The new draft deal which looks to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland has pledged an urgent investment in wastewater infrastructure.

Parties are meeting today, 10 January, in the hopes of agreeing to the 'New Decade, New Approach' proposal to get Stormont up and running again.

NI Water Chairman Dr Len O'Hagan has welcomed the draft deal and highlighted the importance placed on transforming public services.

"NI Water's latest strategy has identified the need to invest £2.5bn to begin addressing historic underinvestment," Dr O'Hagan said. "In Belfast alone, £1bn is required to tackle wastewater, flooding and drainage problems within the 'Living with Water Programme'. Without investment in critical water infrastructure across Northern Ireland, it will not be possible to deliver other priorities in the draft deal in areas such as housing, city deals or developing our tourism sector.

-- Advertisement --

"I further welcome the commitment to 'Leaner Government'. This has the potential to deliver greater efficiencies in our sector and create better value for the public purse. The pledge to multi-year funding and the news that there will be a review of Arm's Length Bodies is also a positive step. 

"NI Water stands ready to ensure that Northern Ireland can fulfil its potential to have a cleaner, greener and more prosperous future. Restoration of devolved government and political direction, if underpinned by the required levels of funding, will ensure this will happen."

(CM/JG)