Septic tank fines

THE state is facing a fine of €2.7 million and daily fines of more than €26,000 because, after 18 years, there is still no inspection system for the country’s 440,000 septic tanks.

Septic tanks used by buildings that are not linked up to municipal sewage systems can be faulty or leak over time, polluting drinking water and causing damage.

Environment Minister Phil Hogan said he was disappointed the European Commission decided to go to court as his department was doing all it could to comply with the law.