Water funding programme worth €175m to help improve quality for rural communities
The next cycle of the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme will support investment in the group water schemes over the period 2027-2029.
The Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027–2029, providing €175m in investment, has been launched.
Announced by minister for local government James Browne, the programme is aimed at improving drinking quality, resilience and reliability for rural communities across Ireland.
The new programme builds on Government investment in the rural water sector in recent years and continues the long-term commitment to improving rural water services.
The next cycle of the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme will support investment in the group water schemes over the period 2027-2029.
It comprises eight funding measures, now open for application, aimed at improving water services for communities that are not connected to Uisce Éireann networks.
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The new programme introduces several important enhancements, developed following extensive engagement with stakeholders, in particular the National Federation of Group Water Schemes and local authorities.
These enhancements include increased funding limits, a stronger focus on innovation and climate resilience, and a new online application system.
These changes are designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of group water schemes, improve value for public investment, support more consistent decision-making across the sector and make the application process more efficient.
The maximum grant available per household has increased to €20,000, from €15,000, helping schemes to meet rising costs and infrastructure requirements. The programme also encourages innovative approaches to addressing water quality challenges, particularly those associated with climate change and changing environmental conditions.
Announcing the funding, Mr Browne said: “The Multi-annual Rural Water Programme is a vital investment in ensuring safe, secure and resilient water services for rural communities and will help group water schemes continue to provide supplies while investing in the renewal and modernisation of their infrastructure for future generations.”
Minister of state with responsibility for nature and biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan added: “While Ireland has naturally abundant water resources, some rural communities face challenges around the quality or quantity of drinking water available to them. These issues can be down to a range of factors — from contamination to low yield, to problems with the water infrastructure.
"The launch of the capital funding programme for the rural water sector will help us to address these issues in a strategic way that supports public health, community wellbeing and wider rural development.”
Local authorities are invited to partner with group water schemes in developing and submitting applications for funding under the programme, with the application process opening on July 27.
