€16 million funding boost for Donegal Rural Water Services - but outrage remains

Over €16 million in funding for 25 rural water projects across Donegal has been approved, although Pat the Cope Gallagher TD admits to being scathing about Letterbrick community water scheme not being included.

The funding, sanctioned under the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme and announced by Ministers James Brown and Christopher O’Sullivan, will support improvements in water quality, supply security, and environmental sustainability for rural communities throughout Donegal. The approved projects include upgrades and taking charge of schemes.

Speaking after the announcement, Pat the Cope Gallagher stated: “This funding is a critical lifeline for many rural communities who have long needed support in maintaining and upgrading their water services. These projects will not only enhance public health and environmental standards but also help sustain the viability of rural living in County Donegal.”

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He commended Donegal County, which submitted strong applications, and acknowledged the ongoing partnership between government and local authorities in delivering essential rural services.

Donegal County Council will assess each application that is funded and decide on the best way to deliver each project.

“While welcoming this announcement, I am outraged that Letterbrick community water scheme is not included in this tranche," Mr Gallagher added. “ Donegal County Council submitted the further information requested by the Department and I cannot understand why this scheme was not included.

“I have contacted Minister O’Sullivan, who has delegated authority for group water and has agreed to meet with a delegation regarding Letterbrick. I will endeavour, because of the importance of providing water to 55 dwelling houses, to arrange this meeting at the earliest possible date. We must deliver clean, reliable water to rural communities that have waited far too long.”

The Group Water Schemes (GWS) across County Donegal are set to benefit from substantial funding under Measure A6 – the Taking-in-Charge of GWS and Group Sewerage Schemes.

The largest allocation of €4,036,759 has been awarded to Inishboffin Island (Inis Bó Fine), aimed at supporting the island’s off-shore water infrastructure. Laghey Bar GWS will receive €1,530,399, while Meederryhirk & Brocagh GWS has been allocated €1,767,760.

Among the highest allocations is €1,919,222 for Owey Island GWS, and €1,413,420 for Toragh GWS. Meenavean GWS will benefit from €1,059,612, while the Meederryhirk & Brocagh GWS receives €1,767,760.

Other funding awards include €267,600 for Porthaw, Cleenagh/Ballymagan GWSs, and €175,760 for schemes across Momeen, Magheracloy, Lettermakenny, and surrounding areas. Meenmore/Meenatinny GWS has been allocated €43,640, and Meenatotten GWS €11,600.

Other notable grants include €855,831 for Legan GWS, €562,400 for schemes covering Garryharry, Woodlands, and surrounding areas, and €322,040 for Desertegney and neighbouring localities. Additionally, Glenmakee GWS will receive €81,400; Glencoagh and associated areas will receive €154,560.

These investments will support the transition of local schemes into public management, improving service quality and long-term sustainability.

Dunlewey GWS has been awarded €50,490 and €50,714 in separate allocations, while Tory Island GWS will receive €12,750 in duplicate awards. An extension of the Dunlewey GWS to Fanaboy and Meenalea has secured €428,400 under Measure A5, supporting expansion of existing and new schemes.

Meanwhile, under Measure A6 – for taking schemes into public management – Ballyboe/Iskaheen/Aught GWS will receive €95,040, Carn High GWS €8,500, and Collon (Tiernaleague) and associated areas €101,240. A major allocation of €1,014,302 goes to Coole Cranford GWS, while Corlea and surrounding GWSs will benefit from €139,040. Additionally, a repeat entry confirms €322,040 previously granted to the Desertegney and Criselk area.