Wastewater Treatment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 February 2014

Thursday, 20 February 2014

Ceisteanna (164)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

164. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will indicate, in respect of each wastewater treatment plant around the State, the total volume of waste processed in 2013 compared to 2012; if increases in volume can be attributed to the new septic tank regulations; if the monetary gain accrued from the new regime has offset the increased costs of waste processing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8732/14]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

I have no responsibility for, or role in relation to, the operation of water services infrastructure.

The Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations 2007 provide for the authorisation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of discharges from public waste water treatment works and collection systems that are released to all types of receiving waters. The EPA reports on the operation of waste water treatment plants at all urban areas that are subject to the waste water discharge licensing regime and the latest Report is available on the EPA website.

From 1 January 2014 Irish Water is responsible for the operation and maintenance of water services infrastructure. My Department has asked Irish Water to put in place specific arrangements to address the queries which public representatives may have in relation to matters pertaining to the operation of water services under the new utility.  I understand that Irish Water is in contact with Oireachtas members this week to outline the arrangements for addressing such queries in a timely manner.