The Irish government has announced a new initiative to install drinking water fountains in public spaces across the country. This project, spearheaded by Ministers Ossian Smyth and Darragh O’Brien, aims to reduce the use of plastic bottles and provide easy access to clean drinking water.
The first phase will see free water fountains installed in libraries, with subsequent phases targeting beaches, parks, greenways, and other public areas. The initial rollout is set to be completed by the end of this year.
This effort aligns with the European Union’s Drinking Water Directive, which mandates the availability of drinking water to the public. Over the next few years, the government plans to install 350 fountains nationwide at a cost of 2 million euros.
Minister Smyth highlighted the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles, noting that five million are used daily in Ireland, often ending up littering roadsides, public areas, and beaches. By providing public water fountains, the government hopes to curb this plastic waste and promote a more sustainable and health-conscious lifestyle for its citizens.