Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
394. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the review of the grant support arrangements for septic tanks, especially for those currently not eligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3056/26]
View answerGrant assistance is available in specific circumstances to support householders where defective Domestic Waste Water Treatment Systems (DWWTS), including septic tanks, pose a significant risk to the environment or to public health. The grants are targeted at areas of greatest environmental priority and are only available in specific circumstances.
In particular, grants may be accessed where a system has failed an inspection under the National Inspection Plan and an Advisory Notice has been issued, or where a dwelling is located within a designated area identified as particularly vulnerable to the impacts of defective systems.
The operation and maintenance of DWWTS remains the responsibility of the property owner, who must ensure that their system functions effectively and does not pose a risk to human health or the environment.
My Department is currently finalising a review of the grant support arrangements in light of evolving environmental objectives, including consideration of additional areas now identified as priority areas for action.
The outcome of this review will help ensure that the available resources continue to be used to best effect, delivering the greatest environmental and public health benefits.
