Timelines for Offaly and Tullamore under new Uisce Éireann plan demanded

THE Government’s approval of an additional €2 billion investment for water and wastewater infrastructure must translate into real, time‑bound delivery for communities in Offaly, including Tullamore and rural towns and villages that continue to face development constraints due to inadequate capacity.

Independent TD Carol Nolan was speaking after Uisce Éireann confirmed that 72 cities, towns and villages have been identified as priority locations for accelerated investment under the National Development Plan, including Tullamore, which is designated as a Key Town within regional and local development plans.

Deputy Nolan said: “I welcome any investment that has the potential to unlock housing, support economic growth and provide certainty for local authorities and communities. However, Offaly has been here before. We have seen announcements, frameworks and strategies that ultimately fail to deliver the capacity needed to support new homes, local businesses and essential services.”

“Uisce Éireann has stated that €300 million will be allocated specifically to support rural communities. That must include a clear and transparent commitment to rural Offaly, where towns and villages have repeatedly been held back by water and wastewater limitations.”

“The people of Offaly need to know when this investment will be delivered, how Offaly’s needs were assessed, and what specific projects will be prioritised. I will be seeking immediate engagement with Uisce Éireann and the Department on these issues.”

Deputy Nolan said she will also be requesting that Uisce Éireann publish detailed timelines for each priority location, including Tullamore, and provide a breakdown of how rural funding will be allocated across counties:

“Announcements are welcome, but delivery is what matters. Offaly must see tangible progress, not just inclusion on a list,” Deputy Nolan concluded.