I propose to take Questions Nos. 320, 321, 323, 324, 325 and 327 together.
The current cycle of the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme (MARWP) covers the period 2024–2026. The Programme Framework, which sets out the eligibility criteria for each funding measure, is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/circular/a2436-circular-l124-multi-annual-rural-water-programme-2024-2026-applications-for-funding/.
Under the MARWP 2024- 2026, a number of individual measures support specific rural water activities including source protection, water treatment, network improvement, and Community Water Connections (Measure A7), where these are technically and economically viable.
For Community Water Connections, a minimum threshold of 25 households is required to ensure that projects are viable and represent value for money. Very small-scale schemes result in disproportionately high per-household costs and are not sustainable in the long term. I have no plans to change this requirement.
It is important to note that the MARWP already provides a mechanism to address exceptional or urgent needs. Local authorities may apply to my Department at any time for emergency or once-off funding where exceptional circumstances arise; it is not necessary to await the next Programme cycle.
In addition, my Department also provides private well grants to support improvement works to individual rural water supplies.
Further information is available here: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/private-wells/.
Extensive preparatory work has been undertaken and continues on the next Programme, which will run from 2027 to 2029. Applications will be sought in mid-2026, a significant improvement on previous cycles where applications were only invited at the start of a new cycle of the Programme. This change allows for earlier engagement, better planning, and a seamless transition when the new Programme begins in 2027.
I remain committed to ensuring that funding, including under the next Programme, continues to support the needs of rural communities.
