What are the most important issues affecting drinking water quality in public water supplies?

The EPA has identified the most important issues, which should be addressed on a national level, to protect and improve drinking water supplies. These are the national priorities for public drinking water supplies: 

  • Keeping water free of harmful bacteria (disinfection) 
  • Minimising harmful disinfection by-products 
  • Eliminating lead from pipework 
  • Preventing pesticides from entering our waters 
  • Managing risks to water supplies 
  • Ensuring all water treatment plants are effective

Have you a private water supply?

Where does our water come from? Depending on where you live, your water supply either comes from a public water supply operated by Irish Water, or a private water supply such as group water schemes or your own household well.  Browse through our environment and you section to read more about drinking water.

Browse by Drinking water

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Environmental Data Exchange Network (EDEN)

EDEN is the EPA's online web portal for Local Authorities and licensees to communicate with the EPA on numerous applications.

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EDEN-MDS Webinar

Webinar for local authorities on the submission of the annual drinking water returns to the EPA. We have also produced the guidance note linked below for local authorities to assist with submitting annual drinking water returns.

Latest publications in Drinking water

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Drinking Water Quality in Private Group Schemes and Small Private Supplies

2022

This report provides an overview of the quality of drinking water in private group schemes and small private supplies.

Latest News and Press Releases

in: Drinking water
“Urgent action needed to improve private drinking water quality”, says EPA.

Date released: October 19, 2023

The EPA today released the Drinking Water Quality in Private Group Schemes and Small Private Supplies 2022 report. Drinking water is provided to approximately 200,000 people across rural communities in Ireland, by over 380 group water schemes.

Drinking water quality remains high but resilience of many supplies needs to improve, says EPA.

Date released: July 31, 2023

The EPA Drinking Water Quality in Public Supplies Report 2022 (insert link) released today, shows that over 99.7% of public water supplies comply with bacterial and chemical limits, which means our public water is safe to drink. 

Drinking water quality is high but increased vigilance is needed by Irish Water and Local Authorities to protect public health, says EPA.

Date released: October 06, 2022

The EPA Drinking Water Quality in Public Supplies Report 2021 released today, shows that the quality of drinking water in public supplies remains high, with over 99.7% compliance with bacterial and chemical limits.