Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

On 1 March 2012 I published a consultation document which sets out the proposed standards for the operation and maintenance of septic tanks and other domestic waste water treatment systems. The consultation process will be open until Friday, 30 March and submissions can be made to my Department on the proposed standards before they are given legal effect. It is my intention, subject to the outcome of this consultation process, to include the standards in regulations to be made under the Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012.

My Department is in regular contact with the European Commission on the steps necessary to comply with the October 2009 European Court of Justice ruling against Ireland regarding domestic waste water from septic tanks and Ireland's obligations under the EU waste directive. A copy of the draft performance standards has been provided to the European Commission.

The Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012, together with the regulations I am proposing to make, are key measures to achieve compliance with the court ruling and to avoid the imposition of financial penalties by the court. The court is due to consider an application for the imposition of fines and penalties on this matter later this year.

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