The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for Ireland have issued their Drinking Water Quality in Public Supplies report for 2023. While the report is overall quite good, the EPA did note some issues which were still affecting water quality in many parts of Ireland.
The major issues affecting water quality were:
- Over half a million people drinking from “at risk” public water supplies
- Increased detections of Trihalomethanes (THMs) and cryptosporidium
- Boil water notices impacted 254,000 peoplee, an increase from last year
- Large numbers of lead pipe connections still found in Irish homes and properties
More work required to minimise exposure to THM’s
The EPA said greater effort is needed by Uisce Éireann (Irish Water) to implement improvements at supplies to minimise exposure to THM’s, including at major public water supplies like Limerick City and Kilkenny City.
Protecting public water from Cryptosporidium, Giardia and other parasiters
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that is found in animal waste and human waste. If present in drinking water, it can cause gastrointestinal problems and lead to persistent diarrhea, particularly in young children, sick people and the elderly. Uisce Éireann detected Cryptosporidium or Giardia in 20 supplies during 2023, up from 19 in 2022. Of the 20 supplies, 11 were placed on BWNs. There is again a strong clustering
of protozoan issues in the south of the country as seen in previous years. It is considered that this is attributable to a combination of the geology and the intensive farming practices (particularly dairying) carried out in the south.
If you are worried about dangerous bacteria such as Cryptosporidium or E-Coli lurking in your drinking water, a quality water filter from Red House Water Systems will provide you and your family with peace of mind knowing the water you are drinking is pure and safe. Make the decision to solve your water issues once and for all. Call Simon today at 085-736-6006. Alternatively please submit the Contact Form for more information.
