The Environmental Protection Agency's latest report is pointing the finger at agriculture and septic tanks.
The trend in water quality in the midlands is 'going in the wrong direction,' according to the EPA.
The Environmental Protection Agency's latest report has found water quality here isn't improving, with septic tanks and agriculture to blame.
Fertilisers and waste water are contributing to high nitrogen and phosphorus levels in rivers, lakes and ground waters.
Hugh Feeley, Scientific Officer in the Water Management Programme of the EPA, says they're seeing a net decline in Laois, Offaly and Westmeath:
IFA President, Ballinakill's Francie Gorman insists farmers are very focused on improving water quality:
'Only last week Teagasc’s launched a new campaign ‘Better Farming for Water’ and all farmers must play their part in this.
Our water quality is in a relatively good position compared to other EU countries.
However, there is a determined and robust approach across the whole sector to minimise the impact of food production on our waterways.
It’s about the right measures in the right places at the right time and the right rate, to ensure that nutrients are taken up by grass and crops. We are determined to reduce nutrient loss to deliver better water quality.'
Illegal Dumping Of Dead Calves In Westmeath Under Investigation
Midlands MEP Warns Of Loss To Farming Sector
2,400 Motorists Caught Speeding Over Bank Holiday Weekend
Gardaí Release Men Held Over Offaly Fire Bombing
Man Dies In Laois Collision
€114m Westmeath Wastewater Upgrade Complete
Mary O’Rourke Praised As “Hard Working” At Bridge Naming Ceremony
No Mini Budget Planned Despite Pressure Over Fuel And Energy Prices
Africa Day Celebrations Kick Off Across The Midlands
Tánaiste Hails ‘Proof’ Of Help to Buy Scheme Success Across The Midlands
Westmeath Woman Recounts Israeli Interception
Man Charged In Connection With Fatal Offaly House Fire
Mercosur Trade Deal Kicks Into Action Ahead Of European Court Ruling
Westmeath Woman "Deeply Ashamed" Of Spitting Incident
Taoiseach Pays Tribute To Mary O'Rourke At Bridge Dedication
Midlands Walking Club Celebrates 30th Anniversary This Weekend
OPW Minister Wants "Grown Ups" To Resolve Children's Science Museum Fallout
Offaly TD Criticises VAT Disparity For Beauty And Nail Salons
Laois Council Launches Clinics For Vacant Home Grants
Former Children's TV Presenter Revisits Midlands Towns On Nostalgic Journey