Fine Gael said the new wastewater treatment plant in Kinvara, Co Galway, will end the practice of untreated sewage being discharged directly into Kinvara Bay.

Galway County Council and Irish Water have signed a deal to develop the new plant which will cater for a population of 1,300.

Galway East, Ciaran Cannon TD, said: "The contractor is expected to begin the final design of the plant this month, with works beginning at the site in early 2016. Irish Water says it expects to have completed construction of the new plant, the new marine outfall pipe and the upgrade of the sewer network in early 2017.

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"In addition, Irish Water is working on proposals to connect a number of private housing developments to the Kinvara Sewerage Scheme.

"This essential infrastructural funding for Kinvara is very welcome and good news for the community. It is an important and crucial step in meeting the current and future needs of the many homes and businesses in Kinvara and the town's thriving tourist industry.

"The wastewater treatment plant, which will be located to the north west of Kinvara in the townland of Ballybranagan, will have additional capacity to cater for peaks during the tourist season. The site also allows for any future expansion to support population growth."

(CD/JP)