€91 Million Drainage-Cork Harbour Construction has begun at the new Irish Water Facility in Shanbally, as part of the €91 million Cork Lower Harbour Main Drainage Project. ?On Tuesday, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly TD, turned the sod to mark the start of construction. The project includes an overall investment of €91 million and will create approximately 50 jobs during the construction phase. The project will end the practice of untreated sewage being discharged directly into the harbour from Cobh, Carrigaline (including Crosshaven), Passage West/Monkstown (including Glenbrook) and Ringaskiddy (including Shanbally and Coolmore). Commenting on the Project, Minister Kelly said, ‘The implementation of the Cork Lower Harbour Project is required to protect the environment and to facilitate economic development in the communities around the Lower Harbour. The overall project which includes new pipes, pumping stations and the treatment plant, has been sized to accommodate an increase in the local population. Irish Water and Cork County Council are making this long term investment in Cork. Furthermore it will ensure that the water quality standards set down by regulatory bodies will be achieved and this will help Ireland to avoid substantial penalties.’ For further information on the Cork Lower Harbour Project log on to www.water.ie/corklowerharbour