Meeting with Uisce Éireann on long-delayed Mayo treatment plant

MAYO Aontú TD Paul Lawless has welcomed confirmation that he has secured a meeting with Uisce Éireann to discuss the long-awaited wastewater treatment plant for Newport.

“This is a breakthrough after years of delay, silence and inaction,” said Deputy Lawless. “The fact that Uisce Éireann are now sitting down to engage directly with me on this vital issue is a positive step forward - not just for Newport, but for the entire region.”

For years, residents and local representatives have voiced their frustration over the lack of infrastructure in the area. Newport town currently has no wastewater treatment plant, and as a result, untreated sewage continues to be discharged into Clew Bay - a designated Special Area of Conservation.

“This is an environmental disgrace,” Deputy Lawless said. “It’s also a major roadblock to development.

“Families want to build homes here, businesses want to invest, and yet we’re being held back by the complete absence of basic infrastructure. It's unacceptable.”

Deputy Lawless said the consequences of this failure have gone on far too long.

“Housing developments are being stalled. The natural beauty of our coastline is being polluted. And worst of all, there’s been zero accountability. That ends now. The people of Newport have waited long enough.”

The meeting between Deputy Lawless and Uisce Éireann will focus on a clear timeline for construction, environmental concerns, and the capacity of the proposed plant to support future growth in the area.

“I want to acknowledge the persistence of the local community and the many people who’ve supported this campaign. This meeting is a result of that pressure.

“But we’re not just looking for more talk, we’re looking for action, and we won’t stop until Newport has the infrastructure it needs and deserves,” added Deputy Lawless.