Bennett ‘expected more’ on septic tank response

A local councillor has expressed dismay at the response received from government in relation to his proposals to roll out a broader and more accessible grant scheme to fix or replace faulty household septic tanks.

Fine Gael’s Winston Bennett told a meeting of Cavan County Council earlier this year that he had received numerous calls over the years from people about their septic tanks not working but, unless a house was located in a certain zone, there are no supports available to help with the costs.

The response from the Minister for Housing & Local Government, James Browne, was highlighted at the July monthly meeting of elected members.

In the letter the Minister’s office outlined the rationale behind the current policy and explains why there are no immediate plans to expand the scheme further. The Minister’s office highlighted that the current scheme provides support to householders whose systems have failed an inspection under the National Inspection Plan or who live in areas designated as Prioritised Areas for Action or High Status Objective Catchment Areas. In such cases, householders may now access grants of up to €12,000—an increase from the previous maximum of €5,000, effective since January 1, 2024.

This substantial increase, the Minister noted, reflects the government’s commitment to incentivising remedial works.

“I would have expected more,” said Cllr Bennett.