The news that the quality of Northern Ireland's beaches is worsening has come as no surprise to clean water campaigners Surfers Against Sewage. The consequences of years of under-investment in sewerage infrastructure and inadequate sewage treatment are clearly impacting heavily.

Without investment in sewage treatment the surfers fear the situation will continue to worsen - with dire consequences for the health of water users, for the local economies of seaside resorts and ultimately for the pocket of the rate payer if Northern Ireland is fined by Europe for its failure to comply with European legislation.

There has been much discussion of late about water reform in Northern Ireland. The truth is that significant investment in water and sewerage treatment must be ploughed into the deteriorating system, but this will come at a cost to residents. Ministers are considering that a water rate be introduced in order to ensure European standards are met, water supplies are maintained and environmental quality is improved.

Vicky Garner, Surfers Against Sewage
"The coastline around Northern Ireland is stunning, we see a lot of similarities with Cornwall, long sandy beaches, excellent surfing conditions in places. To make the most of this resource, to capitalise on its potential to generate income, there must be investment in water and sewerage services. Provided it is done in the right way and customers are given value for money, with the best technology being used, investment now will pay off in the future"

"It is vitally important that any new system of financing the water industry in Northern Ireland takes account of ability to pay, it must be realistic. However, with sewers collapsing and water quality deteriorating there is urgent need for investment"

Angela Smith MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State recently issued a consultation document on the way forward for sewerage and water services in Northern Ireland. She estimates that over the next 20 years £3 billion will need to be invested. Residents of Northern Ireland are able to have their say as to how they feel the money should best be found and can contact the Water Reform Unit at the Department for Regional Development for copies of the document.

For further info contact Vicky or Richard on 0845 458 3001 or Mobile: 07817 01480.

Back