Since 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local level. Irish Water as a single national water services authority takes a strategic, nationwide approach to asset planning and investment. The scope, prioritisation and progression of individual projects is a matter for Irish Water, and is approved through its own internal governance structures.
However, the importance of protecting and improving Ireland’s water resources cannot be underestimated. Having good, secure water supplies, comprehensive waste water services and clean waters are vital for protecting public health, supporting economic growth and preserving our environment for future generations.
In this regard, I am pleased to note that the Stillorgan Reservoir has been modernised with the construction of a new state-of-the-art covered reservoir by Irish Water, which means that homes and businesses covering 200,000 people across South Dublin, will now enjoy a much safer and more secure water supply.
The new covered reservoir, which can store over 160 million litres of treated drinking water, replaces three open reservoirs that were no longer fit for purpose as they were uncovered and presented a risk of contamination by not only birds, but also from other animals and human activities.
The completion of the reservoir marks the culmination of a total investment of €150 million in the upgrade of the Vartry Water Supply Scheme, which also delivered the replacement of the old Vartry to Callowhill tunnel in 2018 and the construction of the new Vartry Water Treatment Plant which was completed in 2021. The reservoir and associated infrastructure will have the capacity to support future water demand through 2031 and beyond.
This work, progressed by Irish Water and the Local Authorities, is critical not only to the health and wellbeing of the population, but also to the development of the city, enabling us to meet our commitments under Housing for All, to create more businesses and attract more investment, by providing a more secure and resilient water supply for Dublin.
