Overview
The demand on, and for, water and sewerage services has increased significantly in this country since the mid 1990’s; most of this surge in demand is a result of unprecedented economic growth.
In Ireland, public water mains are administered and maintained by Local Authorities. This water is supplied to homes and businesses in urban areas. Almost 200,000 of the one million households in Ireland are not connected to a public water supply. These are served by what are known as group water schemes. Group water schemes can get water supplies from the public mains (if possible) or a private source (well or lake, etc.). All water supplies that are used for human consumption must meet certain standards, which have been laid down by the EU. There is a wide variety of both national and European legislation that deal with water quality in Ireland. The high availability of fresh water is one of the key economic resources of the State and efforts are being made at all levels to continually improve water quality for the benefit of local communities, aquatic life, tourism, and recreation. Local legislation covered by the Water Pollution Acts (1977 and 1990) and Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations, combined with the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive, aims to comprehensively monitor, manage, and protect water resources throughout the country.
High profile international campaigns, such as Blue Flag and growing campaigns, such as Clean Coast, have also aided in the significant improvement in the quality of bathing water around the Irish coast in recent years.
To find out more about the Blue Flag and Clean Coast campaigns click here
For information on water in schools click here