I propose to take Questions Nos. 438, 448 and 449 together.
I recently announced my intention to introduce a grant scheme to provide financial assistance to households whose septic tanks and other domestic wastewater treatment systems require remediation or upgrading following inspection under the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012. I am making provision for the scheme in my Department’s Vote for 2013. The scheme will apply to treatment systems which have been registered by the due date of 1 February 2013 and which are deemed to require remediation having failed an inspection carried out under the 2012 Act. The grant payable will depend on the cost of the work necessary and the income of the household concerned, and the scheme will provide a higher level of support to households on lower incomes. Full details of the scheme will be set out in regulations which I will make in advance of inspections commencing this year. The Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 provides that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will make a National Inspection Plan for domestic wastewater treatment systems. The judgment of the European Court of Justice highlighted in particular that the National Inspection Plan has not yet been developed. I understand that the Plan is very close to being finalised by the Agency . My Department will continue to liaise with the European Commission to ensure full compliance with our obligations.