Uisce Éireann slammed over lack of development in rural towns and villages

Uisce Éireann came in for renewed criticism at the monthly meeting of the Monaghan Municipal District for the delay in upgrading waste water treatment facilities in Knockatallon and Clontibret.

Correspondence from the utility said that Uisce Éireann’s Capital Investment Plan currently has no provision for upgrades in the villages.

A spokeswoman acknowledged the representations of MD members on this issue and the fact that it was a source of concern for them and their constituents. Upgrades may be required to accommodate new developments, she added.

“The team acknowledge the need for upgrades nationally,” said Ms Torreon. “However, the team must compete for funding with needs nationally.”

She said priorities were given to discharges with the greatest environmental impact.

Cllr Niamh McCooey (SF) voiced frustration at the response. “Uisce Éireann is a huge blockage to the development of rural areas because they won’t put money into upgrading infrastructure.”

She pointed out that the waste water plants in Knockatallon and Clontibret have reached a level of capacity preventing planning permission for further development in the areas being granted.

“Uisce Éireann announced a capital investment programme of €10.2bn for 2022-2029,” she added, “but they are not spending that in County Monaghan.”

Cllr McCooey said young people from Knockatallon and Clontibret want to remain living in these areas but that is dependent on social and private housing development that cannot take place because of Uisce Éireann’s lack of investment. She proposed the MD write to Uisce Éireann again asking them to expedite their upgrade programme.

Seconding, Cllr Seán Conlon (SF) said the response from the utility “doesn’t even have a fig leaf to cover their disinterest”. He added that Knockatallon has been proactive in trying to grow its population and develop the Sliabh Beagh amenity.

“Development efforts by rural communities are being dashed by the lack of interest and co-operation from Uisce Éireann,” Cllr Conlon declared.

MD Cathaoirleach Seamus Treanor (Ind) requested that Uisce Éireann be asked to clarify if waste water from outside the MD area is being treated at the Monaghan Town plant.

“The amount of trucks going to and from the plant is unbelievable,” Cllr Treanor said. “We should be looking after our own first.”