Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Flaherty for his comments and will relay them to the Minister, Deputy O'Brien.

Grant support is available for households where there are identified water pollution risks. However, it should be noted that, under the Water Services Act, the owner of a system is responsible for its maintenance and for keeping it in good repair. The local authorities have a key role in the administration of the grants in their areas, and they work with the EPA to implement the national inspection plan. The Minister, Deputy O'Brien, is satisfied that the review completed and the modifications made will result in an increase of applications in 2024 and beyond. He has no plans to make further changes to the qualifying criteria.

See this speech in context