Minister gives approval to invite tenders for the Design Build Operate contract of the Claregalway & Milltown Sewerage Scheme.

Mr. Phil Hogan, T.D. Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, today ( 7th May 2013 ) announced that he has given approval to invite tenders for the Design Build Operate contract of the Claregalway & Milltown Sewerage Scheme.

“This vitally important project which is being funded under my Department’s Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2013 as contracts to commence construction during the period of the programme at an estimated cost of €10.68 million for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Design Build Operate (DBO) Contract and €2.87 million for the Network Contract”, the Minister said.

“It will greatly expand the quality and scale of the wastewater infrastructure in the county and will provide capacity to support economic growth and to facilitate new development, while also preserving environmental and water quality standards,” the Minister added.

‘‘I understand work is already underway on the Network Contract, for which I approved funding of just over €1.33 million in August last year and is progressing rapidly.’’

“The financial support from my Department for this project reflects the commitment for continuing investment in our wastewater schemes to ensure that discharges into our rivers, lakes and coastal water meet the highest international standards.”

“In the case of the Claregalway & Milltown Sewerage Schemes, it will now be a matter for Galway County Council to advance the Wastewater Treatment Plant Design Build Operate (DBO) contract to construction as quickly as possible”.

In a letter to Fine Gael Galway West TD Seán Kyne, Minister Hogan said the sewerage scheme will “greatly expand the quality and scale of the wastewater infrastructure in the county” and “provide capacity to support economic growth and to facilitate new development”.

“This latest funding is essential in ensuring we have the highest standard of water supply and waste-water treatment facilities,” he said. “This is an important issue for both the city and county.”

Fine Gael Galway East TD Paul Connaughton has also welcomed progress on the scheme and told the Galway Advertiser:

“Progress on the scheme for Milltown is particularly welcome as it will help preserve water quality standards in the area,” he said. “I would like to see work get underway on this DBO contract for both Claregalway and Milltown as soon as possible, as it will have the dual benefit of enhancing water quality and providing jobs in the region.”