The combined Athea, Askeaton, Foynes, Glin and Shangolden Sewerage Scheme is included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 and a Preliminary Report in respect of the scheme has been submitted to my Department. Local authorities were asked in July 2009 to submit an assessment of needs for water and sewerage services to my Department by 23 October 2009. These assessments will form a key input to the development of the 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme, which it is anticipated will be published in early 2010. In conducting their assessments, local authorities have been asked to prioritise schemes and contracts for progression over the coming years based on key environmental and economic criteria. Limerick County Council's Preliminary Report for this scheme will be considered further when the Council's assessment of needs is received taking into account the priority attached to the scheme by the Council.