Statutory Role

To advise the Minister in relation to Government water policy having regard to amongst other things, the following:

• water conservation
• rural water services
• the interests of the customers of Uisce Éireann (Irish Water)

To make recommendations to Uisce Éireann (Irish Water)

• in relation to the performance by Uisce Éireann in its functions, and
• when requested in writing in that behalf by Uisce Éireann, on any policy document prepared by Uisce Éireann

To advise and provide observation to the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU)

• in relation to the performance by Uisce Éireann in its functions, and
• when requested in writing in that behalf by Uisce Éireann, on any policy document prepared by Uisce Éireann.

To advise the Water Policy Advisory Committee (WPAC)

• in relation to any River Basin Management Plan and implementation of the plan
• on matters pertaining to the objectives of the EU Water Framework Directive
• on matters concerning the management of the inland aquatic environment and water resources

To examine such other water-related matters including carrying out research concerning those matters, as the Minister requests the Forum to examine and to advise the Minister accordingly.

We provide a platform for stakeholder engagement and dialogue on all matters relating to water as an environmental, economic and social asset.

• We build the capacity of our members to engage in the dialogue
• We build and maintain relationships
• We manage/bridge the tensions between primary interests and the common good
• We partner with key agencies to leverage expertise, insight, knowledge and research outputs
• We broker perspectives to explore the costs and benefits of competing interests

We provide a strong, independent voice on water quality, conservation and future proofing.

• We reflect a diversity of voices to form a composite position on policies, technical, governance and community solutions
• We gather intelligence, science and best practice through commissioned research and external input
• We make sense of and disseminate information through conferences, workshops and the media
• We explore futures thinking and aspire to drive transformational change

We act as an integral governance component in the management of Ireland’s water resources.

• We maintain effective relationships with Government Departments, Uisce Éireann (UÉ), Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), rural water services and with other relevant agencies and bodies
• We look to international best practice in water governance
• As part of the River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) governance structures, we raise emerging concerns in relation to its implementation and progress.

We develop strategic responses to water policy issues.

Determined by the priorities within the Water Framework Directive and the River Basin Management Plan:

• We develop policy submissions and positions based on research, external expertise, agency input and members dialogue
• We invest in a learning mindset to develop, change and integrate stakeholder perspectives
• We promote an integrated systems approach to water management and governance