Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2020
1202. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if Donegal County Council is one of the 19 authorities which have made an application under the programme for support relating to the taking in charge of housing estates; if the expert panel has made its recommendations on the suitability of projects under the programme for support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2984/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn July 2019 my Department launched the multi-annual Developer Provided Water Services Infrastructure Resolution Programme 2019-2021. Bids were sought from local authorities for funding under the programme. The closing date for bids was 18 September 2019. A total number of 19 local authorities with Developer Provided Water Services Infrastructure in estates in their areas made applications for funding.
Donegal County Council has made 45 applications to my Department under the new programme.
My Department has completed a preliminary evaluation and clarification process on the bids received from the local authorities. The Expert Panel, which includes Departmental, stakeholder and independent representation in the Chair, has been appointed. The Panel will have its first meeting on 19 March 2020 and further meetings as necessary will follow.
The Expert Panel will make recommendations to me on the suitability of projects for funding under the programme. This will be based on criteria set out in the Framework document issued to local authorities when requesting proposals. The Panel will report to my Department when their examination of the bids is concluded. I expect to be in a position to make an announcement on approvals and allocations once that process is concluded and has been considered in Q2 2020.
