Public meeting sought over proposed Kilkee wastewater plant - Clare Echo

A CALL has been made for Uisce Éireann to hold a public information evening in Kilkee to provide clarity on proposals for a new wastewater treatment plant.

*Cllr Gabriel Keating (Inset) has proposed the WCMD write to Uisce Eirean requesting they come to Kilkee “provide clarity” on the proposed plant

The issue was raised under Any Other Business at the September meeting of the West Clare Municipal District by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG).

Cllr Keating said he had received correspondence from residents about the proposed wastewater treatment plant over recent months and wanted Uisce Éireann to come to Kilkee to explain its proposals.

He said he supported the provision of proper wastewater treatment but acknowledged that he was “not an expert” on the technical aspects of the project.

Cllr Keating said he wanted to see whether “common ground” could be found with Uisce Éireann and called for better understanding of the issues being raised.

“I am proposing that we write to request that Uisce Éireann hold a public information evening regarding the proposed Kilkee Wastewater Treatment Plant and clear the air once and for all,” he said.

According to information published on Uisce Éireann’s website, the project is intended to end the discharge of untreated wastewater to Intrinsic Bay.

Uisce Éireann says on its website that it has received planning permission for a new wastewater treatment plant, pumping station and associated pipework, with the next steps including the acquisition of land and rights of way.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) supported the proposal.

Cllr Ian Lynch (Ind) said Uisce Éireann may not be in a position to comment while the matter remained in the legal process.

Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) said he did not think Uisce Éireann could comment because the matter was before the courts.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) said Uisce Éireann would “hide behind it”.

The comments come amid an ongoing legal challenge relating to the proposed development. The High Court dismissed the judicial review challenge in July, but campaigners subsequently sought leave to appeal the judgment directly to the Supreme Court.

Cllr Shannon confirmed the request would be sent to Uisce Éireann on behalf of the Municipal District.

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