The Government has announced a new €175m Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector, providing investment in rural water infrastructure and Group Water Schemes across Ireland between 2027 and 2029.

The programme, launched by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister of State Christopher O’Sullivan TD, is aimed at improving drinking water quality, strengthening infrastructure resilience and supporting the long-term sustainability of community-managed water services serving areas outside the Uisce Éireann network.

Representing the next phase of the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme (MARWP), the initiative comprises eight funding measures designed to address water quality, infrastructure renewal, network expansion, conservation and climate resilience. Applications are now open, with local authorities invited to work alongside Group Water Schemes in developing proposals.

The investment is expected to support a wide range of projects, including treatment plant upgrades, source protection measures, leakage reduction, mains rehabilitation, new and extended water schemes, connections to Uisce Éireann infrastructure and pilot projects showcasing innovative technologies.

A notable feature of the programme is the increase in the maximum grant available per household from €15,000 to €20,000, reflecting increased construction costs and the growing investment required to modernise ageing rural water infrastructure. The programme also introduces a greater emphasis on climate resilience and innovation, encouraging schemes to adopt new approaches to improving water quality and long-term operational performance.

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has also introduced a new online application system designed to simplify and standardise the funding process. Updated guidance has been prepared to assist local authorities and Group Water Schemes in developing high-quality applications.

Announcing the programme, Minister James Browne said the investment demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to improving water services in rural Ireland.

“The Multi-annual Rural Water Programme is a vital investment in ensuring safe, secure and resilient water services for rural communities and will help Group Water Schemes continue to provide supplies while investing in the renewal and modernisation of their infrastructure for future generations.”

Minister Christopher O’Sullivan said the funding would help address ongoing challenges relating to drinking water quality, water availability and ageing infrastructure.

He said the programme would support public health, community wellbeing and wider rural development while helping rural communities continue to access safe and reliable drinking water.

Developed in consultation with local authorities and the National Federation of Group Water Schemes, the programme places greater emphasis on long-term sustainability, consistent investment decisions and improved value for public funding. With applications now open, the latest investment is expected to play an important role in strengthening rural water infrastructure while supporting resilient communities and sustainable regional development.

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