Fine Gael National Press Office Press Release

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Higgins confirms EU water project funds available for Local Authorities

Leaky water supplies force businesses to pay higher rates

The European Union has confirmed to Fine Gael MEP Jim Higgins that EU funding is available to Irish local authorities for water conservation work such as repairing leaks and upgrading the water system.

Two different sources of funding are currently available and Jim Higgins is encouraging the Government to help local authorities to access these funds. The EU has committed €8 billion to water management and distribution up to 2013.

Mr Higgins has asked the Commissioner for Regional Policy, Danuta Huebner, to clarify what funds may be used for such work.

"Local authorities like all of us are facing tough financial times and do not have the financial ability to fund badly-needed projects such as repairing leaks and upgrading old inefficient systems.

"Local authorities should be drawing down EU funds when and where they are available. Water conservation work needs to happen. If it doesn't, it means businesses will be paying higher charges as local authorities are forced to source more water due to leaks in the system.

"The Commissioner has pointed out that funding is available from the European Regional Development Fund and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. This has to be explored by local authorities.

"I have informed of local authorities on a number of occasions that EU funding is available for energy-efficient street lighting, and some have followed this up with applications."