Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I want to ask the Taoiseach a question on the programme for Government commitment on environmental protection. As he will know, the Ringsend wastewater treatment plant treats approximately 40% of public wastewater. It has been operating over capacity for some time and it is not now compliant with national and EU environmental regulations. The most recent EPA report states we are not addressing the deficiencies in wastewater treatment infrastructure at a fast enough pace and that our health is at risk.

Half of our waste discharges do not meet pollution and health standards. Untreated sewage is being pumped into our seas and wastewater in 38 towns and villages across the country. What is the Government going to do to address these genuine inadequacies in wastewater treatment? When can we have a solution for the wastewater treatment plant in Ringsend and the problems in the 38 towns?

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