Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 175: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will address health fears in County Kerry by immediately replacing all remaining lead pipe water supplies in the county; if he will make the necessary funding available; the length of time it will take to carry out the work; the total length of piping involved; the areas affected; the total cost of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2976/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Substantial funding towards local authorities' water conservation programmes, including replacement of lead pipes, is being provided under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2012. Kerry County Council has completed its county-wide Watermains Rehabilitation Strategy required as part of its water conservation programme. This Strategy identifies specific defective water supply networks requiring rehabilitation and/or replacement. The Council is also identifying works to be included in the next phase of Countywide Watermains Rehabilitation.

Local authorities can seek funding for the replacement of lead water distribution mains under this programme, and in certain circumstances, the Department also allows for the funding of certain works that encroach onto private property from the public side in the decommissioning of common backyard services for water conservation purposes. No proposal in respect of a general countywide replacement of lead pipes in County Kerry has been received from Kerry County Council.