Wastewater scheme second round
Deputy McNamara questioned delays to a promised second round of funding for wastewater schemes in towns and villages without sewerage. The Taoiseach said the Minister was working on it and expected an announcement before year end.
In April of last year the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, announced a €50 million pilot scheme to put in wastewater schemes in towns and villages where there was not one. That was to be just a first round; there was to be another round. Since then, there have been considerable delays such that there might not be a second round. Most importantly there has been enormous competition between Broadford and Cooraclare, which were put forward, and competition with Carrigaholt which was not put forward. There is competition with settlements that really need a sewer but do not have one like Spanish Point and Doolin. There is even competition between the parliamentary colleagues of the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, to come out on top on this. For all of these communities but most importantly for communities affected by this, I ask the Taoiseach to tell us what will happen. When will the announcement be made? Will there be a second round of this during the Government's lifetime?
Comment on this
I understand the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, is working with officials on this at the moment. The last time I checked with him, he anticipated he would be able to make an announcement before the end of the year. We would very much like to see a second round happening during the term of this Government but, of course, that will depend on how long the term of the Government lasts.