The Government has approved an additional €14.3 million to deliver rural wastewater projects under Measure A8 of the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme, bringing total funding to €65.2 million.

The initiative, first introduced in 2022, is designed to provide modern wastewater services for villages and small settlements without public infrastructure. The projects will improve water quality, protect local rivers and streams, and reduce risks to public health. They are also expected to support biodiversity and strengthen the long-term sustainability of rural communities.

Minister for Housing James Browne TD said the schemes would deliver lasting environmental improvements. “These projects will provide modern, sustainable wastewater services for communities that have not had access to such infrastructure, supporting both existing homes and future housing growth,” he said.

Minister of State for Heritage Christopher O’Sullivan TD described the announcement as a major milestone in tackling long-standing environmental challenges. “They will improve water quality, safeguard public health and provide essential evidence to inform future national policy,” he said.

The projects will be led by local authorities and, once completed, transferred to Uisce Éireann for long-term operation. Funding increases include Clarinbridge and Craughwell in Galway, Ramsgrange in Wexford, Broadford and Cooraclare in Clare, Beaufort in Kerry and Ballygawley in Sligo.

Across all seven projects, total funding has risen from €50.9 million to €65.2 million. The Department’s contribution has increased to €59.3 million, alongside €5.9 million in local authority co-funding.

The new infrastructure is expected to deliver cleaner water, healthier ecosystems and stronger environmental protection for rural communities, while also providing the evidence base for future national wastewater policy.