Rural Cork Water Services Receive New Funding
Rural water services in Cork, which have faced challenges in meeting the growing demand, are set to receive new funding as part of a national initiative. This investment is part of the multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026, aimed at improving water infrastructure in rural areas across the country.
Under this program, a total of €71 million has been allocated nationwide. However, only a small portion of this amount—€800,000—has been designated for nine Group Water Schemes in Cork by Minister of State Christopher O’Sullivan. For some schemes, the funding is as low as €1,785. Despite this, the allocation is expected to benefit 375 households in the region.
The nine schemes receiving funding include:
- Ballyguyroe – Tankardstown GWS (€34,850)
- Blackpool/Curraglass GWS (€1,785)
- Castlepark GWS (€12,750)
- Clonmult (Dungourney) GWS (€54,509)
- Graigue GWS (€8,925)
- Killally Ballinrush GWS (€27,459)
- Kilmore, Tooreehlahard, Skeheen and Coolowen GWSs (€25,755)
- Scarteen, Desert, Shanagh, Dromore, Ballyroberts and Lissacrue GWSs (€49,378)
- Glenacarney GWS (€587,936)
Minister of State O’Sullivan emphasized the importance of safe and secure water for rural communities, stating that it plays a vital role in the quality of life and the attractiveness of these areas for living, visiting, and establishing businesses. He noted that the funding will help improve water quality compliance, reduce leakage, and expand access to piped water from the public network.
Broader Investment in Rural Water Infrastructure
The funding announced today is part of a larger investment totaling almost €74 million for 291 individual capital projects across the country. This support is primarily directed towards Group Water Schemes, with a focus on water source protection, compliance with water quality standards, leakage reduction, and expanding the coverage of piped water supplies from the public network.
Local authorities were involved in the application process, working closely with group water schemes and their representative body, the National Federation of Group Water Schemes. An independent Expert Panel conducted a critical evaluation of all applications received.
This latest funding comes on top of previous support, including:
- Over €45 million for seven individual projects addressing wastewater collection and treatment needs in villages and settlements without access to public wastewater services, announced in December 2023.
- Over €47 million for 256 projects under the multi-annual programme, announced in November 2024.
Commitment to Rural Development
The funding being provided to the rural water sector highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to the social, environmental, and economic development of rural Ireland. By investing in water infrastructure, the government aims to ensure sustainable growth and improved living conditions in rural communities.
These initiatives reflect a broader strategy to address the unique challenges faced by rural areas and to support long-term development. As the demand for reliable water services continues to grow, such investments are essential in maintaining the quality of life and fostering economic opportunities in rural Ireland.
