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Minister O’Brien announces successful applications under €50M rural water scheme

Minister O’Brien announces successful applications under €50M rural water scheme

Scheme specifically targets Waste Water Collection and Treatment needs for villages and settlements without access to Public Waste Water Services

Clarinbridge, Craughwell, Ramsgrange, Broadford, Cooraclare, Beaufort and Ballygawley applications all successful

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien today (7 December 2023) announced the successful applications under a new funding scheme targeting the waste water collection and treatment needs of villages and settlements without access to public waste water services. The Minister received Government approval to progress with the scheme at Cabinet today.

The scheme is funded by a €50 million commitment under the National Development Plan (NDP) to 2025 and today’s announcement follows the completion of a review of villages and settlements that do not have access to public waste water infrastructure.

Commenting Minister O’Brien said:

“This Government have committed, through the NDP, to support the proportionate growth of rural towns and villages. We absolutely understand the need for balanced regional investment and growth throughout the country and the importance of equitable rural investment.

“As well as that we are extremely conscious of the risks arising from inappropriate waste water treatment infrastructure both to public health and indeed the environment.

“That’s why I am making the announcement today that the villages of Clarinbridge and Craughwell in Co. Galway, Ramsgrange in Co. Wexford, Broadford and Cooraclare in Co. Clare, Beaufort in Co. Kerry and Ballygawley in Co. Sligo will all proceed to funding stage subject to engagement and agreement with the relevant with Local Authority.

“Having visited many of these villages, I acknowledge and greatly appreciate the work of the local communities in campaigning for these facilities.”

ENDS