Jim Higgins
Ceist:59 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the implications for this country of the urban waste water directive 91/271 EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EC Directive.
Council Directive 91/271/EEC concerning urban waste water treatment will come into force from 30 June 1993. A programme for its implementation must be established by 31 December 1993. The directive sets standards and other requirements for sewage treatment which vary according to the size of the discharge. Secondary treatment is required as the norm for discharges from population equivalents of 2,000 upwards to internal fresh waters and estuaries and of 10,000 upwards to coastal waters. More stringent treatment may be required for larger discharges to sensitive areas, as defined in the directive, and primary treatment may be allowed for certain discharges to less sensitive areas. The time scales for the provision of treatment range from 1998 to 2005. The directive also requires re-use of sewage sludge, whenever appropriate, and the phasing out of its disposal to surface waters by the end of 1998.
All of the above provisions are consistent with the policies announced in the Government's environment action programme in January 1990. The action now well underway to implement the commitments made in that programme will ensure that all requirements of the directive can be met within the time frame envisaged.