·         Presentation by Water Services Section

Ms. Catherine Finlay, Administrative Officer in Water Services Unit gave a detailed presentation to the members on the Multi Annual Rural Water Programme 2019-2021:

·         The programme relates to small rural water and wastewater supplies not connected to the public mains (Irish Water network)

·         The multi annual funding approach is scheme specific with water quality, water conservation and future proofing of supplies as the main policy objectives

·         Nationally €75m over three years is allocated with €3.125m for Roscommon during this period.

·         Funding for Roscommon over this three-year period is provided under a number of measures including:

o   Source protection for Group Water Schemes -  €351,150

o   Public Health Compliance to improve water quality -  €814,000

o   Enhancement of existing schemes including water conservation - €1,431,000

o   Transition of Existing Group Water and Group Sewerage Schemes to the Public (Irish Water) Sector - €247,000

o   Community Connections to public network - €18,113

o   Individual Well Grants and in-site wastewater treatment systems is to be announced to reflect recently announced changes.

The Members welcomed the update and the allocation of grants for rural water supplies and discussed the matter as follows:

·         There is a need to have an awareness campaign to inform the public that the North East Regional Water Supply scheme (NERWSS) has a new treatment plant and the boil water notice is no longer applicable?

·         There was concern expressed about the cost of making a connection to the Irish Water network, which is now €2,263 and can reach up to €50,000 if there is a considerable distance from the mains to the connection – what has changed?

·         The allocation should be provided early in the year to allow to plan for work for the year ahead.

·         Are the works in the programme 100% funded and if not, who makes up the shortfall?

·         Forward thinking of the Council to ensure all services up to standard before village enhancement works such as was recently completed in Athleague.

·         When will the UV treatment on the Mid Roscommon supply be completed?

·         Can the Council put pressure on Irish water to carry out repairs more quickly?

Mr. Martin Lydon, Director of Services and Ms. Catherine Finlay replied to queries and comments as follows:

·         The pricing of water connections has been agreed through the Commission for Regulation of Utilities

·         Irish Water undertook a publicity campaign earlier in 2019 when the new water treatment plant was officially opened for the NERWSS.

·         There is 100% funding for source protection works, which is currently a pilot project. The remainder of the schemes are funded at 85% with the groups funding the remaining 15%.

·         The new three-year allocation will allow the Council to plan better for works required over the coming years.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Ward

                SECONDED by Cllr. Connaughton

It was AGREED that in future, forthe people of rural county Roscommon, normal charges should apply for water connections, irrespective of the distance from the watermain.  It was further agreed that this letter be sent to Irish Water and every Local Authority.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Fitzmaurice

SECONDED by Cllr. Ward

It was AGREED that Roscommon County Council invite the managing Director or Senior Official from Irish Water to attend a meeting of Roscommon County Council.