Residents see red over new pedestrian crossing 'danger'

By Declan Tierney

Galway County Council has begun controversial inspections of domestic septic tanks across South Connemara – which could end up costing householders up to €14,000 – as part of a crackdown on pollution.

The Connacht Tribune has learned that inspections have taken place in the Clifden and general South Connemara area, after the Council was told of several septic tanks that might be causing pollution to local water courses – many believe it heralds the start of a widespread campaign which is likely to generate €18 million for local authority coffers.

A spokesperson for Galway County Council said complaints have been received about septic tanks and whenever this occurs, inspections are carried out and a resolution is then agreed upon by the authority and the householder.

A number of meetings have already taken place around County Galway at which householders and farmers have expressed outrage over the possibility of having to pay a mandatory €300 for inspections to be carried out on their septic tanks – however, the general belief is that the charge would be much less than this.

There are also figures ranging from €5,000 to €14,000 to have septic tanks replaced and providing acceptable percolation areas around them.

County Galway IFA said that many people were not in a position to pay the inspection fee let alone the foot the bill for replacing septic tanks.

Connemara based Cllr Seamus Walsh said that nobody could tolerate a septic tank that was causing pollution but urged the County Council not to come “heavy handed” on householders by asking them to carry out works they could not afford.

But Michael Flynn, Chairman of County Galway IFA, claimed: “This is being done to boost the coffers of Galway County Council and also to discourage people from applying for planning permission in the countryside.”

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