Clare Senator Tony Mulcahy has received confirmation from Government that the long awaited proposed overhaul and upgrading of the Shannon Sewerage Scheme in County Clare will proceed to construction in 2015.

In a response to a motion raised in the Seanad by Senator Mulcahy, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Phil Hogan said the existing scheme requires major reengineering and an investment of €2.5m to €3m under Irish Water's Capital Investment Plan for 2014-2016.

Minister Hogan said: "Irish Water is considering the technical options for the scheme and will be proceeding to detailed design, budget finalisation and, subject to statutory consents, will proceed to construction in 2015."

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Senator Mulcahy, who lives in Shannon, described the announcement as "a landmark moment" for the town of Shannon, Shannon Airport, the industrial estates and the areas surrounding Clare's second largest town.

He added: "The complete overhaul of this Scheme is necessary for continued social and economic growth and expansion in Shannon. While I acknowledge the fact that the upgrade of four Pump Stations is taking place at present, the completion of this scheme will be very much welcomed by the town’s residents as well as industry who have for many years requested such works to be undertaken.

"The existing scheme dates back more than 40 years and is now outdated in terms of Mechanical and Electrical equipment, pumping capacity and operating environment as evidenced by the odour issues in the town in the recent years. The provision of a modern sewerage scheme is key to Shannon town’s future growth and status as a location for investment."

(CD/MH)