Eutrophication, or over-enrichment, which is caused mainly by excess inputs of phosphorus from various sources, is the main threat to Irish water quality. Agriculture has been identified as the single biggest contributor in this regard accounting for 73% of total phosphorus inputs. Significant inputs also arise from sewage discharges and from industry.
Since 1997, my Department has been pursuing a comprehensive, integrated strategy to tackle all sources of eutrophication. Major catchment-based projects for the establishment of water quality monitoring and management systems are well under way, or nearing completion, in relation to Loughs Derg and Ree, Lough Leane and the Rivers Boyne, Liffey and Suir. Substantial investment, of more than £160 million, is also being made in sewage infrastructure in these catchments. The strategy is underpinned by the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977 (Water Quality Standards for Phosphorus) Regulations, 1998, which set clear targets for reducing phosphorus levels in rivers and lakes by end 2007.
For purposes of implementing the EU Water Framework Directive, my Department is now promoting the establishment by local authorities of river basin management projects to address water management in all inland and coastal waters, including groundwaters, and all sources of water pollution. Some £50 million is being assigned by my Department to support local authority expenditure on River Basin Management projects with financial support at a rate of 100%. A river basin management project for the south-east has been approved in principle, and I expect similar projects to address inland and coastal waters in all other areas will be approved during the current year. This comprehensive approach is being supported by my Department's major investment programme in sewage infrastructure facilities throughout the country.