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

The Deputy made a valid point about urban areas that have grown into rural areas where there are one-off houses that now need to be connected. It is a priority for Uisce Éireann. The Minister will announce a new scheme next week for villages to upgrade systems. That is vital. We often hear from Deputies in the House about areas, particularly rural areas, where there are challenges around wastewater treatment. It is a priority for the Government in respect of funding Uisce Éireann and the work it has to carry out.

Separately, it is important to look at innovation around integrated construction, wetlands and other innovations that could be used in clustered housing in rural areas that might address issues in water quality. The Government is determined to look at it and to try to address. It is critical to try to address these issues when the grant schemes are brought forward. It is important that householders avail of the grants and the public awareness campaign will be important. The uptake of the grant is important. This matter is affecting human health, water quality and the receiving environment.

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