Fianna Fáil Deputy Charlie McConalogue has said the announcement of a grant scheme for septic tank owners need work is a ‘small step in the right direction.’
Speaking following this week’s announcement by the Environment Minister Phil Hogan, Deputy McConalogue said it will come as a relief to septic tank owners in Donegal that there will be at least some support for those facing hefty bills for upgrade and replacement works.
“Minister Hogan and his Fine Gael colleagues have consistently attempted to underplay the impact of their controversial septic tank legislation on rural dwellers. It is relief this week that the Minster has finally realised that his legislation unfairly penalised rural communities, and has now agreed to our demands for a grant scheme,” said Deputy McConalogue.
“While this grant scheme is certainly a step in the right direction, it is somewhat disappointing that the Minister has capped the grant at €4,000. Homeowners requiring major works on their septic tanks will still be liable for a large proportion of bill,” he said.
The Donegal Deputy called on the Minister to immediately publish the National Inspection Plan, which has been prepared by the EPA. The plan will detail where the inspection will take place and what standards will apply.
“Previous reports this year suggested that more than 22,500 septic tanks at homes and businesses in the North West have been identified as posing a risk. This includes 2,184 homes around Lough Swilly and 1,082 homes around the River Crana. The situation remains very uncertain for these homeowners until they know whether they will be in the firing line under Minister Hogan’s plan,” the Fianna Fáil Deputy said.
“It is only when the National Inspection Plan is published that we’ll know the full impact of this legislation on Donegal homeowners.”
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