Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
393. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide more detail on the small wastewater element of Action 15, Enable Developer-led Infrastructure, within the Government’s new infrastructure plan, Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70763/25]
View answerAction 15 of the Government’s Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan, referenced in the Question, sets out a targeted and carefully controlled approach to enabling developer-led delivery of standalone wastewater treatment infrastructure. This initiative applies only in specific circumstances, where existing public wastewater capacity is unavailable or constrained, and where delays could otherwise slow housing delivery.
The aim is not to replace public provision, but to complement Uisce Éireann’s networks in particular locations, especially for smaller developments. Developers may, under strict conditions, deliver wastewater treatment plants to help deliver housing where public wastewater capacity is not yet available. Once completed, all such infrastructure will be transferred to Uisce Éireann, which will own, operate, and maintain it as part of the public wastewater system.
This approach will be underpinned by a clear technical, environmental, and regulatory framework. Standards will apply to design, construction, performance, operation, and environmental protection. Proposals will be assessed by Uisce Éireann before commissioning, with oversight from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local authorities. The EPA is also preparing General Binding Rules for small wastewater treatment plants, which will provide a practical framework for smaller facilities while ensuring consistent environmental standards.
A key part of this initiative is strengthened engagement between developers and Uisce Éireann. Structured procedures will provide clear points of contact, guidance on standards and approval pathways, and ongoing interaction to ensure proposed infrastructure aligns with public systems. Early engagement will help reduce uncertainty, manage risk, and improve coordination.
Coordination between Uisce Éireann, the EPA, planning authorities, and relevant divisions of my Department will also be enhanced to streamline approvals, clarify roles and responsibilities, and provide greater certainty for all parties.
By enabling developer-led delivery under strict standards, while ensuring that all new infrastructure is transferred to and operated by Uisce Éireann, this new initiative supports timely housing development, safeguards public health, and protects the environment — ensuring that small wastewater infrastructure is effective, sustainable, and fully integrated into our public system.
