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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 6 Dec 2001

Vol. 546 No. 1

Written Answers. - Water Quality.

Michael Bell

Question:

12 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the steps he intends to take to ensure the safety and security of the water supply system having regard to the increased level of public concern regarding the dangers of chemical or biological attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31103/01]

The need to safeguard water supplies has been the subject of a series of guidelines, over the years, by my Department to local authorities, which are responsible for the management and operation of water supply infrastructure, and for the first line response to any incident that would affect the security and quality of supply to the public.

These departmental guidelines for ensuring the safety and security of water supply systems are periodically reviewed in response to new circumstances and continue to be developed in light of emerging threats. The action plans of the local authorities, adopted in accordance with the guidelines, form part of the major emergency plans and will be activated as part of the response to an emergency.

In the light of recent events, local authorities were asked to review their major emergency plans and local plans, including plans for security and protection of water resources and drinking water supplies, to ensure that they were up to date and effective.

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