The deadline for submissions regarding views on the draft river basin management plan is this Thursday, 31 March, 2022. The scheme, which will run from 2022 to 2027, is intended to help improve the country’s water environment.
Sustainable management of Ireland’s natural waters and the protection of freshwater resources to maintain the country’s water environment are key elements.
The draft river basin management plan suggests that a 50% cut in nitrogen losses to groundwater, increased water quality inspections, and 20,000ha of organic soil rewetting are all required needed to enhance water quality.
Measures also include a reduction or elimination of pollution from farms, and cutting out breaches of pesticide standards in drinking water supplies. This would assist in stopping in-stream habitat damage arising from land and river channel drainage. The plan ties into the nitrates action programme, and the next CAP and was produced in line with the EU water framework directive.
Submissions, observations or comments on the proposed plan have to be received by the cut-off date this Thursday.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage urges people to respond, as “you will be helping to shape the overall management of Ireland’s water environment. The information gathered will help us prepare for the next cycle of river basin management plans.”
To make your voice heard, complete the form here.