Raw sewage flowing into the sea at Bray and Greystones raise very serious concerns
Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has expressed serious concern about ongoing issues regarding sewage treatment plants in Wicklow. He said that there are issues with raw sewage flowing in the sea at North Beach in Bray which he has made a complaint to the EPA about. There are also major issues in Greystones and ongoing issues with the treatment plant at the Murrough in Wicklow Town. Brady has called for an immediate survey and investigation of all the treatment plants in Wicklow to ensure that every plant meets the highest operational standards, that all critical maintenance work is up to date, and that the infrastructure is robust enough to meet the demands of the growing population.
“I am extremely concerned about the alarming issues surrounding sewage treatment facilities in the county, particularly in Bray, Greystones, and at the Murrough in Wicklow Town. These failures not only pose serious risks to public health and the environment but also significantly impact the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Immediate and decisive action is essential.
The recent malfunction at the Rathdown sewage treatment plant in Greystones is deeply troubling. The release of raw sewage directly into the sea, just south of Greystones Harbour, is causing severe pollution in our marine environment. This incident is unacceptable and has highlighted significant failings in the infrastructure, it is estimated that the plant could be out of operation for up to two weeks. This has caused a serious deterioration in the water quality and a no swim notice has been put in place.
Greystones South Beach is currently a Blue Flag beach, and I am extremely concerned about the impact serious incidents like this have on the awarding of one of the world’s most recognized awards for beaches.
This issue follows a recent unauthorised discharge by Uisce Éireann from the Priory Road pumping station into the Three Trouts Stream in Delgany.
In Bray, the situation at the North Beach is equally distressing. Raw sewage has been flowing onto the beach over the Christmas period, a problem that has likely persisted for much longer. This is not just an environmental disaster but a public health crisis. It also severely undermines Bray’s reputation as a key coastal destination, deterring visitors and impacting the local economy.
At the Murrough in Wicklow Town, residents and visitors are continuing to suffer due to the persistent and overpowering odours coming from the sewage treatment plant. These foul smells are making the area uninhabitable for nearby residents and unpleasant for those who want to use the area recreationally. It is unacceptable that this issue has been allowed to persist for so long without resolution.
I have made formal complaints to Uisce Éireann and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about the serious incidents. While I am in direct contact with both organisations, I am demanding immediate action to resolve these crises.
However, the issues in Wicklow highlight a broader problem. I am calling for an urgent investigation into all sewage treatment facilities in the county. This review must ensure that every plant meets the highest operational standards, that all critical maintenance work is up to date, and that the infrastructure is robust enough to meet the demands of the growing population.
The people of Wicklow deserve better. Safe, modern, and efficient sewage treatment systems are essential to protect public health, preserve our environment, and safeguard the beauty of our county. Anything less is unacceptable, and I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure these issues are addressed.” Ends