Retrofit scheme proposed to ward off €2.7m in fines

FARMERS have recommended a retrofit scheme, and use of integrated, constructed wetlands, to head off the threat of European Court of Justice fines of a €2.7m lump-sum and 26,173 per day, because of delays in setting up a septic-tank inspection system.

There are 400,000 septic tanks in Ireland, some poorly-designed or badly-maintained and putting health at risk by polluting groundwater. In 2009, the court ordered Ireland to introduce adequate inspections of septic tanks.

To date, there is no legislation to provide for regular inspections that ensure householders abide by manufacturers’ stipulations. Environment Minister Phil Hogan said: “Achieving compliance with the ECJ ruling is a high priority for my department and for the Government. Due to a lack of political will from the previous administration, since October, 2009, the ECJ ruling found that Ireland had failed to make adequate legislation for dealing with domestic waste water from septic tanks, and other on-site waste water treatment systems. This Government recently approved the urgent drafting and publication of the necessary legislation. My aim is to have the legislation considered, and enacted, by the Oireachtas without delay.”