asked the Minister for the Environment the reason new houses do not qualify for group water scheme grants and if any changes in these regulations are contemplated.

New houses which are built without the aid of State grants are ineligible for assistance towards the cost of installing piped water and sewerage facilities during the construction of these houses. This is a logical consequence of restrictions on the grant of £1,000 payable towards the cost of the first time purchase or construction of a fully serviced new house. An exception may, however, be made if piped water and sewerage facilities are provided following completion of bona-fide occupation of a new house. No changes in the present grant restrictions are contemplated.

319.

asked the Minister for the Environment (a) the number of applications received for group water supply schemes in Kildare; (b) the location of each scheme; (c) the likely date of commencement; and (d) the estimated cost in each case.

The following is the information requested:

Proposals for 120 schemes not subsequently abandoned or amalgamated in County Kildare have been received in the Department details of which are as follows:—

1. Group schemes at various locations in County Kildare on which work has been completed.

2. Schemes under construction.

3. Schemes at design stage.

Total 3 schemes to serve 83 houses. It is hoped that work will commence on these schemes in 1979. Costings are not available.

4. Schemes at preliminary stage.

25 proposals for schemes have not yet reached design stage.