The National Federation of Group Water Schemes proudly honoured the exceptional contributions of Ireland’s rural water sector at the Rural Water Services Conference, held this week at the Clayton Hotel, Galway. Announced by the Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD the Group Water Scheme Excellence Awards ceremony was one of the highlights of the annual Conference, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, and water professionals from across the country.
With over 200,000 people served by group water schemes nationwide, the awards shine a spotlight on the innovation, resilience, and community spirit that define this vital sector. This year’s event saw a record number of entries, reflecting the growing momentum and pride within the movement
Each winning scheme received a commemorative plaque, with category champions awarded a handcrafted wooden trophy and the honour of flying the prestigious Flag of Excellence, a symbol of best practice and community commitment. Excellence Flags were also given on the day, to group water schemes who met and surpassed the standard set by the panel of independent judges.
In what was a joyful occasion and recognition of the efforts of all schemes, 35 flags were awarded across the four main categories.
The full list of winners below:
Water Safety Planning and Quality Assurance Implementation
Overall Winner: Kilmaley-Inagh Group Water Scheme, County Clare
In alphabetical order, the Excellence Flag recipients are:
- Aughnashalvey GWS, Monaghan
- Ballacolla GWS, Laois
- Dysart-Toonagh GWS, Clare
- Glaslough Tyholland GWS, Monaghan
- Glencorrib GWS, Galway
- Kilmaley-Inagh GWS, Clare
- Kiltiernan GWS, Galway
- Meath Hill GWS, Meath
Water Demand Management and Climate Action
Overall Winner: Tydavnet Group Water Scheme, County Monaghan
The Excellence Flag recipients are:
- Ballinagar GWS, Offaly
- Doohamlet GWS, Monaghan
- Eglish & Drumcullen (Rath) GWS, Offaly
- Glaslough Tyholland GWS, Monaghan
- Kilmaley-Inagh GWS, Clare
- Lough Cumnel (Killeen) GWS, Mayo
- Meath Hill GWS, Meath
- Milltown Community GWS, Galway
- PBKS GWS, Mayo
- Tydavnet GWS, Monaghan
- West Limerick GWS, Limerick
Biodiversity Enhancement
Overall Winner: Glaslough Tyholland Group Water Scheme, County Monaghan
The Excellence Flag recipients are:
- Corracreigh GWS, Roscommon
- Eglish & Drumcullen (Rath) GWS, Offaly
- Glaslough Tyholland GWS, Monaghan
- Tydavnet GWS, Monaghan
Community Engagement
Overall Winner: Doohamlet Group Water Scheme, County Monaghan
The Excellence Flag recipients are:
- Ballyellen GWS, Carlow
- Doohamlet GWS, Monaghan
- Dysart-Toonagh GWS, Clare
- Gallagh GWS, Galway
- Kilmovee Urlaur GWS, Mayo
- Kilsherdany GWS, Cavan
- Meath Hill GWS, Meath
- Midfield GWS, Mayo
- Milltown Community GWS, Galway
- Polecat Springs GWS, Roscommon
- Sliabh An Iarainn GWS, Leitrim
- Mullins Parish GWS, Carlow
- Stranooden GWS, Monaghan
Introducing the GWS Ethos and Volunteerism Award
In a heartfelt addition to this year’s programme, the newly launched GWS Ethos and Volunteerism Special Recognition Award was bestowed for the extraordinary efforts of volunteers and staff, particularly in response to the widespread disruption caused by Storm Eowyn earlier this year. This special award celebrates the values that underpin the group water scheme movement: service, solidarity, and sustainability.
Group water schemes honoured under this category include:
Ballinguyroe & Tankardstown GWS, Ballyduff GWS, Ballyellen GWS, Belcarra GWS, Brackloon GWS, Bulgaden GWS, Cappataggle District GWS, Carnane GWS, Derrynaseera GWS, Dysart-Toonagh GWS, Eglish & Drumcullen (Rath) GWS, Glinsk Creggs GWS, Kilcoona/Caherlistrane GWS, Kilkenny West GWS, Killaturley GWS, Kilsherdany GWS, Milltown Community GWS.
A Celebration of Rural Resilience
Speaking at the event, NFGWS CEO Mark Farrelly commended the awardees:
The group water schemes and their dedicated volunteers form the backbone of rural water provision in Ireland. Their impact extends far beyond infrastructure — it is rooted in people, place, and purpose. Today’s event showcased the exceptional and often unseen work being carried out by these schemes, reflecting a deep commitment to community and service. These awards are not only a celebration of technical excellence, but a vital recognition of the spirit of volunteerism and the unique community-driven ethos that defines the GWS model. Highlighting and honouring this work is essential to ensuring its value is understood, appreciated, and sustained.
Looking Ahead
As the sector continues to evolve in response to climate challenges and regulatory change, the Excellence Awards reaffirm the importance of local leadership and innovation. The NFGWS encourages all schemes to build on this momentum and continue striving for excellence in service delivery and environmental stewardship.
If your group water scheme would like to get involved in the 2026 awards or would like more information on this year's winners, please contact your nearest NFGWS Development Officer.
