'Historic' Boyne Task Force bill to be debated in the Dáil

A bill aimed at protecting the future of the Boyne River will debated in the Dáil next week. 

Labour TD for Louth Ged Nash said action needs to be taken to combat the "deterioration" of the Boyne's water quality. 

"The EPA is not mincing its words when it says that the quality of the water in the Boyne and our rivers nationally is not good enough. We have to take action and fast," he said. 

Deputy Nash called for a review of all wastewater plants that operate along the Boyne and said the plants also need to need to be upgraded "at a minimum".

The Boyne Task Force Bill aims to co-ordinate efforts from four councils, government, Uisce Eireann as well as local landowners, NGOs and community activists.

The Louth TD said the future of watercourses have been further threatened by the extension of the derogation on the EU Nitrates Directive, which allows Ireland to exceed of livestock manure nitrogen that is applied to land. 

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"We need to look at the new reality of what exactly this river can handle
so that we do not destroy it."

“For too long we have turned our back on the River Boyne. Since
Drogheda’s foundation, the river was the very lifeblood of our community and we need to value it and protect it properly," he said. 

He said pollution and climate change are the result of neglect and confused management. 

Deputy Nash said he is honoured  to take the bill to the Second Stage in the Daíl. The bill will be debated in the Dáíl on January 22. 

The Boyne travels through counties Kildare, Offaly, Meath and Louth.