Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Gabhaim mo bhuíochas leis an Teachta as an gceist seo a ardú inniu agus as an seans a thabhairt dom dualgas Uisce Éireann a leagan amach. Tá an freagra as Béarla, agus tá brón orm faoi sin.

The Water Services Acts 2007 to 2017 set out arrangements in place for the delivery of water and wastewater services by Irish Water and for the scrutiny and oversight provisions that apply in respect of these arrangements. The Deputy will understand the provision of facilities in County Galway is a matter for Irish Water in the first instance. Since 1 January 2014, Irish Water has had statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels.

Irish Water takes a strategic nationwide approach to asset planning and investment, and meeting customer requirements. The prioritisation and progression of individual projects and programmes is a matter for determination by Irish Water.

My Department has made inquiries on the issue mentioned by Deputy Connolly. I am informed that Irish Water has just today been made aware of the decision by An Bord Pleanála to grant planning permission for an alternative project on the preferred site for the proposed wastewater treatment plant in An Cheathrú Rua. Irish Water is currently reviewing this decision and any implications for the proposed sewerage scheme in An Cheathrú Rua.

The Government is aware that significant and sustained investment is needed to ensure the continued operation, upgrade and repair of the country's water and wastewater infrastructure and to support economic growth in the years to come. In this regard, as part of budget 2022, my Department secured funding of over €1.57 billion to support water services. This includes €1.459 billion in respect of domestic water services provision by Irish Water. This overall investment will deliver significant improvements in our public water and wastewater services, support improved water supplies right across Ireland, including rural Ireland, and support a range of programmes delivering improved water quality in our rivers, lakes and marine area.

I agree with Deputy Connolly that this is a critically important project for the area, particularly as the region's population grows. What the Deputy has referenced here is a long-running saga that needs to be addressed by Irish Water. I will take her concerns back through our Department's water section to Irish Water. I hope I have provided some clarity for the Deputy in the response I have given.

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