New EPA online portal will provide greater transparency and easier public access

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched the first phase of a major new Online service, the Licensing and Enforcement Access Portal or LEAP Online, which will allow the public to view the enforcement activities, actions and communications between the EPA and holders of EPA licences and permits.

The public will be able to view this information on the EPA website via desktop, tablet and mobile phone.

The release of LEAP Online is part of the EPA’s ongoing work to continuously improve public access to the information it holds. Over the years, the EPA has progressively delivered improved access to information about its licensing and enforcement activities.

The Phase 1 will provide access to EPA site inspection and monitoring reports, as well as “Licensee Returns” submitted by operators. These are the main types of notifications that operators must send to demonstrate ongoing compliance with licence conditions, and include monitoring reports, site updates, requests for approval and responses to EPA instructions and Corrective Actions. It also includes Licensee Public Responses to EPA Site Visit Reports – the operators’ Right to Reply to EPA findings, and the Annual Environmental Report which summarises the operators’ compliance each year.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Commenting on the launch of LEAP Online, Darragh Page, EPA Programme Manager said:

“As Ireland’s environmental regulator, we recognise the importance of keeping the public informed about the activities we regulate, and enabling people to participate in environmental decision-making.

“The launch of LEAP Online will give the public even more access to detailed, timely information on how major industry, waste management, users of radiological materials, drinking water and sanitary services comply with their regulatory requirements. This in turn will contribute to promoting informed public discussion about achieving sustainable development into the future, while protecting Ireland’s environment and the health of our citizens.”

PHASE 2

Phase 2 is scheduled for later in 2023, and will include information on the rest of the EPA’s regulatory correspondence, including details of incidents, complaints summaries, non-compliances and details of compliance investigations.

(Photo: Ita West) Teachers Claire Birmingham and Kevin O’Leary presenting Matthew McGrath with the specially prepared booklet, containing photographs and text of his time in Scoil Pol.

(Photo: Ita West) Teacher Kevin O’Leary (2nd from left) with Matthew’s father Joe and his mother Kim, congratulating Matthew at the graduation event.