Niall Gleeson, CEO of Uisce Éireann, has declared 2024 a year of significant transformation for the utility, with over €1.3 billion invested in water services across Ireland. This investment, he asserts, underscores Uisce Éireann’s commitment to delivering high-quality services that empower communities nationwide.
A standout achievement, according to Gleeson, was securing government approval in principle for the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region. This ambitious venture, described as a once-in-a-generation undertaking, aims to establish a climate-resilient water source for the future. Coupled with the Greater Dublin Drainage scheme and efforts to address legacy infrastructure, these projects are pivotal in meeting the demands of Ireland’s growing population and economy.
Gleeson also highlighted the utility’s Strategic Funding Plan, outlining the investment required from 2025 to 2029. This plan is crucial for maintaining and operating over 7,000 public assets and advancing critical national projects. These strategic investments, he argues, are vital for supporting housing delivery, economic growth, and long-term resilience in water and wastewater services.
The Annual Report 2024 also reveals progress in Uisce Éireann’s transformation programme, integrating local authority water services staff into a unified national utility. This initiative will result in a team of nearly 4,500 people directly delivering water services to 80% of the Irish population.
Chris McCarthy, CFO of Uisce Éireann, emphasized the economic stimulus provided by the capital investment programme. These investments, he contends, are essential for improving service quality, meeting regulatory standards, and supporting sustainable development across Ireland.
The full Annual Report 2024 is available on the annual report page.
This news could shape the sector by setting a precedent for large-scale, strategic investments in water infrastructure. It may also influence other utilities to pursue similar integration and transformation programmes, potentially leading to a more unified and efficient approach to water services nationwide. The focus on climate resilience and sustainable development could spark a broader debate on the role of water utilities in mitigating climate change and supporting green growth. Moreover, the emphasis on economic stimulus and job creation might encourage policymakers to view water infrastructure investments as a means to drive economic recovery and growth.