6 for the taking in charge of Public Group Water Schemes were not part of this first phase of funding announced. These applications are being considered further.
Each local authority has a Rural Water Liaison Officer who is best placed to provide information on specific applications and projects under the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026. The officers can be contacted at the respective local authority offices.
