Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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917. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the reason group water schemes, including the Cadamstown group water scheme, are finding it extremely difficult to access emergency funding from his Department to address water supply issues experienced during the prolonged dry period during the summer of 2022; what measures he intends to take to ensure appropriate levels of service for people receiving water from group water schemes are brought about; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38491/23]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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The Department's Rural Water Programme provides capital funding to group water schemes under a multi-annual programme as well as an annual subsidy for their operational and management costs.

However, my Department does appreciate that from time to time there can be a need for group water schemes to carry out emergency capital works. When this arises, there is an agreed process whereby, at the time the event occurs, local authorities can submit applications along with appropriate documentation to my Department.

In relation to the specific funding application referred to, I can confirm that there is ongoing engagement between Offaly County Council and my Department on the matter. Further information has been requested from Offaly County Council which is required to allow a final decision be made.