asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the course of action, if any, he proposes to take to ensure that Irish farmers operating pig farming or silage units do not directly or indirectly damage the natural environment by allowing untreated effluent to run into the inland river system of our country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Water Pollution.
73.
Local authorities already have extensive powers in relation to the control of water pollution under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977. In particular, the authorities are empowered under section 12 of the Act to serve a notice in writing on any person specifying measures which appear to the local authority to be necessary in order to prevent pollution of waters and directing the person to take the measures specified within a specified time. This section has been widely used to prevent pollution from agricultural sources.
I have recently announced a comprehensive and integrated programme of measures to combat water pollution, particularly from agricultural activities. These include strengthening and extension of water pollution legislation, the carrying out of surveys of farms by local task forces, and a programme of educational and awareness activities.