Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South-West, Fianna Fail)

I again thank the Deputy and appreciate him raising these concerns on behalf of the people of Offaly and specifically Edenderry. My understanding is that quite a bespoke approach is being taken in Edenderry. A wastewater treatment plant that would be sufficient to serve the population of Edenderry will be designed. In the meantime, consideration will be given to an interim solution through a developer-led process which would be designed with the intention of connecting that to the wastewater treatment plant once it is designed and finished.

The Minister, Deputy Browne, and the Minister of State, Deputy Cummins, recently brought forward the national planning framework. There is a clear commitment in that to address regional development, including some of our smaller and larger towns and villages, in terms of ensuring there is investment in those areas. It recognises the need for balanced regional growth, which is a priority for the Minister, Deputy Browne, in respect of housing as well. I will come back to the Deputy with specifics on Edenderry, if that is okay.

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