Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will address concerns by rural householders that they are disproportionately bearing the cost of septic tanks charges in comparison to urban householders who have no such cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42194/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I do not consider that the new systems of registration and inspection for septic tanks, being introduced under the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012, are disproportionate on rural dwellers. Environmental and public health issues must be dealt with as circumstances dictate and where risks exist. A key objective of the new legislation is, therefore, to enhance and protect public health and the environment, particularly water quality, which will, in turn, benefit rural dwellers in terms of a better quality of life and better quality water.

In keeping with a commitment I made earlier this year, householders were able to avail of a reduced registration fee of €5 if they registered before 28 September. A €50 registration fee now applies and householders have until 1 February 2013 to register. Registrations are valid for five years and there will be no fee for re-registering. There will also be no charge for householders for carrying out inspections.

It should also be noted that development contributions charged by planning authorities in urban areas include significant charges for connection to both drinking water supply and to the public sewers and municipal wastewater treatment plants.