In 2025, Ireland’s local authorities continued to protect the environment, carrying out over 252,000 environmental inspections.
Additionally, they responded to about 85,000 environmental complaints and took 23,550 enforcement actions.
Moreover, the year also saw 386 prosecutions initiated, supporting robust compliance and Workplace Safety.
Environmental enforcement findings and key NEPs
The figures are highlighted in the EPA’s latest report on environmental enforcement for Ireland’s 31 local authorities. Moreover, the assessment covers NEPs such as waste management, water quality, air pollution and noise control, linking to Workplace Safety.
According to the EPA, most local authorities performed strongly. 83% of assessments were rated ‘strong’ or ‘excellent’. Three local authorities, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Galway City Council and South Dublin County Council, achieved the required standard. Additionally, they did so across all National Enforcement Priorities. In contrast, Leitrim and Sligo County Councils fell short in several priority areas.
Moreover, Dr Tom Ryan, Director of EPA’s Office of Environmental Enforcement, acknowledged authorities’ important role in safeguarding communities and environment. He noted that most councils demonstrated strong overall enforcement performance during 2025, with improvements recorded in several key areas through increased inspection and enforcement activity.
However, the report also identifies areas requiring greater attention and more consistent enforcement. These include waste segregation practices, discharges to watercourses and transport-related noise.
The report reveals that local authorities employ 668 environmental enforcement staff who oversee approximately 10,700 licences for Workplace Safety. Enforcement activity is measured against 15 National Enforcement Priorities.
Additionally, Waste-related priorities include illegal waste activity, construction and demolition waste, household waste, commercial waste and plastics. Water-related priorities cover slurry, soiled water and fertiliser management, as well as local water supplies.
The full EPA report is available to download: https://tinyurl.com/mrdpkzzp
