An exciting and significant cross-border project is showcasing the potential for community-led water quality efforts across the island of Ireland. Following collaboration with Monaghan County Council and Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council, Tydavnet Group Water Scheme (TGWS) has secured substantial PEACE+ funding, allocated to the Scotstown Blue Dot River Project. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance water quality in the Scotstown River, a vital resource for the local community and environment.
The Importance of the Scotstown River
The Scotstown River holds a unique status as a 'blue dot' waterway, a designation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that highlights its high-quality water status. This distinction is not only a source of pride for County Monaghan but also underscores the critical need for continued protection and improvement efforts. The river's health is integral to the well-being of local farmers, householders, and the broader ecosystem. Tydavnet GWS has four of its existing deep production wells located within the Scotstown river catchment, so its importance is critical to raw water quality for the GWS.
PEACE+ Funding: A Catalyst for Positive Change
Upwards of €500,000 in funding under the PEACE+ programme has been allocated to the initiative. TGWS manager, Seán Clerkin, explained that the cross-border project, which will span three years, aims to address vulnerable stretches of the Scotstown River through remedial source protection works. The funding follows a comprehensive consultancy report led by TGWS in partnership with Monaghan County Council and ABC Borough Council.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
The success of this project hinges on the active participation and consent of Tydavnet GWS members. Gerard Meehan, TGWS chairperson, has expressed confidence in the community's willingness to support the proposed nature-based works. Gerard Meehan TGWS chairperson stated:
This is just fantastic news for our water scheme, for the farmers and householders in the Scotstown river catchment area and for the river itself. It comes on top of €40,000 funding that has already been approved by the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) for Tydavnet GWS to develop a plan as a first step towards restoration of the bogland above our lake source (Lough Antrawer), which is a major part of the headwaters of the Scotstown River.
The involvement of various stakeholders, including Teagasc, Acres, IFI, IFA, and ICMSA, has been instrumental and ensuring the project's alignment with broader environmental goals.
The Scotstown Blue Dot River Project is not an isolated effort but part of a larger strategy to protect and enhance water sources across the region. The funding from the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) for the restoration of bogland above Lough Antrawer, a major headwater of the Scotstown River, further exemplifies the integrated approach to water management. By safeguarding these critical areas, the project aims to reduce the costs associated with water treatment.
Mark Farrelly, CEO of the NFGWS was full of praise for the announcement:
We are delighted with the announcement of PEACE+ funding for the Scotstown Blue Dot River Project. This funding will significantly benefit Tydavnet GWS members by ensuring the continued high quality of their water supply. The collaborative efforts of TGWS, Monaghan County Council, and ABC Borough Council are commendable, and we look forward to the positive impact this project will have on the community and environment.
