Hopes for full roll-out of septic tank scheme following review
A change in government policy in how domestic septic tanks are inspected and upgraded could make it easier for householders to avail of grants towards upgrade cost.
Currently, the Department of Housing provides financial support through the domestic waste water treatment system (DWWTS) grant scheme to assist householders to carry out works to repair or upgrade defective septic tanks. However, the grant for works is only available after the issuing of an advisory notice following an inspection carried out by the local authority under the National Inspection Plan.
Minister Peter Burke raised the issue with Minister for Housing, Darragh O'Brien. “There are many households with aging septic tank systems and they would only love to upgrade, but currently, you need to be randomly inspected by the Local Authority to be in with a chance of funding," explained Minister Burke.
"I would like to see a proactive approach to this and for the Department to fund the Local Authority to actively go and inspect and issue grants to properties that need the work carried out. A system similar to the Local Improvement Scheme, which is administered locally would be most effective," he states.
In agreement was Cllr Tom Farrell. “This would be a win win situation. Water quality would be improved and with flooding issues in many localities there would be obvious benefits,” said Cllr Farrell.
Minister Darragh O'Brien said the current scheme is focused on areas of greatest environmental priority rather than general in application. "This is line with Government Policy, including in particular the National Inspection Plan and the River Basin Management Plan, which are framed in the context of meeting relevant obligation under legislation."
He pointed out however that a recent review of the DWWTS grant scheme had been completed by his department.
"As part of the review, there was extensive consultation with stakeholders, including convening a workshop with local authority staff administering the grant to identify where improvements could and should be made to the terms and conditions of the grants. I expect to make an announcement on the outcome of the review in the coming weeks," he said.
Minster Peter Burke added: “Water quality is so vital to all our communities and we do need to explore all options to improve overall quality. I am glad there has been progress reviewing this scheme and I look forward to seeing the report findings in due course,” commented Minster Burke.