Research Objectives

The Water Forum’s overarching research objective is:

To ensure all guidance concerning water quality and the management of water resources in Ireland, provided by the Forum is supported by the best available science; and where knowledge gaps exist, to carry out or commission research to support the delivery of the Strategic Plan.

This overarching objective is supported by three sub-objectives:

  1. To engage with stakeholders to identify research knowledge gaps and to assist in the delivery of research actions designed to support the Water Forum’s Strategic Plan.
  2. To develop and implement research actions to advance thinking and policy development related to water quality, water services, or the management of water resources
  3. To synthesize knowledge and research to advance communication and understanding between the scientific research community, policy

Communications Objectives

Communications Strategy 2023-2025

The overarching objectives are:

  1. Ensure the Forum policy positions and advice  regarding our water environment and water services is made available to government departments, relevant stakeholders and organisations.
  2. Develop opportunities for dialogue, engagement and dissemination of scientific research and recommendations to inform and influence actions and outcomes for the protection of Ireland’s water resources.
  3. Establish the Forum’s profile as the proactive and authoritative national stakeholder body informing on water policy, management and governance.
  4. Support  the implementation of the Strategic Plan 2022-2027, the Research Strategy and Education Strategy.
  5. Generate greater awareness and understanding of the value of water and advocate for capacity building to encourage water protection, conservation and future proofing.

Water Forum publishes its 2025 Annual Report

We are pleased to announce the publication of the Water Forum's 2025 Annual Report! The report reflects a busy and productive year for the Forum as Ireland's statutory stakeholder body

Water Forum Newsletter No. 23 Spring 2026

The Spring Newsletter showcases the Forum's latest research, policy engagement and stakeholder activities, with features on: New research examining the health of Ireland's transitional and coastal waters and the actions

World Water Day 2026

Most of what shapes our water is not visible. In laboratories, samples are tested and analysed — small vials carrying information about rivers, lakes and coasts. Behind each one is
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Awareness

Research