Malfunctioning septic tanks systems are posing great risks to people's health, and the environment in Ireland.
Nearly half of septic tank systems failed inspection in both 2017 and 2018, which poses a great risk to human health and the environment. As a part of addressing the issue, the government has proposed to expand the septic tank scheme, but householders need to fix these malfunctioning systems as a way of attacking it from both sides.
In July 2019, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a review of over 2,000 inspections of septic tanks and other domestic waste water treatment systems, throughout 2017 and 2018. It was found that nearly half the systems failed inspection, as a result of being built or maintained incorrectly. These faulty systems can contaminate household wells and pollute rivers, so householders have been advised to take advantage of the proposed expanded grant scheme when it becomes available, as a way to help address the problem.
Dr. Tom Ryan, the Director of the EPA's Office of Environmental Enforcement has said, "If you do not maintain your septic tank, it can contaminate your own or your neighbour’s well or your local stream, putting your health at risk and that of your family and neighbours. You can take simple steps to maintain your septic tank by making sure it is not leaking, ponding or discharging to ditches and by cleaning it out regularly".
Of all the systems that had failed the 2013 report, a third had still not been fixed by 2018, proving that local authorities need to take appropriate measures so they can ensure that householders fix systems that have failed inspection.
The Senior Scientist in the EPA's Office of Environmental Enforcement, Noel Byrne states, "it is important that householders fix systems where problems are detected. To improve water quality, the government’s proposed expanded septic tank grant scheme, due to be launched later this year, will increase the maximum grant aid available to €5000 and remove the means test requirements”.
Are you wondering why we're discussing legislation in the Republic of Ireland? Watch this space...
