The Environmental Protection Agency's report on Water Quality in Ireland 1995-97 states that the overall water quality situation in Lough Mask and Lough Corrib is satisfactory at present. This is based on the findings of monitoring programmes summarised in the EPA report and the preliminary results of detailed research projects. The report indicates that the status of Loughs Mask and Corrib has varied since 1976 between oligotrophic, unpol luted, and mesotrophic, low probability of pollution, with only slight variations in quality over the periods 1995-97 compared to 1991-94. Both water quality classifications are regarded by the EPA as satisfactory and suitable for salmonid fisheries, abstractions for water supply and other pollution-sensitive uses. Loughs Corrib and Mask would also fall within the highest quality classification for lakes in the proposed EU framework directive on water policy.
Since 1997, my Department has been pursuing a comprehensive, integrated strategy to tackle all sources of nutrient enrichment, or eutrophication. This is already beginning to show evidence of some improvements in water quality at a number of locations. The strategy is underpinned by the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977 (Water Quality Standards for Phosphorus) Regulations, 1998, which were made in July 1998. The regulations set clear targets for reducing phosphorus levels in rivers and lakes within a ten year timeframe.
The strategy is being supported by my own Department's major £1.5 billion programme of investment in sewage infrastructure facilities throughout the country in the ten year period to 2005. This programme lays particular emphasis on the provision of phosphorus reduction facilities where a need is indicated. My colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, has substantial initiatives under way to tackle phosphorus inputs from agriculture, including the rural environment protection scheme and the new control of farm pollution scheme.
My Department wishes to promote and support the making of bye-laws by local authorities under section 21 of the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1990 to control and/or prohibit certain agricultural activities in the interests of avoiding water pollution. The powers of local authorities to make such bye-laws were extended and strengthened by the Local Government Act, 1994 (Bye-Laws) Regulations, 1999 (S.I. No. 78 of 1999). While it is open to Galway and Mayo County Councils to act under these regulations, I will keep the need for further legislative initiatives under continuing review.
