Eamon Scanlon (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)
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Question 185: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the Crossboyne sewage scheme, County Mayo, particularly the funding position, progress and future plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21724/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I approved funding under the Serviced Land Initiative for an upgrade of the Claremorris Wastewater Treatment Plant and for the provision of a new sewage collection network in Crossboyne Village in 2007.

Last month, my Department, following a review of the Serviced Land Initiative in light of developments in the economy at large, and in the housing market in particular during 2008, and having regard to the oversupply of housing in some areas, informed all local authorities that all existing approvals under the initiative, for which contracts have not been signed or letters of intent have issued, were being withdrawn.

I understand that, in this case, no letter of intent has issued and that a contract has not been signed. However, authorities were also informed that where a water services authority is of the opinion that the continuation of an approved scheme for which contracts have not been signed is necessary for the proper development of the area, it is open to the authority to make a case to my Department, by the 29 May 2009, for the scheme to progress. My Department will consider any case, which Mayo County Council may make in respect of this scheme within the specified time limit, as quickly as possible.