In 2023, nearly half of all septic tanks tested in Ireland failed inspections, posing significant risks to human health and the environment, according to a report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The EPA highlighted that local authorities need to improve enforcement to ensure faulty septic tanks are fixed promptly. The report revealed that out of 1,189 septic tank inspections conducted, 45% failed due to reasons such as poor maintenance, lack of de-sludging, effluent discharge into water sources, leaks, and effluent ponding.
Despite advisory notices issued to householders, the EPA found that there were still 576 unresolved cases dating back two years, indicating inconsistent enforcement practices in certain areas like Waterford, Roscommon, and Kilkenny.
To address these issues, the government introduced an enhanced grant scheme in 2024 to assist with septic tank repairs. The grant amount was increased from €5,000 to €12,000 to encourage homeowners to rectify faulty systems.
EPA Programme Manager Noel Byrne stressed the importance of local authorities utilizing their enforcement powers to protect the environment and public health by ensuring failed septic tanks are promptly fixed.
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