Dáil hears of water infrastructure failings in Dundalk and North Louth
Erin McGreehan highlighted brown water and overcapacity treatment plants
Serious concerns about water infrastructure in Dundalk and north Louth were raised in the Dáil this week by Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan. Addressing Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, Deputy McGreehan highlighted ongoing issues with brown water, inadequate wastewater treatment, and pollution along the local coastline.
“We have huge deficits when it comes to water infrastructure,” she said. “Wastewater treatment plants are over capacity and are not working to purpose.” She noted that residents in Dundalk and across north Louth frequently experience discoloured tap water, to the extent that clothes come out dirtier after being washed.
“After years of engaging with Uisce Éireann in good faith, we are getting nowhere as public representatives in County Louth,” she said.
McGreehan also pointed to environmental problems, including reports of toilet paper and other waste being discharged into Carlingford Lough and Dundalk Bay. She said that bathing in Blackrock is currently unsafe and described the situation as a crisis. According to McGreehan, the ongoing issues are hindering progress on housing development in the region.
Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, responded by acknowledging the problem. He said that investment in Uisce Éireann will be a priority in the next National Development Plan, both to improve water quality and to support housing supply.
He said that funding for wastewater treatment would be ring-fenced, but also mentioned that legal objections and planning appeals often delay the development of new treatment facilities. “These plants substantially enhance the environment and clean the water,” he said, “but their advancement is significantly slowed down by challenges at multiple levels.”