I propose to take Questions Nos. 591 and 616 together.
It is a matter for the relevant planning authority, and An Bord Pleanála on appeal, to assess whether or not a particular site is suitable for on-site disposal of effluent, and if necessary to attach the appropriate conditions in any planning permission granted. In the case of septic tanks, the Standard Recommendation for Septic Tank Systems, S.R.6: 1991, drawn up by the National Standards Authority of Ireland, was brought to the attention of local authorities by way of my Department's circular letter PD1/92 of 8 January 1992. Local authorities were requested, inter alia, to ensure that septic tank and percolation systems were properly installed in accordance with the planning permission granted and the standard recommendation.
The standard recommendation provides guidance for the proper maintenance of septic tanks by way of regular desludging and the proper disposal of the sludge. Primary responsibility for ensuring proper maintenance of septic tanks and compliance with any relevant planning conditions rests with the owners of the septic tanks. In circular letter PD 1/92, local authorities were requested to consider appropriate educational, publicity and advisory measures on proper maintenance and desludging regimes for septic tanks. My Department's circular letter PD 3/94 advised planning authorities on dealing with the alternative proprietary waste water treatment systems which in certain circumstances can offer equal or better protection to groundwater than a septic tank and percolation area.
Local authorities, as statutory pollution control authorities, have a full range of powers and remedies available under the Water Pollution Acts, 1977 to 1990, to deal with any pollution or potential pollution from septic tanks.
In relation to the building regulations, I refer to my reply to Question No. 581 on today's Order Paper.