Grant scheme needed for septic tank repairs

THE government has been called on to introduce a grant scheme to all householders with septic tanks to help maintain and upgrade them.

The situation at the moment is 'a lottery', according to Councillor Ger Deere.

People are trying to do their best to protect the environment but they need help.

He tabled a motion calling for a grant scheme at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council.

He highlighted a case involving an elderly couple with a special needs son who had to pay €8,000 for works on their tank.

However, people living down the road from them, because they had received an inspection, were able to get a grant.

If you weren't inspected you weren't entitled to grant aid, he explained.

The government has to look at a scheme if they were serious about the environment, he stated.