Work at major flooding blackspot in Tullamore delayed until 2028
Concerns raised over Uisce Éireann delivery capacity in Offaly despite major State investment
Fianna Fáil TD Tony McCormack has raised concerns in the Dáil regarding whether Uisce Éireann currently has the operational capacity, management structures and accountability mechanisms necessary to deliver critical infrastructure projects at the pace now required across the country.
Deputy McCormack raised the issue directly with the Taoiseach earlier this week during questions on infrastructure delivery, following his work on the Oireachtas Infrastructure Committee.
Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy McCormack acknowledged the significant work being undertaken by Government to accelerate infrastructure delivery, particularly through the work of Minister Jack Chambers on infrastructure legislation and Minister James Browne on housing delivery.
However, he stressed that concerns remain around delivery capacity within Uisce Éireann despite unprecedented levels of State investment.
“The Government is putting major investment and the right frameworks in place,” Deputy McCormack said. “The State is now committing almost €17 billion to Uisce Éireann over the next five years, which is an enormous level of investment. The issue now is not funding — the issue is whether the organisation has the operational capacity, technical expertise and management structures required to deliver projects efficiently and communicate clearly with communities.”
In response, the Taoiseach acknowledged that accountability within Uisce Éireann is an issue that needs to be examined further.
Deputy McCormack again raised the matter on Thursday with Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure Jack Chambers, highlighting growing frustration in Offaly regarding delays and uncertainty around wastewater and water infrastructure projects.
He specifically referenced concerns in Edenderry, where wastewater capacity constraints are impacting housing and future development, as well as ongoing infrastructure issues affecting Birr, Banagher, Clara and Tullamore.
Deputy McCormack also highlighted concerns regarding long-awaited works on Tyrrells Road in Tullamore, which had been expected to commence at the end of this year or early next year but are now reportedly delayed until 2028.
“One of the biggest frustrations for local communities, builders and public representatives is the lack of clear timelines and reliable communication,” Deputy McCormack said. “People understand that infrastructure projects take time, but they need clarity around what is planned, when works will commence and when delivery can realistically be expected.”
In response, Minister Chambers acknowledged Deputy McCormack’s ongoing engagement on the issue and agreed that accountability and clear communication from Uisce Éireann are critically important.
The Minister stated that communities, builders and developers require reliable timelines in order to plan effectively and confirmed that he would raise the matter directly with Uisce Éireann through the Infrastructure Taskforce.
Deputy McCormack said he welcomed the Minister’s response but stressed that greater transparency and delivery certainty are now essential.
“With the level of investment now being committed by Government, communities rightly expect delivery,” he said. “The funding is there. The priority now must be ensuring Uisce Éireann has the structures, accountability and delivery capacity necessary to manage these projects efficiently and provide clear engagement with local communities and elected representatives.”