The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, have announced a new €175 million Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027–2029, representing a major investment in the future of rural water services across Ireland.
The new programme will support group water schemes and other rural water initiatives through eight funding measures focused on improving drinking water quality, infrastructure resilience, water conservation, source protection and community connections. It forms the next phase of the government’s Multi-annual Rural Water Programme (MARWP) and demonstrates a continued commitment to ensuring rural communities have access to safe, reliable and sustainable water services.
Developed following extensive engagement with stakeholders, including the National Federation of Group Water Schemes and local authorities, the programme introduces several important enhancements. These include an increase in the maximum grant available per household connection, a stronger emphasis on innovation and climate resilience, and the introduction of a new online application system designed to streamline the funding process.
Applications for funding opened on 27 July 2026, with local authorities and group water schemes encouraged to work together in developing proposals. The NFGWS will continue to assist member schemes throughout the application, project development and delivery stages.
The Federation welcomes this significant investment, which will help rural communities address water quality challenges, modernise infrastructure, improve operational sustainability and strengthen resilience in the face of changing environmental and climate conditions.
For more information on the Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027–2029 announcement please visit: Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027–2029.
You can also read the official press release from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage here: €175m Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector 2027-2029 announced
For additional information and support, group water schemes are encouraged to contact their local authority and their NFGWS development officer.
