More supplies removed from EPA’s ‘at risk’ list following essential upgrades

13 October 2022

Almost 3,500 water customers in Kerry have received excellent news with the decision by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to remove Mountain Stage and Ballyheigue Water Supply Schemes from its list of ‘at risk’ supplies. The Remedial Action List (RAL) identifies drinking water supplies that are at risk of failing to consistently supply safe, clean drinking water. The supplies were removed by the EPA following extensive investment and upgrade works by Uisce Éireann, in partnership with Kerry County Council, at Commonage and Drom Water Treatment Plants which supply Mountain Stage Water Supply Scheme, and at Ballyheigue Water Treatment Plant.

The Mountain Stage project involved upgrades to the drinking water processes at both plants as well as the construction of additional storage, providing 12 hours of additional treated water capacity in the event of supply disruption and to meet increased seasonal drinking water demand in Glenbeigh and surrounding areas. Upgrades to Ballyheigue included a newly installed Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, providing an adequate barrier to Cryptosporidium. The upgrades have not only ensured both supplies are compliant with the Drinking Water Regulations but will also ensure the provision of a clean, safe drinking water supply for homes and businesses for generations to come.

Speaking about the removal of Mountain Stage and Ballyheigue Water Supply Schemes from the RAL, Sean Twohig, Regional Delivery Lead with Uisce Éireann, said: “Uisce Éireann is committed to ensuring that all our customers have safe, clean drinking water. The EPA Drinking Water Report shows that the quality of Ireland’s drinking water supplies continue to improve. We have increased investment in our drinking water services year on year, and this is reaping big benefits for all our customers nationwide, giving them the assurance that, when they turn out their tap, they can enjoy clean, safe drinking water."

“We recognise of course that challenges remain in some areas and we have prioritised our efforts in addressing these. In particular our enhanced focus on monitoring and testing supplies allows us to identify problems early and take action to fix them and, where appropriate, notify the public of any risks to their drinking water."

“It will take a number of years and high levels of investment to bring our public water supply to the standard we all strive for but we are confident that we are on track to achieve this. Public health is our top priority and we will continue to work in partnership with our stakeholders, including the EPA, to ensure world class drinking water supplies for all our customers.”

The Remedial Action List is updated quarterly by the EPA for those water supplies where investment in treatment processes is required.

Customers with queries or concerns about the quality of their drinking water should contact the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 or via Twitter @IWCare.

Uisce Éireann is responsible for the delivery of all public water and wastewater services in Ireland. We are committed to continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support the growth needed in housing and across our economy, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies.