Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail)
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In April 2022, I announced a new funding measure, under the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme, for the waste water collection and treatment needs of villages that do not have access to public waste water services.

Funding of €50 million has been specifically allocated under the National Development Plan 2021-2030. The first round of funding is intended to follow a demonstration project model approach to inform future funding needs that will provide appropriate longer-term solutions.

All rural local authorities were asked to submit a maximum of two suitable priority applications each, for this funding measure. A total of 23 individual applications from 13 local authorities were received before the closing date of 15 September 2022.

An independent Expert Panel has evaluated each application received and I will announce approval of funding for specific projects shortly. I have no plans to re-open the application process at this time.