Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 307: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the refocused measure for general water scheme top-ups in respect of 2009, which was to be announced in late 2008, will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6975/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, one of the more successful aspects of the CLÁR Programme has been the level of funding provided to the various Water and Sewerage measures over the years. Funding approved under those measures rose from approximately €2.4m in 2002 to more than €16m in 2008. In total over €45m has been approved to date for water and sewerage schemes since the programme was launched in 2001. Currently, there is in excess of €17m in outstanding commitments under these measures.

In relation to the Water and Sewerage schemes I had hoped to announce re-focused measures late in 2008 which would focus on group water scheme top ups and the provision of sewerage schemes in small villages. However In the current economic climate I am currently reviewing the CLÁR programme as a whole, having regard to demand, the funding available and the level of outstanding commitments. In this context, I will consider the reintroduction of modified Water and Sewerage measures when circumstances allow.