Uisce Éireann is set to inform TDs and Senators that it needs an extra €2 billion to expand water services capacity to meet the Government’s updated housing goals, reports RTE.
The utility provider will be appearing before the Oireachtas Committee on Infrastructure and National Development Plan Delivery.
Chief Executive Niall Gleeson will highlight that the increased target of 300,000 new homes by 2030 necessitates additional, specifically allocated funding, reports RTE.
Its current funding proposal for the 2025-2029 period outlines a requirement for €10.3 billion in investment toward capital infrastructure and assets.
However, Mr Gleeson now indicates that an extra €2 billion will be needed between 2025 and 2030 to support the projected housing expansion, reports RTE.
According to the utility’s opening remarks, obtained by RTÉ News, the extra funding would be directed toward developing adequate water and wastewater infrastructure in areas identified for growth under the National Planning Framework.
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Mr Gleeson also emphasizes the need for more consistent financial backing and long-term Government investment plans.
He will say: “Many of our stakeholders across the supply chain have highlighted the challenges in being able to meet demands without clarity as to our funding programme and the provision of one-off investment, reports RTE.
“Additionally, the annual allocation of funding to Uisce Éireann creates further uncertainty year-on-year. An effective solution is to align our funding allocation to our overall investment programme through a multiannual funding structure so we can better plan and deliver long-term projects, maximise efficiencies and provide greater certainty to our supply chain.”
Mr Gleeson further cautions that the greater Dublin region is under pressure with mounting water supply and wastewater treatment issues, reports RTE.
He attributes this to infrastructure struggling to keep up with the demands of a growing population, as well as increased housing and business activity.
“These are not just Dublin problems; they have significant implications for Ireland’s competitiveness and population. The region and counties therein are home to a large number of our citizens and a base for economic activity – and they are growing,” he adds, reports RTE.
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