There are 180,000 private wells in Ireland, used by families and communities, serving 800,000 people almost half of the rural population. Nearly 97% of wells are co-located with septic tanks (domestic wastewater treatment systems) that, along with poor agricultural practice, can pose a contamination risk.
Pathogens from human and animal waste transmitted to groundwater can cause waterborne illness. The notification rate of such an infection, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is 10 times higher in Ireland than the rest of Europe.
The research has compared International practice and supports provided to well owners to see what learnings can be applied in Ireland. The report outlines a number of recommendations and based on these the Forum has made a submission to the Department with recommendations for communications and supports to private well owners.
The Water Forum recognises the need for these supports as a public health measure. A national well testing programme to encourage testing and identify contamination risks is needed. The well testing scheme should be free and voluntary for well owners.
The Forum strongly supports the need for improved knowledge and awareness on the public health risk of contaminated well water, and the need for regular testing and well maintenance.
Therefore as a first step, there should be an awareness campaign targeted at private well owners so that they are informed about the risks and the actions they can take to protect well users.
Research Report: Private Well Policy Recommendations to Improve Supports and Communications
