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Donegal families urged to apply for rural water funding

By Mark Forker, Donegal Daily

Donegal families living in rural communities have been urged to apply for a new scheme that is designed to improve water quality.

Pat The Cope Gallagher TD, has welcomed the Capital Funding Programme for the Rural Water Sector.

The initiative will run from next year until 2029.

However, those interested in the scheme in Donegal must submit their applications before October 23, 2026.

The programme has been designed to suppor improvements to rural water supplies, including water treatment upgrades, leakage reduction, source protection, extensions to existing schemes, new group water schemes and community water and wastewater connections.

Deputy Gallagher said it was a great opportunity for families across the county to improve their water supplies.

"This programme provides an important opportunity for communities across Donegal to improve the quality and reliability of their water supplies.

“Group water schemes and the volunteers who run them provide an essential service. This funding can help them upgrade ageing infrastructure, reduce leaks and meet the needs of the communities they serve," said Gallagher.

Gallagher encouraged interested groups to contact Donegal County Council’s Rural Water team as soon as possible to discuss their proposals and prepare their applications.

Applications must be submitted to ruralwater@donegalcoco.ie by 23 October 2026.

This allows the Council time to assess and prepare submissions ahead of the Department’s deadline of 20 November.

Late applications will not be accepted.

“Access to a safe and dependable water supply is vital for rural families and the future of our communities. It is important that Donegal makes full use of this opportunity," concluded Gallagher.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.