Healthy waters support vibrant communities

A new initiative aimed at developing links between local waterways and communities was presented to the Dundalk Municipal Committee.

Representatives of the Local Authority Waters and Community Office (LAWCO) told how water is an essential component in building thriving communities.

LAWCO was established by local authorities to ‘promote public awareness, participation and knowledge’

Bernie O’Flaherty explained how vital our local waters are to the vibrancy of communities.

‘Access to good quality schools and hospitals is important, as these can help improve the overall quality of life for local communities. In the same way living in a catchment area that has healthy waters can also improve the quality of life for those who live there.’

Members heard that healthy waters provide so many essential ecosystem services that are can be taken for granted such as : high quality drinking water; supply to industries like agriculture; recreational activities like angling and water sports.

‘Water is an essential component in building thriving communities and society, supporting wildlife habitats so that plants, animals, fish and insects can survive and flourish.’

Ms. O’Flaherty explained that eight community meetings are planned in the border counties.

She said that the LAWCO office were also planning to work with DkIT to develop projects around water quality and catchment.

Committee Chairman, Cllr. Mark Dearey welcomed the work being done, saying ‘it is very encouraging to see people doing some incredible work.’

Cllr. Maeve Yore asked about pollution concerns, which anglers had raised.

These were the issues which could be raised at community meetings.