Irish Rural Link highlights crunch time for septic tank owners

With the one-month consultation period now open, Environment Minister Phil Hogan has published the consultation document discussing the septic tank regulations.The document sets out in full the details of what his department proposes to include in standards for the operation and maintenance of septic tanks and other waste water treatment systems.The document was drafted in consultation with officials from the Environmental Protection Agency and local authorities.Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link, says: "There is a huge amount of anxiety and worry in rural communities regarding septic tanks and this crucial one-month consultation period is to facilitate the public to make submissions on the septic tank regulation guidelines."Submissions are being welcomed on the document and Irish Rural Link will undertake a number of information evenings in Westmeath to assist the public in understanding the draft standards and to assist with making submissions."The consultation document available here: http://www.environ.ie/en/Environment/Water/WaterServices/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,29546,en.pdf.The deadline for submissions to the Department of the Environment from the public is 4pm on Friday March 30.Irish Rural Link information evenings in Westmeath:Tuesday March 13 Streete Sports Complex 8-9.30pmWednesday March 14 Rosemount GAA Sports complex 8.30-10pmThursday March 15 Tang Community Centre 8-9.30pm