Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the (i) toxins; and (ii) naturally occurring compounds that NI Water test for when ensuring drinking water extracted from Lough Neagh is safe to be consumed.
Minister for Infrastructure: This is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
NI Water test against the parameters listed in the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations (NI) 2017. This is in addition to any further parameters considered to be present in raw water sources, through the Drinking Water Safety Plan for each source water and any additional parameters which are likely to be applied as a result of the Recast of the EU Drinking Water Directive.
NI Water has an existing, evidence-based system of treatment that is already designed with the potential for algae to be present; however, any new and emerging risks as advised by the NIEA will continue to inform and shape NI Water’s monitoring plans.
Should you have any further queries with regards this you can contact NI Water through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com. Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
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