I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 323 together.
Primary responsibility for the monitoring, management, protection and improvement of water quality is assigned to local authorities under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts and related legislation. The Environmental Protection Agency, through its Office of Environmental Enforcement, exercises general supervision in relation to the performance of these functions by local authorities.
In relation to the issue of potential pollution from the water treatment system, while the incident in question was brought to my Department's attention, I have no direct role in the investigation of specific water pollution issues. However, I understand that a Notice, pursuant to Section 12 of the Local Government (Water Pollution) Acts, requiring measures to be taken to prevent water pollution has recently issued to the responsible persons and that Tipperary County Council are currently awaiting a response. In addition, I understand that the local authority have committed to further engage with the stakeholders involved on receipt of further information.