Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

578. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to introduce a grant scheme to assist householders in meeting the cost of replacing lead water pipes, in view of the fact that householders may currently receive grants for home insulation works, but not for carrying out pipe replacement works required to make their drinking water safe. [18367/15]

Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

589. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will introduce a grant to assist homeowners with the cost of replacing dangerous lead pipes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18495/15]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 578 and 589 together.

The Water Services Act 2007 provides that the owner of a premises is responsible for the maintenance and renewal of the internal water distribution system. Responsibility for replacing lead pipes from the main stopcock to the house and within the house therefore rests with the homeowner. In a joint position paper on lead published by the EPA and HSE in 2013, it is recommended that all lead pipes and plumbing in public and private ownership should be replaced over time.

In relation to the proposal for a grants scheme, my Department is developing a national strategy for lead, which it is discussing with the Department of Health, Irish Water, the HSE and the EPA, in order to map the scale of the problem and identify measures to mitigate any risks to human health posed by lead in drinking water. I briefed the Government on the matter at the Cabinet meeting today and the strategy will be completed and published next month.

Householders may qualify for relief under the Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) Scheme introduced under Section 5 of the Finance (No. 2) Act 2013. The HRI scheme covers main residence repairs, renovations and improvements, including plumbing works. The scheme is administered by the Revenue Commissioners and full details are published on Revenue’s website at:.