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

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue today and giving me an opportunity to outline the position in respect to Uisce Éireann’s responsibility on this issue. The Water Services Acts 2007-20 set out the arrangements in place for the delivery of water and wastewater services by Uisce Éireann and for the scrutiny and oversight provisions that apply in respect of these arrangements. As the Deputy will understand, the provision of wastewater services in County Kerry is a matter for Uisce Éireann in the first instance. Since 1 January 2014, Uisce Éireann has had statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels. The scope, prioritisation and progression of individual projects are matters for Uisce Éireann and are approved through its internal governance structures. My Department has made enquiries with Uisce Éireann about the issue mentioned by the Deputy. Uisce Éireann has advised that works are progressing on the Kilcummin sewerage scheme. The scheme will provide a new sewer collection system for Kilcummin village, which will ensure wastewater from the village is treated appropriately and to protect watercourses, as the Deputy mentioned.

The scheme will reduce reliance on on-site systems such as septic tanks and package treatment plants. It includes the construction of a new wastewater pumping station, gravity sewer and associated works in Kilcummin. Wastewater from Kilcummin will be transferred to the Killarney town sewer system for appropriate treatment at the Killarney wastewater treatment plant. This will improve water quality in the River Deenagh and in Lough Leane, provide scope to facilitate future development within the catchment and ensure compliance with EU and Irish wastewater regulations. The overall project is due for completion in early 2024.

The Government is committed to the significant and sustained investment 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, budget 2023 secured over €1.78 billion to support water services. This includes €1.65 billion in respect of domestic water services provision by Uisce Éireann. This overall investment will deliver significant improvements in our public water and wastewater services, support improved water supplies across Ireland, including rural Ireland, and support a range of programmes delivering improved water quality in our rivers, lakes and marine area, making a significant contribution to addressing Ireland’s needs.

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