Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to enhance the group sewerage scheme grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38779/12]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends increasing the maximum grants under the group sewerage and group water schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37855/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 86 and 1060 together.

The rate of grant available for Group Sewerage Schemes is €2,031.58 per house or 75% of the cost of the scheme, whichever is the lesser. The National Rural Water Services Committee, which has a role in advising me on rural water policy, proposed that the rate of grant be reviewed during 2012. As a result of a review carried out by my Department I propose, in the first instance, to carry out a number of pilot schemes based on an increased grant level. Work on selection of the pilot schemes and related funding arrangements will be completed as soon as possible. I have no proposals to increase the existing grant for group water schemes.