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The Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government
Phil Hogan TD has announced that there will be a period of
public consultation on septic tanks performance standards
following the legislation being enacted this week.
Speaking at the Select Sub-Committee on Environment, Community
and Local Government, Minister Hogan said - "Before finalising
the regulations on performance standards, including the requirements
for maintenance and desludging, there will be a period of
public consultation. Following enactment of the legislation,
my Department will draft standards with the EPA and those
guidelines will then be the subject of a public consultation.
I encourage Public Representatives and members of the public
to engage with the process and voice any concerns they might
have.
“Based on experience with inspections carried out in County
Cavan, the majority of tanks are likely to be working well.
The legislation will provide for a proportionate and risk-based
approach to inspections. Inspections will be concentrated
on sensitive areas with higher risk to the environment and
public health. Only a minority of systems will need attention.
“My responsibility as the Minister for Environment, is to
protect the ground water supply and human health. As a result
of a European Court of Justice ruling that dates back to 2009,
this legislation is needed to prevent Ireland being faced
with large fines, more than €9.5 million per annum.
"The central strand of Ireland’s defence in this case
will be that the necessary legislative measures have been
put in place to protect ground water. I am determined to ensure
that the necessary measures are in place by the time Ireland
summits it rejoinder to the ECJ on the 3rd of February.”
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