Work is beginning on the construction of a new €60 million Uisce Éireann water and wastewater testing laboratory at Ballysimon in Limerick.
The facility will develop further the sampling and testing of water and wastewater from samples across Ireland, and is to be capable of testing over one million samples a year.
At least 90 people will be employed in the science and technical areas of the new national laboratory, which is expected to open in 2025.
The new laboratory and scientific and technical service will deliver a number of services including improving water quality data, regulatory compliance, increased transparency for the public and economic growth with the long term aim of protecting public health, the environment and safeguarding our water supply for the future.
Uisce Éireann says the national laboratory in Ballysimon will have education and research links with third level colleges.
The sod was turned at the new site today by Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with Responsibility for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O'Donnell who said: "Uisce Éireann is investing in the region of €60 million through this programme which will deliver the first dedicated National Water Laboratory for Ireland.
"The location of this national laboratory in Limerick City will enable Uisce Éireann to contribute to balancing economic growth across Ireland while creating high-quality technical career opportunities outside of Dublin.
"The new facility will have the capacity to analyse 1.2 million water and wastewater tests annually with operations expected to commence in 2025.
"It will build on the established capability and expertise nationally in the testing and sampling of water quality.
"The national laboratory will support the delivery of water and wastewater services across Ireland and protect public health and the environment through regulatory and operational compliance," Minister O'Donnell said.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Francis Foley, welcomed the significant investment in Limerick and the wider region.
"At a regional level, this national laboratory will generate high skilled employment opportunities, attracting graduates and experienced professionals to Limerick and the region, while from a national perspective it will support Ireland's need to continue to function as a growing economy."
Cáit Gleeson, Scientific Services Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: "The establishment of this scientific and technical service capability will enhance Uisce Éireann’s work in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring the delivery of clean, safe water through rigorous analysis.
"This facility will house state-of-the-art equipment for microbiological and chemical analysis which will be accredited to international quality standards.
"It is designed with a focus on swift customer service, energy efficiency and staff welfare and will be achieved in collaboration with our key stakeholders, including existing laboratory water services providers and staff who currently undertake sampling and/or testing for Uisce Éireann."
