Uisce Éireann has welcomed the publication of the Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan by Minister Jack Chambers, T.D., saying it sets out practical reforms to tackle barriers to delivering projects across Ireland.

The utility said it supported the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce through the involvement of its CEO, Niall Gleeson, who served as a member, and Uisce Éireann secondee Angela Ryan. It added that the recommendations reflect many of the challenges it has raised, particularly the complex regulatory and approvals regime affecting critical water infrastructure.

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At present, delivering water schemes can involve multiple steps, including route and site selection, land acquisition (by agreement and/or through compulsory purchase orders), planning consent, marine area regulatory consents, and wastewater discharge and water abstraction licences. These approvals are often separate and non-consecutive, extending project timelines. Uisce Éireann has long advocated simplifying and streamlining these consents and prioritising its applications.

Welcoming the report, Niall Gleeson commented: "The comprehensive, time-bound measures set out in the Action Plan represent a welcome approach to streamlining this process, and we are encouraged by the focus on practical implementation and cross-sectoral collaboration. We remain committed to supporting the ongoing work of the Taskforce and to playing our part in ensuring that these reforms translate into real and lasting benefits for communities nationwide.

"Uisce Éireann looks forward to continued collaboration with all stakeholders as we work together to deliver the essential water and wastewater infrastructure that supports housing and growth and underpins Ireland's future."