393. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage 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]

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.