Have your say on water plan
Uisce Éireann has begun consultating the public on the draft Water Services Strategic Plan 2050 (WSSP 2050). The draft WSSP 2050 is Uisce Éireann’s long-term strategic plan which is required to be prepared under the Water Services No 2 Act 2013. The plan outlines the strategic direction and the actions the utility will implement to ensure sustainable public water services for Ireland. Once approved by the Minister, it will replace the existing WSSP from 2015, which covered the period from 2015 to 2040.
The draft WSSP 2050 has been subjected to Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) in accordance with the European Union (EU) SEA Directive (2001/42/EC) and Appropriate Assessment (under the EU Habitats Directive) and these documents are also published for review on Uisce Éireann’s website (www.water.ie) as part of this consultation.
Providing safe, secure and sustainable water services is vital for society, to protect public health, support the delivery of housing and jobs, and to protect the environment and precious water resources. Uisce Éireann has a vital job to do and many challenges and opportunities as we look ahead to 2050. This 25-year strategy, the Water Services Strategic Plan 2050 is one of a suite of plans and policy documents guiding the delivery of water and wastewater services in Ireland.
This public consultation presents an opportunity for everyone to engage with Uisce Éireann in the development of our 25 year strategy for the delivery of water services in Ireland. As well as gathering feedback related to the draft WSSP 2050 the results of this public consultation will provide an insight into attitudes towards public water and wastewater services and the challenges we face now and into the future.
Sean Laffey, Head of Asset Management with Uisce Éireann, commented: “We operate in a rapidly changing global environment that will bring enormous challenges for the delivery of water services including climate change, population and economic growth, environmental and biodiversity crisis, legislation, regulation and policy changes, economic conditions and aging infrastructure.
“Strong partnerships underpin our approach to planning for the future, with the aim of delivering mutual benefits and value. Through the delivery of our draft WSSP 2050, we will build on the legacy of our local authority water services heritage, working with our customers, communities, and stakeholders to enhance our shared environment and support social and economic development.We aim to lead by example and embrace research.”
Uisce Éireann is now seeking feedback on the draft WSSP 2050 and associated environmental reports; the SEA Environmental Report and the Natura Impact Statement. All documents are available to view and download from www.water.ie/wssp.
HOW TO TAKE PART
Stakeholders can avail of two options to assist them to make a submission on the draft WSSP 2050 and are welcome to choose one or both options when making a submission.
Option 1: Complete an online survey.
Option 2: Provide feedback on suggested consultation questions.
Submissions can be made up to the closing date of the consultation period, by email or post to:
Email: wssp@water.ie
Post: Water Services Strategic Plan, Uisce Éireann, PO Box 13216, Glenageary, Co Dublin.