Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind the Deputy that since 1997 local authorities have devolved responsibility in drawing up the list of areas they wish to have considered for funding. They can actually target some funding themselves in consultation with the Department. I realise the areas about which the Deputy is talking have a particular issue in getting a local contribution. The €6,475 per house might not be enough to make a scheme viable. However, as I stated, I am awaiting feedback from the National Rural Water Services Committee on new group water schemes. Perhaps the Deputy might arrange to make a submission to the committee and the necessary details available to my Department in order that we will be able to consider them in the context of the arrangements for 2014.

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