Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
648. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the position regarding the review of the qualifying criteria for well-water grants administered through local authorities; if an instruction can be issued to allow for the inclusion of applications for premises that are soon to be lived in following renovation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12308/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides grant funding to assist households in rural areas that are dependent on a private water supply (individual well) for their household use. The objective of the grant is to provide financial assistance to households dependent on these supplies where capital expenditure is incurred.
The grant scheme is administered by local authorities on behalf of the Department. An applicant may be eligible for a well grant if, in the opinion of the local authority, the house is occupied by the applicant as their normal place of residence.
Each local authority has a Rural Water Liaison Officer who is responsible for the administration of the grant schemes in their area and can be contacted at the Rural Water Section of the relevant local authority to clarify the position in relation to an individual application.
I can confirm that my Department is currently carrying out a review of all matters relating to the grant scheme, including consultation with key stakeholders which will inform the outcome of the review. I expect to receive recommendations for my consideration shortly.
