Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 October 2022
65. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will request that Irish Water and the Environmental Protection Agency investigate the cause of the confirmed presence of methylisoborneol in the water supply for County Wicklow and south County Dublin; if methylisoborneol has been found in other water supplies nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50487/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local level, including investment in wastewater treatment plants and returning wastewater safely to the environment in an efficient and sustainable manner. My Department has no operational function in this matter.
It may be helpful to note that Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. The team can be contacted via email to oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone on a dedicated number, 1890 578 578. Irish Water’s website contains information on methylisoborneol in the water supply www.water.ie/help/water-quality/unusual-taste-or-smell/.
Irish Water is closely regulated by the Health Services Executive and the Environmental Protection Agency in respect of public health protection and environmental compliance.
The Environmental Protection Agency as environmental regulator, is responsible for setting quality standards and enforcing compliance with EU Directives and national regulations for the provision of drinking water.
My Department maintains an ongoing engagement with Irish Water regarding strategic, financial and general operational matters.
