Wastewater Treatment

Tuesday, 25 November 2025

Questions (513)

Colm Burke

Question:

513. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department, Uisce Éireann and local authorities are prepared to enter into discussions with companies with expertise in the building of modular treatment plants for water and wastewater in rural areas, and which companies are prepared to finance, build and maintain these treatment plants for a period of ten years from date of completion of construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65255/25]

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Written answers

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage (Deputy James Browne)

The provision of safe and reliable water and wastewater services in rural areas is a priority for Government.

I have recently outlined new arrangements to allow privately funded wastewater treatment systems to be constructed. Any such infrastructure must meet Uisce Éireann’s design, construction and commissioning standards, and must comply with EPA regulatory obligations. Uisce Éireann will take over ownership and responsibility for the operation of such assets. These arrangements are intended to support housing delivery in areas where wastewater capacity has constrained development while ensuring that environmental and regulatory standards are protected.

The potential for deployment of modular treatment plants in such circumstances is a best discussed by the promoters of such solutions and Uisce Éireann.