Water Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 April 2022

Tuesday, 5 April 2022

Ceisteanna (392)

Alan Dillon

Ceist:

392. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent to which group water schemes in receipt of public funds should be required to become companies limited by guarantee in circumstances in which they come under the remit of the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement and in circumstances in which directors are answerable for their actions, therefore considerably strengthening governance practices of existing water scheme co-operatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18277/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Group Water Schemes are community-owned and community-run enterprises. In order to be eligible for support from my Department (as administered by local authorities) Group Water Schemes must meet the general terms and conditions of my Department's funding schemes. In particular schemes must also be, for their enduring operation, properly constituted in a way that recognises the members as the owners of the scheme. Further details can be found on my Department's website at the following link: www.housing.old.gov.ie/water/water-services/rural-water-programme/circular-l218-subsidy-towards-operational-costs-group

In the case of medium sized and larger group water schemes, which are typically regulated schemes under the Drinking Water Regulations, this must be through a legal structure of either a Co-operative or Company Limited by Guarantee in which members are equal shareholders.

In the case of smaller schemes, which are typically exempted schemes under the Drinking Water Regulations, this may be as a Trusteeship, Co-operative or Company Limited by Guarantee.

Currently I have no plans to change the above arrangements.