New water conservation regulations signed

New water conservation regulations have been signed today by the Minister for the Environment John Gormley.

The Minister this morning signed an order and regulations bringing into effect Section 56 of the Water Services Act 2007, which applies in situations where leakage occurs due to unrepaired pipes or equipment or where poor management results in wastage or excessive consumption of water.

The new regulations also apply where shortages of water necessitate action to conserve water supplies.

With the commencement of Section 56, local authorities may issue notices specifying which action is to be taken to prevent wastage or excessive consumption of water.

Although normally intended to deal with specific problems in individual premises, the notices may also be issued to businesses. Such orders can include prohibition or restricions on watering gardens and washing gardens.

Provision is also included for community-wide application of water restrictions in times of water shortages.

Penalties including on-the-spot fines are in place for non-compliance with any order issued under the new regulations.