John Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It might not have been raised because there are other priorities within a utility of that size and smaller water and wastewater infrastructure schemes are not the top priority. That is the reason we have established the small towns and villages growth programme. If Part 8 could specifically be used in that context, it would enable us to be able to get on site quicker with housing developments. The areas to which I refer need our support because we want to be able to develop sustainable communities in rural areas to support the pub, post office and local school. It is an inhibiting factor at present. It was said last week it could allow developers to get on site 12 months in advance of the estimated delivery time of a project. We must do anything we can to assist in that regard. Many planning applications in rural areas throughout the country have planning currently but cannot commence. I cite as an example in my own local authority area Lemybrien in County Waterford. I urge the witnesses to take that up. Even if it is not being requested by Irish Water, the Department should take a proactive approach and do something regarding the provision of Part 8.