David Healy, Chair of Fingal Environment Strategic Policy Committee
(SPC) today welcomed the publication for public consultation of draft
Bye-laws for septic tanks and other domestic sewage treatment systems. Cllr. Healy who is a Green Party Councillor for the Howth/Malahide Area said:

" These bye-laws have been approved by the Environment SPC for public consultation as an important step towards clean water in our rivers and streams. Inadequate servicing and maintenance of septic tanks and associated soakaway systems is leading to water pollution in many parts of the county.  Areas with a high density of septic tanks have particular problems.  Often householders are unaware of their responsibilities and the requirements to effectively maintain septic tanks.  The bye-laws will require householders to ensure their septic tanks are working properly.

"Under the Water Framework Directive, Ireland and all local authorities are required to achieve good water quality by 2015. Dealing with overflowing and misfunctioning septic tanks is an essential part of this process and will enable Ireland to avoid being fined by the EU.

"In addition, it is much more cost-effective to prevent pollution than clean it up so we can expect these bye-laws to save money in the long run."

The consultation period runs until 20th March.

The text of the draft bye-laws is here.