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.

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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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Latest publications in Drinking water

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Drinking Water Quality in Private Group Schemes and Small Private Supplies

2021

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
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.

E. coli found in 1 in 20 private water supplies, says EPA.

Date released: February 21, 2022

The EPA today released the Drinking Water Quality in Private Group Schemes and Small Private Supplies 2020 report.

Vulnerability of Ireland’s drinking water supplies must be urgently addressed by Irish Water, says EPA

Date released: December 14, 2021

The EPA Drinking Water Quality in Public Supplies Report 2020 released today, shows that the quality of drinking water in public supplies remains high, with over 99.7% compliance with bacterial and chemical limits. The continued high levels of water quality being achieved are positive for consumers and indicate that the water is safe to drink. However, improvements are needed in our drinking water infrastructure to protect public health. Delays in the delivery of these improvements at water treatment plants by Irish Water means that water supplies remain vulnerable for longer, posing a risk to the health of a large portion of the population.