Sixty-one schools across Waterford have been included in a new national water conservation plan.
Government funds will be allocated for the installation of water displacement devices, percussion spray taps, thermostatic mixing valves and other water controls.
In total, €9.75 million will be spent around the country to reduce the amount of water currently being used by primary and post-primary schools.
Over €93,000 has also been allocated to Waterford County Council for work on public water supplies that have been identified as being in need of remedial action.
The schemes which will receive funding have been identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as having potential issues regarding the safety and security of supply.
Specific work which will be targeted with the funding includes the upgrading of disinfection facilities, improvement of connections to alternative water sources and provision of chlorine and turbidity monitors and dial-out alarms to warn of treatment plant malfunctions.
Deputy Brendan Kenneally has welcomed the investment.
“The quality of drinking water in Waterford is generally very good,” he said.
“However, I am delighted to see the Minister make this significant amount of funding available to the county council to ensure there is a safe and secure supply for the future. This is an important investment for Waterford and will continue to improve drinking water standards.”
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