26 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment when applications for group sewerage schemes which have been temporarily suspended will recommence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7331/97]

Applications for group sewerage schemes were never suspended. Responsibility for the administration of the group water and sewerage grant schemes has been devolved to the local authorities, subject to existing commitments on foot of approvals issued by my Department. Ten group sewerage schemes have been approved to commence construction this year. It will in future be a matter for the local authorities to decide on grant applications and all unapproved applications received in my Department are being forwarded to the relevant local authorities for attention.