1755. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether he will examine measures to increase the harvesting and storage of rainwater, given growing concerns about water shortages during periods of prolonged high temperatures; whether consideration has been given to a national strategy for rainwater harvesting and water storage infrastructure, recognising that Ireland receives significant rainfall throughout much of the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57783/26]

The Government's objectives and priorities in relation to water services delivery are as set out in the Water Services Policy Statement (WSPS) 2024 – 2030 which was published 23 February 2024

The WSPS supports the promotion of water conservation and water resource management as an important element of water services policy that is to be reflected in strategic investment planning by Uisce Éireann. For the period of the Policy Statement, this will involve the prioritisation of multifaceted programmes around leak detection and repair, network improvements, metering, public awareness campaigns and funding for addressing domestic customer leaks.

The concentration on leakage reduction first and foremost will ensure the greatest return on capital investment in terms of the overall impact on conserving water supplies and reducing the overall demand for treated water.

While water sustainability systems (e.g. rain water recovery systems, grey water usage, etc.) are not mandatory, they are being used increasingly in homes and buildings, and my Department has ensured that appropriate standards are referenced under Part H – Drainage and Waste Water Disposal – of the Building Regulations and the accompanying Technical Guidance Document H 2016. My Department also publishes design guidance for local authorities - Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities – which emphasises environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. The influence of this guidance extends beyond social housing provision to provide an important reference point in promoting sustainability issues generally.