EPA says raw sewage flowing into rivers and sea in 35 places across Ireland

Deputy Darren O’Rourke expressed concern at an EPA report that found raw sewage is flowing into rivers and sea in 35 places across Ireland.

He said said it would come as no surprise to anglers in Meath, who have been raising the issue of poor water quality in Meath for years.

“The report from the EPA today confirms raw sewage is still flowing into rivers and sea in 35 places across Ireland.

“These discharges pose an unacceptable risk to the environment and public health and it’s hard to believe this is still happening in this day and age.

“This news will come as no surprise to anglers around Kells who care for the Blackwater river and have been raising the issue of water treatment facilities with authorities for years.

“While Virginia and Bailieborough wastewater treatment plants are not on the list of those leaking raw sewage, this would be contested by many locally.

“The report did find that Virginia and Bailieborough did not meet binding EU or secondary treatment standards and are putting pressure on inland water ways, specifically the Blackwater River.

“At the crux of this is the state’s historic failure to invest in wastewater treatment.

“EU Commission infringement proceedings against this state for urban wastewater treatment infringements are well under way.

“I’d now like to see the EPA, Irish Water and the Department of Housing must urgently appear in front of the Oireachtas Housing Committee so we can tease out the issues raised by the EPA in their report, and hear what the department and Irish Water plans are to address the huge problems raised."