Crucial water infrastructure investment will "unlock housing", says Ó Cathasaigh
The Uisce Éireann investment will upgrade the wastewater collection and stormwater treatment system in Gaeltacht na nDéise leading to an environmentally friendly expansion in water supply in the area (iStock).
Uisce Éireann will be upgrading a crucial water treatment plant in Baile na nGall, in Gaeltacht na nDéise, which Green Party TD for Waterford, Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh said will "unlock housing" in the area.
The Uisce Éireann investment will upgrade the wastewater collection and storm water treatment system in Gaeltacht na nDéise leading to an environmentally friendly expansion in water supply in the area. The works will address a lack of water supply in the region, when the project is delivered in early 2026.
“I’m delighted to see this much-needed investment in Gaeltacht na nDéise," said Deputy Ó Cathasaigh.
"Provision of waster water treatment is a critical limiting factor in developing new housing," he added.
“If we want our Gaeltacht areas to remain vibrant wellsprings of the language, we need affordable homes being made available for people who want to live there. This investment in water treatment is an important step along that road.”
The investment is expected to improve the water quality in Dungarvan Bay and protect the crucial aquatic habitat of oysters and other shellfish within this designated shellfish water area by upgrading the existing existing pumping station at An Mota and building infrastructure to increase frequency of water overflow into the bay during poor oceanic conditions.
“This new and improved infrastructure will ensure that wastewater in Baile na nGall is adequately treated and meets the highest environmental standards before being safely discharged into the marine environment,” said Colm Claffey, the Programme Manager at Uisce Éireann.
Mr Claffey said that the upgrades will “support the economic and social development of the communities living in this beautiful part of Waterford."
"We’re delighted that the works are soon to commence and thank the community in advance for their patience and support as we deliver this essential project.”
The upgrades will be made by a private construction firm, David Walsh Civil Engineering Ltd with works expected to begin ont he site in early 2025.
