Written answers
Tuesday, 11 July 2023
Department of Housing, Planning, and Local Government
Water Services
Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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393. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 267 of 15 November 2022, for an update on rural water frameworks; when money will be released to Donegal County Council, as promised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33857/23]
Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm that my Department is in the final stages of completing comprehensive Framework documentation to support the application process for the upcoming Multi-annual Rural Water Programme. Extensive engagement with stakeholders, including a Rural Water Working Group made up of key stakeholders in the Sector, was a valuable and necessary requirement to allow my Department finalise this work.
I expect to receive a submission soon for my consideration setting out the details of each of the funding measures of the programme. Subject to approval, local authorities will then be invited to submit applications for funding for specific priority projects in their areas. An independent Expert Panel, set up for the task, will consider each valid application and make recommendations for funding.
Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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394. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will outline the approach which is being taken in aligning the operational approaches of those working in local authorities that have great expertise in managing water infrastructure, as Uisce Éireann takes over more direct responsibility for these operations and the workforce involved; and whether the Workplace Relations Commission or other such bodies have been engaged to evaluate issues which may cause challenges. [33865/23]
Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The Framework for Future Delivery of Water Services (June 2022) was developed following a comprehensive process of engagement with unions under the aegis of the Workplace Relations Commission and enables the integration of public water services into Uisce Éireann's organisational structure.
The Framework provides that local authority water services staff have the option to transfer to Uisce Éireann or to remain in the direct employment of their current local authority while also maintaining their current terms and conditions of employment.
Uisce Éireann and the local authorities are working together to put in place legal agreements to replace the existing Service Level Agreements for delivery of water services. These new agreements will ensure the smooth transition of water services operations to Uisce Éireann in the period to 2026, with the full support of the local authorities.
The WRC-hosted Irish Water Consultative Group provides a regular forum for engagement between management and union leaders to discuss and resolve any challenges that may arise as part of this transformation process.
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