Irish Water’s confirmation that the wastewater treatment plant in Kilmihil is to be upgraded will have significant environmental, social and economic benefits for the village, according to Clare Independent TD Michael McNamara.

Deputy McNamara said the works would facilitate future growth in the village and would also eliminate discharges from the plant to the Doonbeg River.

“I am delighted to have received confirmation that Kilmihil is one 12 schemes across Ireland to be funded by the European Union under Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan,” stated Deputy McNamara.

He continued, “The sewerage network in Kilmihil is a combined system and during past storm events the plant has become hydraulically overloaded. The upgrade will prevent treatment plant discharges from reaching the Doonbeg River, which is part of the Doonbeg Freshwater Pearl Mussel sensitive area.

“New commercial, retail and housing developments in the village also will be facilitated as the result of the planned upgrade of the existing treatment plant.”

Deputy McNamara confirmed he has written to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD requesting that Carrigaholt, Cooraclare and Doolin be considered for inclusion in any future schemes providing funding for infrastructure in rural villages that currently are outside Irish Water’s investment programmes.